Cammarata
San Giovanni Gemini
What to see and what to do a
Cammarata and San Giovanni Gemini
A mountain of excellence
waiting for you
Cammarata and San Giovanni Gemini, the flagship among the Sicani mountains,
we tell you about them together
Let's start with Nature
The Monte Cammarata Nature Reserve is an ideal place for those who want to enjoy nature, go hiking and admire breathtaking views. Situated at an altitude of 1578 metres, it offers spectacular views of the Sicilian coast and Mount Etna. For picnic lovers, the Savochello equipped area is the ideal place to enjoy an outdoor lunch surrounded by nature. For hiking enthusiasts, the Reserve offers many paths to follow, including the Portella della Venere path which offers a breathtaking view and is not so difficult to follow, even if the most beautiful is the Pizzo delle Rondini, however suitable for those who craving for adventure.
For those seeking some rest, the first refuge at an altitude of 1250 meters it offers real restaurant options, as well as a small playground and other paths that can be undertaken right from the parking lot. The Reserve is also home to a wide variety of fauna including foxes, wild rabbits, hares, weasels, porcupines, hedgehogs and garden oaks. The flora of the reserve includes an ancient oak grove with specimens of holm oak and downy oak, mixed with carob and other reforestation species such as cedars, cypresses, pines and maples. On the top parts the euphorbias and the southern rowan dominate. Furthermore, the Reserve is home to numerous endemic species such as the Sicilian dandelion. The Monte Cammarata Nature Reserve offers a unique experience for nature and hiking lovers. If you want, we have created the page with all the details, if you are enthusiasts of nature we recommend that you read more by following the link below
Click and enlarge the trail map
Let's talk about Cammarata
Cammarata is a medieval village that has successfully maintained its original urban design. The town is adorned with religious architecture, including beautiful churches, some of which contain art pieces of significant historical and artistic importance. For instance, the Mother Church of Cammarata, established in the 13th century, is renowned for its exquisite polychrome marble altar and gilded wooden statues.
The land around Cammarata, known for its fertility, has traditionally been used for agriculture and the rearing of sheep and cattle. The region's hills and mountains make it an excellent area for producing fine wines and growing high-quality vegetables and fruits. Additionally, sheep and cow farming are longstanding practices in the area, leading to a cuisine rich in cheese and meat-based traditional dishes.
Strolling through the village's ancient streets allows one to enjoy the fresh mountain air and the aromas of broom and jasmine. In the summer, the scent of traditional cooking wafts from the open windows, adding to the ambiance of a bygone era. Cammarata is the perfect destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in the history and culture of a mountain town, offering a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking, bird watching, and more.
Why do we call it
"A mountain of excellence"?
Let's begin with our primary reference: "The Mount," where we have always resided, and it's the nature of Mount Cammarata that has ignited our passion and which we have long been advocating. However, we then introduced "Excellencies," and here's why: The territories of San Cammarata Giovanni Gemini are home to various excellences, making it a unique and extraordinary place.
For instance, the olive oil produced here was deemed the best in the world at the "International Olive Oil Competition" in 2022. Additionally, wine from a winery established in 1469 received the Bronze in Brussels and boasts the oldest Nero d'Avola hybrid in Sicily.
But the acclaim doesn't stop with food and wine. The caciocavallo cheese made from the rare Modica red cow was named the best Sicilian cheese a few years back.
Moreover, a Cammarata farm was awarded second place in Italy's blind taste test for the best yogurt and, in 2022, also clinched the "Bronze" at the "World Cheese Awards" with its Pepper flower cheese. Motivated by a commitment to preserving and promoting the island's agro-biodiversity, certain local enterprises are dedicated to producing healthy, environmentally and socially responsible food. These enterprises organically cultivate ancient Sicilian grains, yielding stone-ground "russello" and "perciasacchi" flours, artisanal pasta, legumes, olive oil, natural essences, and dried fruits. They also host the official conservation field for the germplasm of ancient Sicilian fruit varieties.
Yet, our local excellences extend beyond the culinary realm. The area is rich with small local craftspeople and includes several "internationally renowned" companies, all of which we encourage you to explore on our website. Note: "A mountain of excellence©" is a registered trademark.
