When in Sicily, you must check out Cefalù. We stayed in Palermo, but hopped on a 1 hour train (5.50-7.50€) for a day trip to the smaller town of Cefalù. The ride alone was incredible, following right along the Sicilian coastline.

The city is characterized by the large rock that is aptly named "The Rock" (but in Italian) which towers over the village. Atop The Rock sits the archeological remains of a castle and two-tiered fortress that was used to defend the city during its sieges. Cefalú was home to Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, and Normans between 400 B.C.  and 1200 A.D. It finally joined up with Italy in 1861 [source]. And you know what all this says to me? People wanted it. And why wouldn't you? It's purdy pretty.

You can hike up a whole load of steps to the peak of The Rock for one incredible view. It only took us about 30 minutes, with photo stops along the way, to make it to the top. I suggest bringing a picnic, which we regretfully did not, because the top of the hill has all sorts of benches and tables. You can hike even higher up and reach the castle. At the halfway point of the hike, there is a little hut, which served as a guardhouse back in the day and now serves as a ticket window. There a man asks where you are from and apparently snags 3€ from you. He didn't ask us to pay though - nice fellow. Anyway, I HIGHLY recommend doing this. You won't  have sore legs the next day or any of that business (I know this, because if anyone would be sore, it'd be me).

The town also has a SUPER old cathedral, I'm talking started construction in 1131. The interior sits at more 16th century and is nothing spectacular, but it is a beautiful structure. We were extra fortunate to be in Cefalù on Easter Sunday and witnessed part of the catholic mass taking place (my first mass - check).

In general, Cefalù is just a perfect little Sicilian beach town, filled with super narrow streets with little traffic, little cafes and restaurants, a beautiful coastline with a narrow beach, colorful boats, outdoor seating - you can't go wrong, really.

Now, prepare yourself for the Cefalù photo dump.















 

view from the top - cathedral and all

This puppy was an absolute hoot. Massive as he is, he is only 6 months old. I saved Maggie from a close-encounter moment of intimacy with him while she was laying out. I kind of still regret telling her, it would have been hilarious. The pup as all ready to give her a good slobbery lick until I shouted "Maggie, the dog's about to make out with you."

What would you do in Sicily?