A Basket of Traditions and Tastes by Associazione Valle delle Cascate

"By participating in this exceptional excursion, you will experience a spectacular adventure in search of wild herbs among mountains and waterfalls. Many of the plants you will encounter during this beautiful walk—which will connect you deeply with the nature of the Nebrodi Park—are edible and part of a healthy, ancient diet that takes you back in time.

You will be accompanied by Daniela Dainotti, a professional Environmental Hiking Guide, who will lead you at a gentle pace into a world of a thousand colors and flavors."


SCHEDULE & PROGRAM

Available: March to April and October to November.

  • Meeting Point: Participants meet in Piazza Vittorio Veneto in Mistretta, followed by a short drive in your own vehicles to Contrada Fontana Murata.

  • The Foraging Adventure: Once on-site, with a basket under your arm, we will set off to find and identify various wild herbs. You will learn to recognize plants rich in medicinal properties that tell the story of traditional peasant life. You'll discover herbs used for cooking or natural remedies, as well as those that are toxic yet fascinating.

  • The Route: The path winds through uncultivated fields until reaching the "Belvedere" (viewpoint), offering a stunning look over the Valley of the Waterfalls.

  • The Waterfalls: After a 20-minute trek on a dirt path, we will hike about 150 meters up the riverbed to reach the Ciddia Waterfall. Though small with a 6-meter drop, it is incredibly scenic and known as the "Waterfall of Love."


PRACTICAL INFORMATION

  • Difficulty: Medium; suitable for children accompanied by adults.

  • Duration: Approximately 4 hours, including breaks and a packed lunch (times may vary slightly).

  • Return: Expected back in town by 1:30 PM.

  • The Experience: To complete the journey, the organizers will offer you a tasting of local delicacies prepared with wild herbs. 🍴🍲


EQUIPMENT & REQUIREMENTS 🎒👟

  • Mandatory Gear: Comfortable "layered" clothing, long hiking pants, trekking boots, a backpack with at least 1 liter of water, and a basket for foraging.

  • Wading Gear: Rubber boots are required for crossing the river (wading). These can be rented on-site upon prior reservation.

  • Recommended: A notebook and pen for taking notes on the herbs discovered. 📒✍🏼

N.B. The excursion requires a minimum of 4 participants and is subject to favorable weather conditions.