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Avoid driving through major cities such as Catania and Palermo, if possible, as traffic congestion is rife and parking an adventure to say the least. For towns in general it is advisable to park outside the old walled perimeter and venture in on foot.

Local taxis are worth using to reach out-of-the-way archaeological sites or walks. If none are around, a good bet is to ask at the main village café. People tend to be extremely helpful and go out of their way to help visitors.

Accommodation

All the walk descriptions come complete with listings for accommodation. These range from the modest hotel or albergo, to a room in a private home (known variously as camera privata, affittacamera or bed & breakfast), simple apartment (apartamento), and a hostel (ostello) or two. Otherwise there are the flourishing agriturismo farm establishments, many of which are restored historic properties.

The odd mountain hut (rifugio abbreviated to Rif.) has also been included where relevant. Unlike the spartan establishments in the Alps, these are hybrids – all can be reached by road and are more like country hotels. Sheets are provided as is a private bathroom in many cases, and guests need take only a towel. Charges are generally moderate and home-style meals are available. Those run by the CAI (Club Alpino Italiano) offer discounted rates for members of affiliated organisations. A separate organisation, the CAS (Club Alpino Siciliano), has a couple of well-run manned refuges in addition to unmanned chalets in wonderful positions, though the latter are for the exclusive use of members.