The Journey from Ragusa Ibla to Ortigia - Stage 3: From Monterosso Almo to Palazzolo Acreide

The Journey from Ragusa Ibla to Ortigia
The Journey we are offering is a hiking route divided into 7 stages that winds through some of the most evocative areas of south-eastern Sicilia. This is not a continuous trek; instead, it will take place over a series of Sunday outings during the winter season, from November to March.
The stages are designed to help you discover the beauty of the region in a sustainable and accessible way, connecting historic cities, hilltop villages, and breathtaking natural landscapes, all culminating on the splendid island of Ortigia, the ancient heart of Siracusa.

Logistics

• The stages will take place on Sundays, allowing participants to enjoy a more relaxed, non-consecutive pace during their weekly break.
• Daily distances are planned to be covered in about 5-7 hours of walking, allowing participants to finish the hikes in the afternoon.
• You may choose to participate in one or more stages.
• We will handle the logistics for vehicle recovery at the end of the hike; the rental of one or more vehicles for the return to the starting point will be arranged based on the number of participants.

Stage 3: January 19th - From Monterosso Almo to Palazzolo Acreide
Stage Description:
We will set off just outside Monterosso Almo, heading south-east and quickly immersing ourselves in the green hills that define the Iblei landscape. The stage will take us through a site of great historical value: the archaeological area of Casmene. Here, we will follow the ancient track that once connected Kasmene to Akrai (modern-day Palazzolo Acreide).
This path has witnessed numerous discoveries, including those made by archaeologist Paolo Orsi in the early 1900s, who brought to light fascinating stories of a remote past. After a refreshing break, we will resume our walk towards our destination for the day, Palazzolo.
The final stretch, scenic and evocative, will offer us moments of reflection, allowing us to appreciate the beauty of the surrounding landscape and the historical significance of this route.

Participation fee: € 20.00 – Includes guide service, accident insurance, and hike organization. To activate the insurance, please send your full name and tax code (codice fiscale).

Costs not included: Packed lunch, travel to and from the meeting point, shared cost for the rental of one or more minibuses for the return to the starting point.

Meeting point: Sunday, January 19th at 09:00 AM, Piazza S. Giovanni, 46, 97010 Monterosso Almo RG

Google Maps Link: Click here.

End of the trip: Sunday, January 19th at 05:00 PM in Palazzolo Acreide.

Route: Approximately 7 hours, including breaks

Elevation gain: 580m ascent, 480m descent

Difficulty: Challenging.

Required equipment: Hiking clothing and shoes, long trousers, hat, trekking poles, rain jacket (k-way), 2-liter water bottle.

Booking: By January 17th or until the group is full.

Notes: The hike may be subject to changes due to unpredictable natural conditions. In such cases, the guide will decide on any necessary route modifications. An email with updated information will be sent a few days before the hike.

Bookings and contacts

• Participation fee and bookings: € 20.00
  Bookings at 3287484939 (Javier) and 3334987946 (Salvatore) or via email at [email protected].
• AIGAE Guides: Salvatore Marletta and Javier Marletta