Meet the last traditional shepherds
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Discover millenia-old traditions, taste authentic cheese
A few traditional Sicilian shepherds still make cheese the way their ancestors did, using a process that was already described in Homer’s Odyssey in the 8th century B.C. They live at the pace of nature, seasons and animal life, and have a unique sense of hospitality.
We offer this excursion from December to June. It takes place near Castelbuono, at the foot of the Madonie Mountains (for other dates, see our Madonie tour with visit to the shepherds).
After a short hike, we arrive at the shepherds' settlement. We spend the morning with them during the cheese-making process, chatting, having some cheese at different stages and - if you wish - giving a hand. This rustic full-immersion experience finish with a cup of warm ricotta (considered as a delicacy by Sicilians), taken directly from the pot.
Questions? Contact us
Ideal for:
- those looking for an off-the-beaten-track experience
- those interested in local traditions and gastronomy
- those who would like to meet Sicilians and share a bit of their everyday life
Difficulty level:
Medium-easy
Total duration:
About 3½ hours (including drive to the departure point of the trail - 15 min + 15 min return trip)
What to bring:
Sport shoes (maybe not your most beautiful ones as the place can be muddy), clothes suitable to the weather conditions
Departure from Castelbuono at 9.30 am.
You will be provided with a map indicating the meeting point when you book.
Prices:
Adult: 30 €
Children (6-16 years old): 10 €
Children (0-5 years old): Free
Groups (from 4 adults): please contact us
The price includes: naturalist guide member of AIGAE (Associazione Italiana Guide Ambientali Escursionistiche) - languages: English, Italian, French, Spanish, cheese and ricotta tasting
Note: transfer until the departure point of the trail is not included. Participants should have a car.
The excursion could be cancelled in case of bad weather conditions.
