Sicily, Italy

Cefalù Sicily

Two things I wanted to do in Cefalù; hike to the top of La Rocca and swim in the Mediterranean again.We started up La Rocca in mid-morning. It was promoted as 20 minutes to the ruins of the Temple of Diana, dating back to Greek times and another 40 minutes to the summit. We took our time and thoroughly enjoyed the walk. It was a combination of simply walking up relatively gentle slopes and exploring the ruins of castles and fortifications built over the centuries. All along the way the views were spectacular of the coastline in both directions.

Later that afternoon I walked down to a protected cove where the breakers were small at the north end of the beach. I had a pleasant swim, parallel to the beach from the cove to the more populous beach with umbrellas and beach chairs for hire. The water temperature was perfect and the subsequent walk along the beach was warm enough to dry me off. The beach lived up to its reputation as one of the best beaches in Sicily.

Our plan for tomorrow was to meet the Carvers, who had rented a villa for a week in the hills above Cefalù, and buy all the makings for our first communal meal with our group on Saturday Night. Claudia had suggested a fish stew and I had a recommendation for a fish shop near the beach. On our way to visit the Carvers at their villa for supper that night, we found Nettuna and ordered the firm, white fish recommended by the young proprietor. He promised to have the two large fish we chose cleaned, skinned and cut into chunks for us to pick up Saturday morning.

We drove to meet Neil at a gas station just outside of town and followed him up about 5 km on a steep, twisting road to their villa, set amidst extensive gardens. They had a two bedroom unit on the upper floor above the owners. They especially liked the view from their balcony and the kindness of their hosts, who offered food from their garden and even did their laundry. What could be better! We had a good dinner with Neil and Claudia, trading experiences in Sicily and discussing our menu plans for the following night.