Sicily launches rural tourism strategy to boost inland travel and nature reserves
Sicily has introduced a rural tourism strategy aimed at increasing inland travel, nature‑reserve visits and local economic activity. The plan was presented at Fieracavalli 2026, which concluded on 8 November, and targets tourism operators, rural municipalities and international visitors seeking inland experiences.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- Sicily unveils a strategy to promote inland tourism, nature reserves and equestrian heritage
- Timing
- Announced at Fieracavalli 2026, concluding on 8 November
- Who is affected
- Tourism operators, rural communities and travellers interested in inland experiences
The details
- Announced by
- Sicilian Region’s Department for Rural and Territorial Development
Strategy overview
The Sicilian regional government presented its rural tourism priorities at the Fieracavalli 2026 exhibition in Verona. The programme, called Sicily at Pace, highlights walking routes, native animal breeds, nature‑based experiences and accessible tourism initiatives to diversify the island’s visitor economy beyond coastal resorts.
- Focus on inland landscapes, protected nature reserves and traditional villages
- Aim to generate employment and business opportunities in depopulated areas
- Encourage collaboration between public authorities and local enterprises
Way of St James walking route
A key announcement was the 130‑kilometre Way of St James itinerary linking ten municipalities, including Caltagirone, Piazza Armerina and Capizzi. The route is designed to promote walking tourism and distribute visitor spending across multiple rural towns.
- Connects Caltagirone, San Michele di Ganzaria, Mirabella Imbaccari, Piazza Armerina, Aidone, Valguarnera Caropepe, Assoro, Nissoria, Nicosia and Capizzi
- Supports guided walking holidays, countryside accommodation and local guide services
- Provides a framework for cultural and outdoor activities in lesser‑known inland destinations
Equestrian heritage and nature‑reserve initiatives
The exhibition also showcased Sicily’s native horse and donkey breeds, digital experiences of protected forests and a memorandum of understanding to strengthen animal‑assisted activities. The Department for Rural and Territorial Development manages 32 of the island’s 75 nature reserves, covering about 430,000 hectares of state‑owned land.
- Introduced the Borgo dell’Asino area for families to learn about donkey breeds
- Signed a MoU with Veronafiere and the Istituto Incremento Ippico per la Sicilia for training and research
- Used immersive digital technology to improve accessibility for visitors with disabilities
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Travelers with existing Sicily itineraries may consider adding inland walking routes such as the Way of St James
- Operators can start promoting countryside accommodation and guided hikes as new product offerings
- Visitors should check for updated accessibility information on nature‑reserve digital platforms
Cost and documents
- No new fees or visa requirements are introduced by the strategy
- Travelers may need to arrange additional transport to reach inland municipalities
- Operators might incur costs for developing guided‑tour services or digital accessibility tools
What you need to do
- Tourism businesses should align marketing materials with the rural tourism priorities announced at Fieracavalli
- Rural municipalities are encouraged to collaborate with the Department for Rural and Territorial Development on route development
- International visitors interested in walking tourism should research the Way of St James itinerary and local accommodation options
Who this affects
-
Sicilian tourism operators
The strategy promotes new inland products such as guided walks, countryside stays and equestrian experiences
What to do Update service offerings and marketing to incorporate the highlighted rural tourism initiatives
-
Rural municipalities in Sicily
They are directly included in the Way of St James route and benefit from increased visitor spending
What to do Coordinate with regional authorities to develop infrastructure and promotional activities
-
International travellers seeking inland experiences
The new strategy creates dedicated walking routes and accessible nature‑reserve visits
What to do Plan itineraries that include the Way of St James and check for accessibility options
Frequently asked questions
What is the new rural tourism strategy announced by Sicily?
Sicily’s rural tourism strategy, presented at Fieracavalli 2026, focuses on promoting inland walking routes, nature‑reserve visits, native animal breeds and accessible tourism to diversify the island’s visitor economy beyond its beaches.
When was the Sicilian rural tourism strategy announced?
The strategy was unveiled at the Fieracavalli 2026 exhibition in Verona, which concluded on 8 November 2026.
Which municipalities are part of the Way of St James route?
The 130‑kilometre Way of St James connects Caltagirone, San Michele di Ganzaria, Mirabella Imbaccari, Piazza Armerina, Aidone, Valguarnera Caropepe, Assoro, Nissoria, Nicosia and Capizzi.
How does the strategy affect tourism operators in Sicily?
Operators are encouraged to develop guided walking holidays, countryside accommodation, educational visits and specialist equestrian itineraries aligned with the new regional priorities.
Are there any new fees or visa changes linked to the strategy?
No new fees, visa requirements or documentation changes are introduced; the strategy focuses on product development and infrastructure rather than entry regulations.
