Floresta: Trails and traditions in the Nebrodi area

Floresta is located in the Parco dei Nebrodi area. Hiking trails, opportunities to observe nature and a townscape featuring historic churches give the town a variety of facets. If you are planning a hotel stay in Floresta, you can consider routes, natural sites and cultural traditions as different starting points for your trip.

Trails, views and routes

A trail in the Parco dei Nebrodi connects Floresta with Randazzo and passes through the area around the Alcantara River. Along this trail is a viewpoint overlooking the Tortorici Valley, from which Mount Etna can be seen. Migratory birds and several mammal species can be observed in the area around the viewpoint. Another trail in Floresta’s network leads to Lago Pisciotto. The trails differ in their destinations and directions: one connects Floresta with Randazzo and passes through the Alcantara area, while another leads to the lake.

Stage 23 of the Sentiero Italia, SI-C V23-A, starts in the centre of Floresta and ends in the centre of Montalbano Elicona. It is marked with continuous white-and-red blazes, directional signs and thematic information boards. Markings may change or require maintenance; trail conditions can also vary by season. Therefore, check the current markings and trail conditions before setting out. Another stage of the Dorsale dei Nebrodi, Portella Femmina Morta–Portella Dagara, ends at Portella Dagara in Floresta. On the SI-C V23-A, both the start and finish are in town centres; for the Dorsale stage mentioned, Portella Dagara is the endpoint.

There is also a specific route description for a horseback ride: the Floresta–Favoscuro riding route is about 6.5 kilometres long and takes approximately two and a half hours at mixed paces. The approximate duration helps you gauge the time required for this route; it refers to riding at the stated paces.

Nature and orientation in the Nebrodi area

Portella Favo Scuro marks the eastern boundary of the Parco dei Nebrodi. It is also a road junction on State Road 116 in the Floresta and Santa Domenica di Vittoria area. Another natural site is Contrada Giuffrè near Floresta, 7 km from the built-up town centre. It is home to centuries-old oak and maple forests. At Costa del Salice in Floresta, white willow (Salix alba subsp. alba L.) grows among the riverside vegetation of Zone D of the Parco dei Nebrodi. These natural features offer different points of interest: Giuffrè is characterised by its ancient oak and maple forests, while Costa del Salice is a riverside location where a named willow species grows.

Churches, processions and crafts

The village of Floresta retains a typical feudal layout: stone houses cluster beneath the bell towers of two churches. The Chiesa Madre di Sant'Anna dates from the mid-18th century and was rededicated to Saint Anne in the 19th century. The Chiesa di Sant'Antonio da Padova has its origins in the 17th century, while its current structure dates from the early years of the 20th century. Their timelines differ: at Sant'Anna, the later rededication is part of its history; at Sant'Antonio, the origins and present-day structure belong to different centuries.

The triptych of Saint Anne, Mary and the Child Jesus is usually carried on the shoulders of the faithful during a procession. The Festa di Sant'Anna attracts visitors from nearby towns and tourists. Embroidery is also part of the local cultural history: it was once a widespread craft in Floresta’s homes. The Mostra del Ricamo Artigianale is now located on Via Umberto I, providing another point of reference for this craft.

Regional traditions and local food

Ottobrando features events celebrating apples, chestnuts, mushrooms and honey. Provola dei Nebrodi is also worth discovering as part of the regional cuisine: it is a traditional Sicilian caciocavallo cheese, made by hand by cheesemakers in the Nebrodi Mountains. Alongside its churches, trails and natural sites, Floresta offers crafts and regional produce as other distinct themes for your stay.

Discover more destinations: Malavagna, Castroreale, Cesarò, Capizzi, Alcara Li Fusi, Sant'alessio Siculo, Mazzeo, Scaletta Marina

For the wider travel overview: Messina.