Today we hike in the Cavagrande del Cassibile. We have heard that the Sicilians call it their Grand Canyon. As we have already visited the Grand Canyon, we want to see what the Sicilian offshoot can do. We pack a small rucksack with a picnic, water and swimming gear.

From the parking lot, we walk to the entrance of the 250-metre deep gorge, which is very well signposted. On the way, we pass a farm with a guard dog. But he doesn't do anything, he just wants to play.

Once we reach the gorge, we have the choice between access A or B. We enjoy the panorama for a while and then decide on A and go around to the left. There is a viewpoint here first. The first thing we notice are the many bird calls that echo up from below. As we are all alone here, we can hear the chirping very loudly. Then we see a pair of eagles circling above the gorge.

Next, we descend the mountain on large rocky steps. This is not for those with bad knees, but not a great challenge for us. There are signs for various plants all along the way. The flora here is particularly beautiful. I love smelling all the herbs: Thyme, rosemary, sage, mint and many others.

The way down into the valley takes about 45 minutes. Once at the bottom, a very varied hike along the Cassibile river awaits us. The water is super clear and splashes over small waterfalls. Sun and shade alternate. In shady areas, the valley is characterized by ivy, ferns and mossy rocks and stones. In the sunny areas, herbs and flowering plants. Everything is particularly colorful in spring.

From time to time, something scurries away quickly at our feet. Lizards or vipers sunbathing on the warm stones. The hike is really beautiful. The tour is not particularly difficult and does not require any particular physical fitness. However, sturdy footwear is still recommended. If it rains, the mossy rocks could certainly become slippery.

After about two hours we come to a particularly beautiful spot. The river has washed out limestone pools and terraces. It's certainly a nice place for a swim. But it's still too cold for us today.

We start the ascent again. This leads us back via route B. With several photo stops and a small picnic, it took us about 3 hours. If you're not as leisurely as us, you can certainly do it in 2 hours. We liked the decision to take access point A, as this way you have the bathing area ¾ of the way up, just before the ascent.