Even during the summer season, the ski area of Piano battaglia is active. Thus, even those who love to experience the mountains during the warmer months of the year can visit one of Sicily’s most fascinating locations; making it especially suitable for those who prefer the mountains to the sea.
This area can be visited in the summer either on foot or by bicycle, since it is possible to rent pedal-assisted mountain bikes on site, so that one can enjoy the splendid nature that this area offers and immerse oneself in the green woods. Thus, Piano Battaglia is now not only a place for winter sports enthusiasts, but also for bikers and trekkers.
The chairlift
Piano Battaglia is the only Sicilian ski resort to open a chair-lift during the summer season: the Mufara chairlift (so called because it connects to Mount Mufara), a new installation that took the place of an old ski-lift a few years ago. It is the jewel in the crown for those who want to observe the beauty of the area between mountains and a high altitude spectacle.
Even those who visit by bicycle can get on the chairlift, as half of the seats have hooks to take their mountain bikes to the top. Moreover, with the appropriate equipment, it will be possible to stop at the top of the mountain to observe the golden eagle in its natural habitat. The summer season is also aimed at children and families. In fact, there is a ‘family’ promotion that allows children up to 12 years of age accompanied by both parents to use the chairlift free of charge.
There are also several trails that lead from Piano Battaglia to discover the natural wonders of the surrounding area. Three of these are dedicated to three great local personalities: Pippo Tarro (the first inhabitant of Piano Battaglia), Vincenzo di Franco (the first owner of the Mufara) and Pino Cascio (maintainer and reference point for everyone in the small mountain hamlet).
The events
Piano Battaglia’s summer season usually starts in mid-June and ends in mid-September, and many events take place during the season, including many rally/enduro rallies, concerts and summer camps. In the summer of 2019, the first ‘Mufara fest’ was also celebrated in the natural amphitheatre ‘Massimo Accascina’ right on Mount Mufara, which can be reached easily by chairlift. It was a festival full of music, walks, tastings, guided tours, yoga lessons and excursions; a mixture of art, culture and nature. The staff thus endeavoured to make the place an entertainment habitat for the entire Madonie territory and beyond.
