Castroreale
Latest update: 4 March 2024
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By: Dion Protani
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The small hilltop town of Castroreale is located in northeastern Sicily in the Metropolitan City of Messina province.
Castroreale is famous for its stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Aeolian Islands. The town is also known for its historic architecture, including the Church of Santa Maria Assunta and the Castle of Castroreale. |
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Castroreale: historic Sicilian hill town
Nestled in the hills of Sicily, Castroreale enchants visitors with its timeless beauty and rich history. Wander through its narrow cobblestone streets and admire the medieval architecture, including the majestic Duomo di San Nicola and the imposing Castello di Castroreale.
Explore the charming piazzas adorned with ancient fountains and vibrant flowers, offering a glimpse into daily life in this picturesque town. Nearby, the breathtaking Nebrodi Mountains beckon adventurers with scenic hiking trails and stunning vistas. With its tranquil atmosphere and fascinating heritage, Castroreale offers a delightful retreat for those seeking to immerse themselves in Sicily's cultural treasures.
Explore the charming piazzas adorned with ancient fountains and vibrant flowers, offering a glimpse into daily life in this picturesque town. Nearby, the breathtaking Nebrodi Mountains beckon adventurers with scenic hiking trails and stunning vistas. With its tranquil atmosphere and fascinating heritage, Castroreale offers a delightful retreat for those seeking to immerse themselves in Sicily's cultural treasures.
Comune di Castroreale
Province: Metropolitan City of Messina
Region: Sicily Population: 2,253 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2024) Size: 53 km² Elevation: 394 metres Close by: Milazzo, Novara di Sicilia, Oliveri, Sanctuary of Tindari Recommended accommodation: Hotel Medici (19 km) |
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: La Fedelissima degli Aragonesi (The Most Loyal of the Aragonese)
Listing headline: La Fedelissima degli Aragonesi (The Most Loyal of the Aragonese)
What are the most popular activities in Castroreale and the local area?
- Castroreale Historic Centre: Stroll through the charming streets of Castroreale's historic center, lined with medieval buildings, Baroque churches, and ancient palaces. Admire the architecture and soak in the authentic atmosphere of this picturesque town.
- Norman Castle: Explore the imposing Norman Castle of Castroreale, perched atop a hill overlooking the town. Take in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Tyrrhenian Sea from the castle's ramparts, and learn about its fascinating history.
- Churches and Monuments: Visit Castroreale's beautiful churches and monuments, including the Church of Santa Maria Annunziata, the Church of San Sebastiano, and the Church of San Francesco. Marvel at their stunning architecture and richly decorated interiors.
- Mount Etna Excursions: Take a guided tour to Mount Etna, Europe's tallest active volcano, located within easy reach of Castroreale. Explore the volcanic landscape, hike on lava trails, and admire panoramic views from the summit craters.
- Day Trips: Take day trips to nearby attractions such as the coastal town of Milazzo, the Aeolian Islands, and the historic city of Messina. Explore historic sites, relax on pristine beaches, and savor the beauty of the Sicilian coastline.
What are the best restaurants in Castroreale and the local area?
- Ristorante La Piazzetta: Located in the heart of Castroreale, Ristorante La Piazzetta offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere along with a menu featuring authentic Sicilian dishes. From fresh seafood to hearty pasta plates, guests can enjoy a variety of flavorful options while taking in views of the picturesque town square.
- Trattoria del Conte: Situated in a charming stone building, Trattoria del Conte delights diners with its rustic ambiance and traditional Sicilian fare. Using locally sourced ingredients, the restaurant serves up delicious homemade pastas, grilled meats, and seasonal specialties, all prepared with care and attention to detail.
- Antica Osteria U Cialdini: Tucked away on a quaint street in Castroreale, Antica Osteria U Cialdini offers a cozy and intimate setting for enjoying authentic Sicilian cuisine. Guests can sample a variety of regional dishes, including arancini, caponata, and fresh seafood, all served with a side of warm hospitality.
- Ristorante Pizzeria Venus: With its casual atmosphere and friendly service, Ristorante Pizzeria Venus is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. The restaurant specializes in wood-fired pizzas topped with fresh ingredients, as well as classic Sicilian dishes such as pasta alla norma and parmigiana di melanzane.
- Bar Trattoria Il Torchio: Situated just outside of Castroreale, Bar Trattoria Il Torchio offers a relaxed dining experience with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Guests can enjoy a range of Sicilian specialties, including homemade pastas, grilled meats, and decadent desserts, all served with a side of warm Sicilian hospitality.
Castroreale Gallery
What are the best places to stay in Castroreale?
- Hotel La Bussola: Located in the heart of Castroreale, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet each morning and relax on the hotel's terrace overlooking the town.
- B&B Antico Borgo: Situated in a historic building in the center of Castroreale, this bed and breakfast offers cozy rooms with traditional Sicilian decor. Guests can start their day with a homemade breakfast and explore the town's medieval streets and ancient monuments.
- Agriturismo Monte Alto: Nestled in the hills above Castroreale, this agriturismo offers rustic accommodations in a tranquil setting. Guests can stay in comfortable rooms or self-catering apartments and enjoy farm-to-table meals made with organic ingredients grown on the property.
- B&B Il Mulino: Housed in a restored 18th-century mill, this bed and breakfast offers charming accommodations with original features such as exposed stone walls and wooden beams. Guests can relax in the courtyard garden and enjoy homemade pastries and jams for breakfast.
- Hotel Ristorante Albergo Messina: Located just outside Castroreale, this family-run hotel offers comfortable rooms with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Guests can dine at the hotel's restaurant, which serves traditional Sicilian dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
What's the closest airport to Castroreale?
Catania–Fontanarossa Airport (CTA):
Located approximately 125 kilometers (about 78 miles) southeast of Castroreale, Catania Airport is the primary international airport serving eastern Sicily. It offers flights to various domestic and international destinations.
Falcone–Borsellino Airport (PMO):
Situated approximately 220 kilometers (about 137 miles) west of Castroreale, Falcone–Borsellino Airport, also known as Palermo Airport, is a major international airport serving western Sicily. It offers flights to various domestic and international destinations.
Located approximately 125 kilometers (about 78 miles) southeast of Castroreale, Catania Airport is the primary international airport serving eastern Sicily. It offers flights to various domestic and international destinations.
Falcone–Borsellino Airport (PMO):
Situated approximately 220 kilometers (about 137 miles) west of Castroreale, Falcone–Borsellino Airport, also known as Palermo Airport, is a major international airport serving western Sicily. It offers flights to various domestic and international destinations.
What's the closest train station to Castroreale?
Barcellona-Castroreale train station
- Located 12 kilometres from Castroreale (23 minutes by car)
- Connects with major cities in Sicily including Messina and Palermo.
What private transfer options are there for Castroreale?
A private transfer from Catania Airport to Castroreale takes around two hours.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
- Arrival location (airport, train station or other)
- Arrival date
- Arrival time
- Number of passengers
- Destination (either town or specific hotel)
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
Alternatively, you can use the private transfer booking engine below:
Where can I rent a car to visit Castroreale?