Monte Catalfano and Solunto

Monte Catalfano rises about 374 m above sea level on the coast east of Palermo, between Santa Flavia and Bagheria, and carries the ruins of Solunto, a Hellenistic-Roman city. The walk begins at the Solunto Archaeological Park on Via Collegio Romano in Santa Flavia, about 17 km from the centre of Palermo. The simplest access is the regional train from Palermo Centrale to Santa Flavia-Solunto station, a trip of about 20 minutes, followed by a walk uphill or a short taxi ride to the park. By car, parking is available near the entrance. The archaeological park charges an admission fee, which should be confirmed locally, and the surrounding hillside paths are otherwise open. The outing takes about 2 to 3 hours including the ruins and is easy in technical terms: the climb is short, with a modest elevation gain, but the surface of old paving stones, steps and rocky tracks is uneven and often polished. Exposure is high, since the hill is largely open scrub with little shade, and sun is strong in warm months. Along the route visitors see the main street of Solunto, remains of houses with mosaics and columns, a small theatre and the surviving peristyle of a large dwelling, as well as the on-site antiquarium. From the upper terraces and the summit of Monte Catalfano, views extend over the Gulf of Termini Imerese, the sea and the plain of Bagheria. There is no refuge hut, and drinking water is limited, so visitors usually bring their own supply. A sensible turn-around point is the top of the ancient town, after which the same route returns to the entrance. Extending the walk to the summit adds a little time and gives the widest outlook.