A botanic paradise in the heart of Sicily, the Madonie Park extends across an area of 40 thousand hectares, and offers an exceptional variety of natural scenery from the magnificent seascapes along the Tyrrhenian coast to imposing mountains up to 2000 metres in height, and the gentle hills in the hinterland. Such different environments have created favourable conditions for the co-existence of innumerable plant species, some of which are extremely rare and often extinct elsewhere. Numerous paths and mule tracks wind their way through the Madonie park dense woodland and unspoilt countryside, past wonderful panoramic viewpoints and medieval hillside villages, where ancient crafts are still practiced, such as the cultivation of manna. The whole area is well worth exploring, from Castelbuono to Polizzi Generosa, from Petralia Soprana, the highest village and from Petralia Sottana to Cefalù, a fascinating seaside town and gateway to the park, as well as the castles, villas and churches. Booking a holiday home near the Madonie park is the perfect way to discover a hidden Sicily rich in beautiful, natural landscapes. The Madonie mountain park is also well known for its cuisine, rigorously prepared with local products such as cheeses and pastries, sausages and mushrooms.