Sicily , Italy

Aperitivo on Monte Gallo with a Hermit

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2h - 3h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Sicilian Experience: An Unforgettable Aperitivo on Monte Gallo

Enjoy an aperitivo on one of Palermo's most beautiful mountains, in a Bourbon-era building covered in mosaics, accompanied by a fascinating hermit.

Savor two bottles of wine or a refreshing spritz, with delicious local snacks, in a stunning spot. But beware: you'll have to earn it with a one-hour hike. ‍ We'll climb Monte Gallo, gaining about 500 meters, and I'll share the story of Isravele, the hermit of the semaphore station, along with facts about the nature reserve.

We'll explore the Capo Gallo Nature Reserve, admiring views of the Gulf of Mondello, Palermo, Monte Pellegrino, Isola delle Femmine, and Punta Raisi. At the top, a sanctuary surrounded by greenery and the sea awaits. ️

The trail is of low to medium difficulty, so wear walking or trekking shoes.

Available options

Capogallo Lighthouse

Capogallo Lighthouse: Prefer a more relaxed hike? Opt for our easy trail to the Capo Gallo Lighthouse

Monte Gallo with its Hermit

Monte Pellegrino&Santa Rosalia

What's included

Soda/Pop

Wine, Beer, Aperol Spritz, etc. Important Note: Alcoholic beverages will be served only to travelers 18 years old and above. Minor travelers will be served non-alcoholic drinks.

Guide

Aperitivo with Local Gastronomy

Detailed itinerary

The Hermit's Semaphore, as the Monte Gallo semaphore is known, sits atop the Capo Gallo Nature Reserve in Palermo. Built during the Bourbon era, its prominence has grown significantly in the past decade.

True to its name, the semaphore is not uninhabited: residing within is a man named Nino, who adopted the moniker Isravele and embraced a hermit's life.

Isravele christened the semaphore "God's Lighthouse" and dubbed the path leading to it "Holy Way." He meticulously refurbished the structure, adorning it with mosaics crafted from glass fragments, bottles, and shells. Beyond mere aesthetics, his work is a homage to God and His creation.

Isravele's intention is to establish a true sanctuary where souls may commune with God. Religious inscriptions and depictions adorn the interior, with the six-pointed star, a symbol of Judaism, omnipresent.

Stop 2

The reserve encompasses Monte Gallo, a limestone massif formed tens of millions of years ago. Rising to a promontory named Capo Gallo, a lighthouse stands atop it to signify its position. Situated in Palermo's northwest, this promontory divides the Mondello and Sferracavallo bays, which are home to the city's coastal neighborhoods. Monte Gallo is encircled by steep cliffs, except for its southern slope towards Mondello, where the Vallone del Bauso Rosso is found. This area is notable for the ancient Bourbon Semaphore, a 19th-century lookout post of the Royal Navy of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, now inhabited by the hermit Isravele. He has embellished the structure with sacred mosaics, transforming it into his sanctuary.

Stop 3 Pass by

Mondello Bay, seen from above, showcases its stunning turquoise waters and golden sands. Nestled between lush hillsides, this picturesque coastal stretch near Palermo is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. The bay's vibrant seaside atmosphere, dotted with charming cafes and restaurants, invites you to relax and soak in the breathtaking views.

Isola delle Femmine, seen from the cliffs, offers a breathtaking view of its pristine waters and natural landscapes. This coastal gem near Palermo is renowned for its unspoiled beaches and the small island offshore, which is a protected nature reserve. The area is a haven for wildlife, with diverse marine life and bird species making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Its serene environment and natural beauty provide a perfect escape for those looking to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the great outdoors.

What's not included

Private transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Important Note: Alcoholic beverages will be served only to travelers 18 years old and above. Minor travelers will be served non-alcoholic drinks.

Meeting point

At the end of Via Del Semaforo, where Via Grotte di Partanna begins, you'll find a green gate. Look for me there with my car, marked with the Sicilian Vibes logo.

About Sicily

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its rich Greek and Roman heritage, stunning landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine, Sicily offers a unique travel experience that captivates visitors with its diverse attractions and warm hospitality.

