We are now ready to conquer the highest peak of the island: the Montagna Grande, 836m above sea level. We begin the climb with a first stop at the archaeological site of San Marco and Santa Teresa (1), where you can admire the amazing Roman acropolis and discover the splendour of ancient Sicily during the Punic-Roman period, when the island was one of the most sought-after destinations in the central Mediterranean due to its strategic position between Africa and Sicily. It was here, in 2003, that imperial portraits from the 1st century AD were found.
From here we move on to one of the most ancient places on the island: Montagna Grande. From the village of Sibà (2), the last inhabited village before reaching Montagna Grande (3), the highest peak (4) on the island at 836 metres above sea level. The route runs through a natural pine forest. After a splendid climb, during which you will come across the Kuddia Mida fumaroles, you will reach the summit, from where there is a 360-degree view of the island, with some very suggestive glimpses of the Piana Ghirlanda crater from above. After a break to recharge our batteries, we set off for Lake Venus (5), following beautiful paths through pinewoods and along the old mule tracks that once linked the different areas of the island. We pass through the districts of Randazzo and Bugeber and finally we will arrive to Lake Venus. It is a volcanic crater that has created a basin with a unique ecosystem. You can relax by immersing yourself in the small basins with warm waters or by sprinkling your body with natural mud, which is considered an excellent treatment for the well-being of the skin.
After this relaxing stop, return to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
Duration of excursion: 5 hours; length km 34; difference in altitude approx. m 1000