Urban Trails
On the hunt for epic gravel trails in the most unexpected place
Have you ever found a hidden oasis right in the heart of the city?
One of Palermo’s jewels is the urban park known as “Parco della Favorita” or “Real Tenuta della Favorita.” This beautiful oasis allows locals to enjoy the outdoors without venturing far from the city, connecting it to Mondello, Palermo’s beachside suburb.
The park was created in 1799 by King Ferdinand III, primarily as a royal hunting ground and a space for agricultural experiments, featuring vast cultivations of citrus fruits, olive trees, ash trees, nuts, and sumac. To this day, you can still find traces of architectural elements hidden throughout the park, including the iconic former royal residence of the House of Bourbon “Palazzina Cinese,” located at one of the park's entrances—a must-see for anyone visiting Palermo.
Spanning 990 acres at the foot of Monte Pellegrino, the park serves as a perfect playground for athletes of all kinds—from cyclists and runners to trekkers and rock climbers—as well as casual visitors seeking a peaceful escape surrounded by nature.
For me, this park is my go-to spot when I have limited time and want to train on diverse gravel surfaces. It's also a much-needed break from staring at a computer, providing an invigorating breath of fresh air.
Over the years of riding here, I’ve discovered all the hidden gems in the park, from historic monuments to rugged trails along the mountains. Among them, my favorite trail is the “Sentiero Landolina,” a narrow single-track winding through thick vegetation that barely allows you to see the path. This trail exits the park and leads down to the beautiful coastal suburb of Mondello Beach, which you can begin to see once you reach its highest point.
Having access to this park has given me the opportunity to enhance my off-road riding skills and appreciate the essence of gravel cycling: venturing off the beaten path, exploring new areas, and enjoying the beauty of cycling in nature.
I hope my pictures do justice to this magical place. In fact, I’ve decided to share a few shots in natural coloring to give you a better perspective of the beauty of Favorita Park in early spring.
Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a weekend wanderer, Parco della Favorita offers a unique experience that celebrates the beauty of nature and the joy of exploration.
So grab your bike, lace up your shoes, and come discover the hidden treasures of this remarkable park. If you’re interested in tips or would like to find a great local guide to explore Favorita Park on your next visit to Palermo, don’t hesitate to contact me!
-Mike.