Top Attractions

Valley of the Temples

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring some of the most well-preserved ancient Greek temples outside of Greece. The site is a testament to Sicily's rich Greek heritage and offers a glimpse into the island's ancient past.

Historical 2-3 hours €10

Mount Etna

Europe's highest and most active volcano, offering stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and the opportunity to witness volcanic activity up close. Mount Etna is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Nature Half day to full day €30-€100 (depending on the tour and activities)

Palermo Cathedral

A stunning example of Norman-Arab-Byzantine architecture, Palermo Cathedral is a masterpiece of religious art and history. The cathedral's interior is adorned with beautiful mosaics, sculptures, and tombs of notable historical figures.

Architectural 1-2 hours €7

Taormina

A charming hilltop town known for its stunning views of the Ionian Sea and the iconic Greek Theatre. Taormina is a popular tourist destination offering a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Cultural Half day to full day Free to explore, €10 for the Greek Theatre

Cefalù

A picturesque coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and charming medieval streets. Cefalù is a popular destination for both relaxation and cultural exploration.

Beach Half day to full day Free to explore, €5 for La Rocca

Must-Try Local Dishes

Arancini

Fried rice balls filled with ragù, mozzarella, and peas, often shaped like small oranges.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Cannoli

Crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cheese, often garnished with pistachios or chocolate chips.

Dessert Contains dairy and gluten

Pasta alla Norma

Pasta with a sauce made from tomatoes, fried eggplant, ricotta cheese, and basil.

Main Course Vegetarian

Granita

A semi-frozen dessert made from sugar, water, and various flavors, typically served with a brioche for breakfast.

Dessert Vegan and gluten-free options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Madonie Regional Park Volcano trekking on Mount Etna Beach lounging in Cefalù Spa treatments in Taormina Visiting the Valley of the Temples Exploring the historic center of Palermo Snorkeling and diving in the Aeolian Islands Boat tours along the coast

Best Time to Visit

May to June, September to October

The peak seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and ideal conditions for exploring Sicily's attractions. The sea is warm enough for swimming, and the countryside is lush and green.

20-28°C 68-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: Sicilian, English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some areas requiring caution

Sicily is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and scams can occur in tourist areas, and some regions may have higher crime rates.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps, and insist on using the meter or agreeing on a price before starting your journey.
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions, distractions, or overly friendly advances.

Getting there

By air

Palermo Airport • 32 km (20 miles) from Palermo city center
Catania-Fontanarossa Airport • 7 km (4.3 miles) from Catania city center

By train

Palermo Centrale, Catania Centrale

By bus

Palermo Bus Terminal, Catania Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Sicily, with regular services connecting major cities and towns. The network can be complex, but it is affordable and convenient.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Palermo Centro Storico Taormina Catania Centro Agrigento

Day trips

Aeolian Islands

25-50 km (16-31 miles) from Milazzo • Full day to overnight

A group of seven volcanic islands known for their stunning landscapes, hot springs, and unique geological features. The islands offer a variety of activities, including hiking, swimming, and relaxing in natural hot springs.

Erice

100 km (62 miles) from Palermo • Half day to full day

A medieval hilltop town known for its stunning views, historic landmarks, and charming streets. Erice is a popular destination for those interested in history, culture, and panoramic views.

Noto

90 km (56 miles) from Syracuse • Half day to full day

A picturesque Baroque town known for its stunning architecture, charming streets, and rich history. Noto is a popular destination for those interested in art, history, and culture.

Festivals

Infiorata di Noto • May Taormina Film Fest • June Sagra del Miele • September

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Italian or Sicilian phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Visit local markets and try street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience.
Explore the island's hidden gems and lesser-known attractions, such as the Aeolian Islands, the Madonie Regional Park, and the Zingaro Nature Reserve.
Rent a car for flexibility and access to remote areas, but be prepared for narrow roads, aggressive drivers, and limited parking.
Visit during the shoulder or off-peak seasons (April-June, September-October) for better prices, fewer crowds, and pleasant weather.