Italy·18 - 24 May 2024
Sicily - the western coast
Discover Sicily's stunning cliffs and crags - the ultimate rock climbing paradise!
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Overview
Sicily, the beautiful island in the Mediterranean, is a hidden gem for rock climbers. The island offers a range of stunning cliffs and crags, providing the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable climbing experience. With a variety of climbing styles available, including sport climbing, traditional climbing, and bouldering, there is something for every level of climber. Some of the most popular climbing areas in Sicily include San Vito Lo Capo, Monte Monaco, and Cava di Uzzo. These locations offer a challenging yet rewarding climbing experience, with stunning views of the sea and the island's unique landscape. Rock climbing in Sicily is a must-do activity for any climbing enthusiast looking for an exciting and beautiful climbing adventure.
Highlights
Sicily
Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and an autonomous region of Italy. It has a rich history, having been settled by various civilizations over the centuries, including the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, and Normans. The island boasts beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, and a mild climate, making it a popular destination for tourists. Its cuisine is renowned for its unique flavors and blends of cultures, with dishes like arancini, cannoli, and pasta alla norma being some of the most famous. The capital city, Palermo, is a bustling metropolis that offers a mix of modern and historical sites, including the stunning Cathedral of Monreale and the Norman Palace. Sicily is also home to the iconic Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, which adds to the island's already impressive natural beauty.
Climbing history in Sicily
Rock climbing in Sicily's western coast has a relatively short history compared to other areas of the world. It wasn't until the 1990s that the region began to attract climbers, largely due to the efforts of the Italian Alpine Club and other local enthusiasts. The limestone cliffs of San Vito Lo Capo, near the city of Trapani, are among the most popular climbing destinations in the area. They offer a variety of routes for climbers of all skill levels, ranging from easy slabs to challenging overhangs. Other notable climbing areas in the region include Monte Cofano and Castelluzzo. Despite its relatively recent emergence on the climbing scene, Sicily's western coast has quickly gained a reputation as a world-class destination for rock climbing, attracting climbers from around the globe to its stunning cliffs and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Hosts
Lorenzo
Lorenzo is a certified IFMGA mountain guide, based at the Dolomites with tons of experience in mountaineering and adventurous trips in Europe and around the world.
Schedule
Given the abundance of climbs in Sicily, we can adjust the itinerary during our climbing week to the preferred challenge level of our clients and the weather. The climbing program is decided on a daily basis based on technique and experience. We are going to leave (early) in the morning (depending on weather conditions) and come back in the afternoon. Lunch will be a snack while climbing. We are going to have a great dinner at the B&B or at some restaurants depending on your preference.
Previous
Next
Day 1
Arrival day
Once picked up from the airport and greeted with a welcome aperitivo, you will have a quick warm-up with your group mates and the guide that will present the main areas for climbing.
NB: There will be only one transfer that will pick you up at 8/8.30 pm at the airport of Palermo.
Transfers are always by car unless we decide to spend a few days at San Vito Camping, from where we can reach many areas on foot.
Day 2
Salinella
Wake up and breakfast. Transfer to Salinella, the main crag in the area of San Vito Lo Capo. An impressive number of equipped routes for every taste will await us.
Day 3
Custonaci
Wake up, breakfast and off to Custonaci and the spectacular Never Sleeping Wall crag. The special thing about this place is the multitude of pipes and concretions which are abundant on the easy climbs.
Crown of Aragon
After breakfast, we will go towards the Crown of Aragon, a beautiful and scenic crag, with mostly overhanging walls rich in concretions. The climb is athletic and continuous. Light lunch and relax on the beach before moving to the crags near Palermo.
Day 5
Bauso Rosso
Also the area of Palermo is rich in crags including Bauso Rosso, a magnificent rocky bar 500 m long with four important sections: Inferno, Purgatorio, Paradiso and Arctica.
Day 6
Roccia dello Schiavo
Another day, another crag. This time is the Roccia dello Schiavo, a spur of Monte Pellegrino that overlooks the Parco della Favorita, in the heart of Palermo. The rock is an exceptional grey limestone, often sharp, but there are also areas with cracks and hourglasses. It is an area rich in sports itineraries to suit all tastes and levels, as well as multi-pitch routes.
Day 7
Last day
The last day is dedicated to visiting Palermo, while the most indefatigable ones could spend the time with the last climbs before flying back home.
What's Included
What's Included
Certified Mountain Guide for the entire duration of the trip
6 days of climbing
Climbing safety equipment
B&B
What's Not Included
Flights
Restaurants and bars
Anything not detailed in the "What's included" section
Gallery
Sicily, Italy
Not only rock... exploring the Rich Biodiversity and Cultural History of the western coast
The western coast boasts a rich biodiversity that has been shaped by a long history of human activity. One of the most significant natural sites in the region is the Oriented Nature Reserve Saline of Trapani and Paceco, which is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including migratory birds, reptiles, and invertebrates. The reserve has a unique landscape characterized by salt pans, which have been used for salt production since ancient times. The Stagnone reserve, which includes the island of Motia, is also a crucial area for biodiversity in the region, with a diverse range of habitats, such as lagoons, sand dunes, and salt marshes. The area has been inhabited by various cultures throughout history, including the Phoenicians, Romans, and Arabs, who all left their mark on the landscape and shaped the biodiversity of the region.
Trip Tips
Climbing Skills
There is no minimum level required for this trip as you will be accompanied at all times by a certified guide. However, due to the nature of Sardinia's crags, you will get the most out of the trip if you already have a little climbing experience and good level of fitness!
Liability
Fjello selects local partners with the utmost care. For any inaccuracies, however, we can not accept any liability. Rock climbing is a risky sport that takes place in nature. Ultimately, you are fully responsible for the choices you make. Fjello recommends that anyone who does not have sufficient knowledge and skills not go outdoor alone. All our trips include a local certified guide who will take care of your group. Enjoy your adventures safely with first-hand information from the locals.
Travel
Please DO NOT book your flights until this trip is confirmed. Most of our trips require a minimum number of participants to run. Wait for the status of the trip to be confirmed.
Add Ons
fjello chalkbag
PRICE$32.63/pp
You'll Be Staying Here
B&B in Trapani
Our basecamp is in the city of Trapani, offering beautiful views of the sea and the surrounding countryside. You'll enjoy a delicious breakfast each morning, made with fresh and local ingredients. Very close to Trapani is the Stagnone lagoon, known for its magic atmosphere and strong winds. The lagoon is surrounded by breathtaking scenery, with views of the Egadi Islands and the salt pans that produce the famous Trapani sea salt. It is also a popular destination for kitesurfing enthusiasts from around the world, who come to enjoy the perfect conditions for this thrilling water sport.
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FAQs
What kind of climbing gear should I bring?
You should bring:
- climbing shoes
- helmet
- harness
- chalk bag
- belay device
All the other equipment will be provided by the guide.
What's the temperature during the period?
You can visit this website for insights about the weather.