Bosco di Malabotta

Walking suspended in time, between majestic trees and endangered species

The Bosco di Malabotta is one of the oldest and most evocative natural attractions in Sicily. Entering this oasis of biodiversity in the province of Messina you will find beeches, maples, holm oaks, willows, chestnuts and other beautiful trees. The atmosphere here is really refreshing. 

Train well before departure: inside the forest you walk a lot, from 5 to 15 kilometers. The effort, however, will be well rewarded. You will come across many free animals such as goats, cows, black pigs and, if you are lucky, even foxes. Also to be admired along the streams are the Sicilian trout, an endangered fish species. Among the most renowned routes there is undoubtedly the Path of the Patriarchs, characterized by centuries-old wrecks of oak trees. You can also admire an oak tree with a royal bearing, able to reach 40 meters in height. There are also panoramic points with views of Etna and the Alcantara Valley. 

Another curiosity: the Malabotta Forest contains one of the most mysterious sites in the region. These are the Rocks of Argimusco, known as the "Stonehenge of Sicily". Once through the woods, you can complete the itinerary with a visit to the historic center and the castle of Montalbano Elicona.