At a glance. A vast green haven within the sea and nature area, this mountain oasis offers breathtaking scenery among dense woods and large rock. Did you know it hides the remains of an archeological site and hosts a protected oasis by Lake Arancio at its feet? Find it on the map and read more!
Good to know. The nature reserve of Monte Genuardo and Santa Maria del Bosco extends over the Sicani Mountains and is situated between Sambuca di Sicilia, Contessa Entellina and Giuliana. It protects both the natural beauty of the oak- and pine forests and the archaeological site of Adranon (Adragna) located just a few kilometres from Sambuca di Sicilia, Italian Village of the Year 2016. The reserve is divided into three areas: Monte Genuardo, Santa Maria del Bosco and Bosco del Pomo: the latter, located between Sambuca and Contessa Entellina, is the main entrance to the reserve and is equipped with parking, a picnic area and a visitor’s centre.
From this departure point various footpaths of graded difficulty allow visitors to explore the reserve and admire its breathtaking views: immense blocks of rock rise above dense forests and are home to birds of prey such as Poiana, Barbagianni, Civette and other birds, amongst which the Rampichino. The woods are inhabited by martens, rabbits, porcupines, foxes and wild cats. The area called Santa Maria del Bosco owes its name to the abbey, a 17th century monumental jewel tucked away amongst the oak trees.
In the valley below Sambuca, on the shores of Lake Arancio, birdwatchers may spot migrating birds such as Airone, Germano Reale and Cormorano. Upon entering the forest gate of the Bosco della Resinata, you can follow a loop nature trail that runs along the protected shoreline and allows for an easy walk down to viewpoints overlooking the lake.
Whether you choose to hike the mountain’s rocky trails or stroll along the lakeshore, this vast Sican treasure offers a profound sense of peace, ideal for escaping the chaos and rejuvenating amidst the authentic scents of Sicily’s interior.
To get to the Reserve, take the SS115 from Agrigento to Sciacca. Take the exit for Sambuca di Sicilia (SP41) and keep heading for Sambuca di Sicilia.
Just before reaching Sambuca, turn into the SP69 to Adragna. The entrance to the Reserve is at about 5km, in proximity of Contessa Entellina.
It is not recommended to visit the area during or shortly after showers of rain.
Nature Reserve of Monte Genuardo e Santa Maria del Bosco is open to visitors all year round
Nature Reserve of Monte Genuardo e Santa Maria del Bosco: free access
Guided visits are available upon prior booking.
R.N. Monte Genuardo e Santa Maria del Bosco
Administration office: for further information
Provincial office of Agrigento: Tel. +39 0922594599
Local office of Sambuca di Sicilia: Tel. +39 0925941194
The following coordinates indicate the entrance to the Nature Reserve.
GPS
N 37° 41' 53.34''
E 13° 9' 20.6''
Google maps
37.69815 , 13.15572
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