Sicily, with its Mediterranean climate, rich history and vibrant culture, offers an incredible diversity of landscapes. Among the things you could easily find are also many parks and lush gardens. Ideal to visit during spring and summer, they offer unique experiences, without considering that some of these are thousands of years old. Discover, then, what are the best gardens to visit in Sicily.
Balio Garden, Erice
The Balio Garden, located in the magical medieval town of Erice, is a true oasis of peace that stands out for its elevated position and breathtaking views of the city of Trapani and the Egadi islands. Created in 1872 by Count Agostino Pepoli, it was set up in exchange for the management of the castle.
Cora today the garden boasts paths with hedges, flowerbeds and an English-style layout, interrupted only by the breathtaking view of the gulf. Among the terraces and neo-Gothic buildings, therefore, it will be possible to take an incredibly panoramic walk. To get here you simply have to walk through the historic center, which is also full of things to see, until you get to the top. The town is reachable both by car and by cable car.
Catania Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden of Catania represents one of the unmissable destinations for nature and botany lovers visiting the city of Etna. Founded in 1858 by the University of Catania, this botanical garden stands out for its collection of both local and exotic plants, offering a journey through biodiversity from around the world.
Inside the Botanical Garden, visitors can explore different thematic areas, including the collections dedicated to succulent plants, palms, Sicilian endemic species, trees, shrubs and various exotic species. The location of the garden, in via Etnea, makes it easily accessible on foot, by bus and by metro: you can therefore add it to the list of things to see in Catania without the fear of having to move.
Kolymbethra Garden, Agrigento
The Garden of Kolymbethra is a hidden jewel in the heart of the Valley of the Temples of Agrigento, a world-famous archaeological site. Created in Greek times as garden of wonders, this place has been transformed into a lush citrus grove, managed by the Italian Environment Fund. Its uniqueness lies in the combination of ancient history and lush nature.
The garden can be visited in combination with the Valley of the Temples, given the possibility of purchasing combined tickets. To get here you simply have to reach Agrigento and then continue to the famous archaeological area.
Radicepura Botanical Park, Giarre
The Radicepura Botanical Park, located in Giarre, represents a unique experience for lovers of botany and lush gardens. In fact it hosts more 3000 species of plants from all over the worldbecoming a favorite place for admiring plants, but also for studying them.
Here you will also find art installations and the famous Garden Festival, a biennial exhibition entirely dedicated to garden design, but also designed for landscape architects. The park is located in Giarre, at the foot of Etna between Catania and Taormina. The site is open upon reservation from Monday to Saturday.
Villa Comunale of Taormina
The Villa Comunale of Taormina is a masterpiece of beauty and tranquility overlooking the Ionian Sea. Founded in the 19th century by Lady Florence Trevelyan, an English noblewoman passionate about botany who lived in Taormina. Located in the center of the town, these gardens are composed of a pine forest, a panoramic avenue and oriental-style pavilions.
Visitors, therefore, can walk among flowering pergolas, fountains and ancient sculptures, discovering hidden corners. The entrance to the Villa Comunale is located in the center, not far from the very famous Ancient Theater of Taorminaalso embellished with a wonderful view.
