Riserva naturale orientata Bosco di Malabotta

Bosco di Malabotta is a large protected forest reserve in Sicily that stretches across five municipalities with varied terrain and geology throughout. Clay sediments and limestone rocks create different landscapes as you move between elevations of 700 to 1,300 meters.

This area received official protection status as a nature reserve in 1997, becoming a formally protected forest ecosystem. The designation marked an important moment to safeguard one of Sicily's oldest woodland environments for the future.

Local communities have long ties to this forest and practice traditional ways of managing the land that reflect their connection to the place. The ancient oak trees with their massive trunks represent this bond between the people and their natural surroundings.

You can reach this reserve via hiking trails that start from Montalbano Elicona and offer good access to the area. Parking is available near the main entrance at Contrada Argimusco, which makes planning your visit straightforward.

This forest is home to unusual wildlife such as red foxes, wild boars, and golden eagles that move through the habitat. During spring, wild peonies blanket the forest floor and create a special sight during this time of year.