RECOMMENDED EXCURSIONS
Three essential journeys
Together they offer an unforgettable introduction to the cultural richness surrounding Trapani and the Dimore Fardelliane.
Gibellina
Contemporary art, memory and rebirth.
Mazara del Vallo
The meeting point of Europe, Africa and the Mediterranean.
Selinunte
The timeless legacy of Magna Graecia.
EXCURSION 01
Belice & Gibellina: Art, Memory & Rebirth
- Full Day (09:00 – 18:30)
- Departs from Trapani
A full-day journey from Trapani into the heart of contemporary Sicily. The route winds through vineyards, olive groves and the rolling landscapes of western Sicily until reaching the Belice Valley, a region transformed by one of the most visionary cultural projects in Europe.
Highlights
Gibellina Nuova
Named Italian Capital of Contemporary Art 2026, Gibellina is a unique open-air museum. Following the devastating earthquake of 1968, the town was rebuilt through the collaboration of some of Italy’s most important artists, architects and sculptors.
The Great Cretto of Alberto Burri
One of the most extraordinary works of land art in the world. Created by Alberto Burri on the ruins of old Gibellina, the monument covers the destroyed town with vast white concrete forms tracing the original streets and neighbourhoods. Walking through the Cretto is a deeply moving experience: a journey through memory, silence and rebirth.
Open-Air Museum
The town also hosts monumental works by Pietro Consagra, Arnaldo Pomodoro, Mimmo Paladino and many other leading artists.
Lunch in the Belice Valley
Traditional Sicilian cuisine accompanied by wines produced in the surrounding countryside.
“Gibellina is not simply a destination: it is a powerful reflection on how art can transform tragedy into beauty.”
EXCURSION 02
Mazara del Vallo: Where Europe Meets Africa
- Full Day
- Train + Car
A fascinating journey into one of the most multicultural and Mediterranean cities in Italy. Mazara is renowned for its unique Arab-Norman heritage, where centuries of cultural exchange between Sicily and North Africa have shaped a truly distinctive atmosphere.
Highlights
Arrival by Train
The railway follows the western Sicilian coast through salt pans, vineyards and fertile countryside before reaching Mazara del Vallo.
The Kasbah
A maze of colourful alleyways, courtyards and ceramic-covered streets reflecting centuries of cultural exchange between Sicily and North Africa.
The Dancing Satyr Museum
Home to the celebrated bronze statue recovered from the depths of the Mediterranean Sea, one of the most important archaeological discoveries of recent decades.
Norman Cathedral
An elegant example of Sicily’s rich architectural history.
Return via Castelvetrano
On the journey back, discover Castelvetrano, centre of the famous Nocellara del Belice olive and gateway to the region’s archaeological treasures.
EXCURSION 03
Selinunte: The Splendour of Magna Graecia
- Full Day
- Departs from Trapani
- Largest archaeological park in Europe
Selinunte is one of the great archaeological wonders of the Mediterranean. Founded in the 7th century BC, it became one of the wealthiest and most powerful Greek cities in Sicily.
Highlights
Temple E
Beautifully restored and among the finest examples of Doric architecture anywhere in the Mediterranean.
The Acropolis
Standing above the sea, the Acropolis offers breathtaking views towards Africa and the open Mediterranean.
Eastern Temples
Monumental ruins immersed in a landscape of wild herbs, coastal dunes and endless horizons.
Lunch by the Sea
Opportunity to enjoy fresh seafood and local cuisine in the charming village of Marinella di Selinunte.
“Unlike many archaeological sites, Selinunte preserves an exceptional relationship between history, landscape and sea.”
BOOK YOUR STAY
Ready to explore Western Sicily?
Contact us to arrange any of these excursions as part of your stay at Dimore Fardelliane.