The Gypsum Trail (Licodia Eubea)

December 26, 2018
A timeless classic for a post-holiday stroll…
Unique landscapes and unusual paths define today's walk. Starting from the center of Licodia in the historic “Castello” district, we will head out along a trazzera (traditional mule track) towards the Chiesa del Bianchetto, located in the district of the same name. The name comes from the area’s abundance of gypsum outcrops, so much so that in some stretches the landscape turns completely white, creating a lovely sense of purity. Along today's route, we will pass by the “Carcare di gesso” (gypsum kilns), a place of ancient toil where extraction activities took place during the last century. Afterward, crossing the typical Iblei countryside, we will reach the banks of the Santa Rosalia dam. We will have the chance to observe the winter landscape along the shores of the lake. Our lunch break will be in front of the Dirillo river, a relaxing and rejuvenating spot. With backpacks on, we will set off again on a scenic trail with breathtaking backdrops, heading back towards Licodia. Our arrival will be marked by a final walk through the historic town streets: a short final stretch that will lead us back to our starting point.

Fee: € 10,00. Includes guide service, RCT insurance, and organization.
The fee does not include: travel to and from the meeting point.
Lunch: packed.
Meeting point: Wednesday 26/12/2018 at 09:00 AM - At Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, in front of the Church (Licodia Eubea).
End of excursion: Wednesday 26/12/2018 at 05:00 PM - Same as the starting point.
Loop route: approx. 5 hours of walking, regie trazzere (royal mule tracks), marked and unmarked trails, paths with some brambles.
Travel: own car.
Difficulty: medium.
Highlights: The mirror-like water where the sky and sun reflect naturally, creating brilliant and vivid colors. The trazzere leading to the discovery of old trades.
Required equipment: trekking clothing, small backpack, k-way (rain jacket), trekking boots, waterproof jacket, hat, 2 liters of water.
AIGAE Guide: Salvatore Nicosia - [email protected] – 333/7447419 (Whatsapp – Mail)
Collaboration: Cutrone Vito [email protected] – 368/7348961
www.ciaotrekking.com – [email protected]