A bicycle trip
Birdwatching
Cross country
Other activities that we recommend you to practice
Some advice on what you can visit
Discover some real hidden treasures in Sicily.
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Let's talk about San Giovanni Gemini
San Giovanni Gemini, nestled in the province of Agrigento, Sicily, stands 670 meters above sea level, cradled by the breathtaking landscapes of Monte Cammarata. The town's origins trace back to 1451 when Federico Abatellis, the Count of Cammarata, was granted the privilege to construct within his domains. By 1507, authorization was given to settle the area, which blossomed into a flourishing city under the stewardship of the counts.
Presently, San Giovanni Gemini has evolved into a sought-after destination, boasting an array of activities and amenities for tourists. Renowned for its trade and hospitality sectors, it presents an idyllic setting for those yearning for a vacation amidst nature and vibrant entertainment. The town is a treasure trove of attractions, offering everything from explorations around Monte Cammarata and strolls through the Sicilian countryside, to sampling local delicacies and visiting historical landmarks.
For enthusiasts of shopping and nightlife, San Giovanni Gemini is a paradise. The town features a plethora of stores catering to diverse shopping needs, alongside an extensive selection of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs for memorable evenings out. The nightlife in San Giovanni Gemini ranks among the most dynamic in the Agrigento province, with options to suit every preference, including nightclubs, live music, outdoor festivities, and themed events. Thus, San Giovanni Gemini stands as a perfect destination for a holiday filled with excitement and retail therapy.
Some advice on what you can visit
Andromeda theater
Santo Stefano Quisquina
Hermitage S. Rosalia
Santo S.Quisquina
Manfredonico Castle
Mussomeli
Old Town
Castronovo of Sicily
Discover with us the whole territory of the Sicani mountains
If you're seeking a distinctive experience in Sicily, I suggest visiting the hermitage of Santa Rosalia alla Quisquina, a hallowed site nestled in pristine nature. Additionally, seize the chance to behold the majestic Bourbon Castle of Mussomeli, an authentic architectural gem from bygone days. For enthusiasts of art and culture, the Andromeda Theater stands out as a must-visit to appreciate the architectural splendor and historical significance of the theater. These highlights represent just a fraction of the excursions available with Sicanians.com, which promises to guide you through the discoveries of the Sicani mountains' treasures in an effective manner.
And that's not all, there are so many things to do...
Where we are?
In the heart of Sicily
We are located in a strategic position in Sicily, between the provinces of Agrigento and Palermo. The fastest way to reach us from Palermo is the SS 189 towards Agrigento. For those coming from eastern Sicily, it is advisable to take the Caltanissetta-Agrigento (SS 640). For those arriving from western Sicily, there are several options available, such as the Sciacca-Agrigento road or the Palermo road.
GPS coordinates: 37°37′45″N 13°38′30″E
Those who decide to take the bus instead can take the Palermo - Cammarata - SSGemini line and also the line
Agrigento - Cammarata - SSGemini and also the line
Timetables and info on BusAway.it
Company: Bus Away
Cammarata/S. Giovanni Gemini – Station. FF. SS.
Departure timetable from Cammarata towards Staz. FF. SS.
Cammarata/S. Giovanni Gemini > Station FF. SS.
(Hours from Monday to Saturday)Sunday timetable
Cammarata (Santa Maria) 06.15 - 12.00 - 17.15 08.15
San Giovanni Gemini (Square) 06.20 - 12.30 - 17.30 08.30
Return time from the station. FF. SS towards Cammarata.Station FF. SS. - Cammarata/S. Giovanni Gemini
(Hours from Monday to Saturday)Sunday timetable
Station FF. SS. - Cammarata/S. Giovanni Gemini
07.10 - 13.10 - 18.10 09.05
By train from Palermo, just take the Agrigento-Palermo line and get off at the Cammarata-San Giovanni Gemini station.
Station FF. SS. > Cammarata/St. John Gemini
Hours from Monday to Saturday
07.10 - 13.10 - 18.10
(Sunday 09.05)
Cammarata/S. Giovanni Gemini > Station FF. SS.
Hours from Monday to Saturday
Cammarata (Santa Maria) 06.15 - 12.00 - 17.15 (Sunday 08.15)
San Giovanni Gemini (Piazza) 06.20 - 12.30 - 17.30
(Sunday 08.30)