Itinerarium Rosaliae: Anello Abbazia di Santa Maria del Bosco

This jogging route is approximately 13 km (8 miles) long and typically takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes to complete. It is rated as difficult, featuring varied terrain and ascents.

The trail offers varied surfaces, including sections through dense forests of holm oaks and downy oaks. You should expect ascents, particularly as you head towards higher elevations. After rain, some sections can be muddy, so appropriate footwear with good grip is highly recommended.

The route starts from Bisacquino and leads to the historic Abbey of Santa Maria del Bosco di Calatamauro. This ancient Benedictine/Olivetan Abbey, founded in the 14th century, is a significant cultural heritage site nestled within the Monte Genuardo Nature Reserve.

Yes, as you gain elevation, especially towards Monte Genuardo, you can enjoy panoramic views of western Sicily. On clear days, these views may include the Egadi Islands, Monte Cammarata, Rocca Busambra, and the Gulf of Castellammare.

The trail offers beautiful scenery year-round, with the dense forests of holm oaks and downy oaks displaying particularly vibrant colors during winter. However, consider the weather conditions, as rain can make sections muddy. Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures for jogging.

The Parco dei Monti Sicani area is generally welcoming to dogs. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash, especially given the varied terrain and potential wildlife in the Monte Genuardo Nature Reserve. Please ensure you clean up after your pet.

There is no general permit required to jog this trail within the Parco dei Monti Sicani. Access to the natural areas is typically free. For visiting the Abbey of Santa Maria del Bosco di Calatamauro itself, which is now also a historical residence and relais, it's advisable to check their specific visiting hours or any potential entrance fees directly.

While specific parking areas for this exact trailhead are not detailed, Bisacquino is the starting point. You should look for public parking options within the town before beginning your jog towards the Abbey. It's recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.

Yes, this route covers significant portions of other official trails. Approximately 75% of it follows the 'Da Chiusa Sclafani a Abbazia di Santa Maria del Bosco' trail, and it also includes sections of 'Godrano - San Carlo' (35%) and 'Itinerarium Rosaliae - Tappa 5' (35%).

The trail starts from Bisacquino, where you can find cafes and restaurants. The Abbey of Santa Maria del Bosco di Calatamauro itself is a historical residence and relais, which may offer refreshment options, but it's best to confirm availability directly with them.

Given the trail's difficult rating and varied terrain, you should bring good grip trail running shoes, sufficient water, and appropriate clothing for the weather conditions. A map or GPS device is also advisable, as you'll be in a natural reserve.