Sicilian slow living: a new way of experiencing the land
La Sicily is a land of a thousand flavors and colors, anIsland that slows down the pace of life Of each person. This is where the concept of the slow living marries the characteristics of this Italian region, which is also considered one of the slowest in terms of tourism in the entire nation.
What does slow living mean?
Many link the birth of slow living with the2020 health emergency. Indeed, while the covid pandemic has brought us harsh restrictions, it has also fueled a Strong desire for balance and good habits. But in fact this movement was born in the 1980s’, as opposed to international globalization. Slow living precisely means
slow living.
It consists in reestablishing one’s natural rhythms, characterized by a close contact with nature and with oneself. Taking time to meditate, developing new interests and tending to one’s hobbies are the cornerstones of this lifestyle. This, however does not want to absolutely take time away from the duties.
Society has instilled in every individual’s head that slowing down the pace of one’s life makes one lazy and listless. Slow living shows us that it is actually the exact opposite. Carving out time for oneself allows us to restore the balance that we are accustomed to destroying, facing our days always in a hurry and with deadlines that are sometimes more abstract than real. Leading a more balanced life, made up of meditation, yoga, environmentally sustainable choices, km0 products, hobbies e inner peace, will grow in determination and inclination to one’s goals and duties.
So, it seems to have taken a dip into the past, into that 1980s of change. Actually, thehumanity has always needed to slow down. With Covid19 this desire has returned to being a healthy lifestyle that is increasingly approaching the desire to travel and a slow and experiential tourism.
A perfect marriage: Sicily and slow living
Trinacria is a paradise for those who want to find themselves again. Not surprisingly, many people from the rest of the world have decided to move here, Turning one’s life upside down.
Dreamy beaches, unspoiled nature, villages filled with traditions and wonderful people with whom to share emotions. But not only that, here is the home of art, music, entertainment, good food and good and genuine local products.
These aspects make Sicily the perfect destination for those who want to rebalance their souls. All of this goes from tasting the typical traditional dishes, to the enjoy the slowness, scents and authenticity with which the territory responds to the needs of every human in search of peace.
In addition, initiatives as the birth of the Underwater Itineraries of the Mediterranean Sea (elaborate here), of the Historical Train Itineraries and the Van Working Tour (read more about our article) enhance the territory, aspiring to a experiential and sustainable tourism. The latter project combines slow living with south working. It grants a chance to those who for years chased a hectic life in a city they did not feel was theirs to change places and start anew, Blending work with the small and simple things in life.
Slow tourism routes in Sicily
It is precisely when talking about slow living that the slow tourism. In an Island rich inart, nature e good food there is no shortage of opportunities to to live an authentic 360° experience and in close contact with the traditions of a land with an immense natural artistic heritage.
Let’s find out together the three points strengths!
Art and culture
Trinacria from the artistic point of view excels significantly. The passage of hundreds of civilizations over time has shaped the culture and traditions. Over 2000 years of history, this land has preserved incredible artistic heritages, some of which are offered in our cultural tours of Sicily (see more).
But most striking of all is the contrast with which a vacationer might be confronted by the splendor of a baroque building, switching to the simplicity of a contemporary site such as Fiumara d’Arte. Or better yet, the way in which sometimes theart manages to meet with nature. Let’s talk about the Andromeda Theater, a place of almost disarming spiritual simplicity, very much on target with the concept of slow living. We explore this topic in more depth in this article.
Nature: the sea and the hinterland
The sea is a source of inner peace, as well as the countryside and the Sicilian “Dolomites”
With their wonderful hiking trails. It is precisely because of the Island biodiversity Sicilian slow living was born. Pristine places such as the Zingaro Reserve, a protected area with 7 of the most beautiful beaches in Sicily, and the coastline that stretches from the stunning Macari to the Salt Pans of Marsala, are good for the heart and soul.
Incidentally, at the very salt pans of Marsala it is possible to participate horseback rides at sunset, a wonderful activity to undertake after a day of remote working. Not to be underestimated are the three Sicilian archipelagos: the Egadi, the Pelagie and the Aeolian Islands.
The latter with their charm enchant anyone. L’hospitality of the islanders and the beauty of the area make it an excellent destination for slow tourism. Right on the seven aeolian sisters we have created a collection of short stories and reflections that you will find here!
You can also decide to spend days of relaxation on a boat right with Aeolian Charters (for more info click here).
Not only sunrises and sunsets, but also nights with starry skies with places where it is possible to participate in splendid night hikes. Let’s talk about Troina, recognized among the “Most Beautiful Skies in Italy,” and Isnello in the Madonie Mountains, which once darkness falls opens the curtain to a magic of stars and stars.
Local cuisine and products
Sicilian cuisine gives character to this land. But behind every good dish is the km0 product quality. Tomatoes from Pachino, chocolate from Modica (Ciomod, the home of chocolate and liqueurs), blood oranges, native olives, fine grapes and Sicilian wines. Cheeses with deep savory notes, early morning fresh fish, and more.
It is these that make each typical recipe special and give wonderful agri-food experiences. Benefiting from this is precisely the food and wine tourism, with a journey through taste all to be discovered!
Luca Russo