The last time we went to Agrigento, it was autumn. We took the train from Palermo and enjoyed the trip. As we sped through the Sicilian countryside we saw small towns in the distance, rolling hills, wide plains and valleys, the landscape golden after the summer heat. Visiting Agrigento is always a treat, and I wanted to show my friends the Valley of the Temples. After all, it has some of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world.
We got to the temples, set on a plateau between the sparkling sea and modern Agrigento, and walked around, amazed at the beauty and vivid feeling of history. The autumn sun warmed our skin and the sea breeze caressed our faces. The Temple of Concordia was incredible, easily rivalling the Acropolis in Athens in its beauty. Agrigento fascinates all year round, but I wanted to visit in spring. Why? The almond flowers.
Agrigento’s Annual Almond Festival
The countryside around Agrigento is covered in almond trees, which start to bloom in February. These welcome flowers symbolise the start of spring in a beautiful and evocative setting, attracting visitors from around the world. The start of spring – as heralded by the white and pink almond blossoms – has been celebrated in Agrigento for centuries. However, the Almond Blossom Festival officially began in the 1940s. It mixes history, folklore, nature, and music in a wonderful fashion.
Lasting a week, the festival takes place during the height of the almond blossoms, but dates vary from year to year. The festival itself brings together folk parades, musical performances, local food and much more. It is a vivid celebration full of colourful costumes and authentic culture. You can watch torchlit processions, take part in traditional dancing, and listen to the marching bands. It’s so unique that it has to be seen to be believed!
In and Around Agrigento
Visiting Agrigento means seeing ancient history come to life, experiencing true local flavours, and spending time on unspoilt beaches. What do we love about the area? The list is endless!
The Valley of the Temples is unmissable, as are the Kolymbethra Gardens. We sat under the shade of the trees and took in the scents of the Mediterranean plants. It was magic!
We loved spending the day by the Scala dei Turchi beach with its unusual white cliffs making it one of the most picturesque places in Sicily. Pack a picnic and enjoy a day by the sea!
Source: Corriere
San Leone also has a lovely sandy beach with some stylish beach bars. Stop off at one, go for a swim, and then enjoy a sunset aperitivo (it’s the perfect time for an Aperol Spritz!).
Source: Italia.it
For a quieter beach option, we love the beach at Eraclea Minoa where the sandy beach is surrounded by a quiet pine forest that offers shade as well as peace and quiet, and pretty white cliffs.
Source: BeachSearcher
Farm Cultural Park is nearby in Favara. This independent cultural centre has transformed part of the small town into an artistic installation, with murals, and street art, as well as regular exhibitions and events.
Source: VeraClasse
Villas near Agrigento
We have some beautiful villas near Agrigento that are ideal for a holiday in Sicily. If you want to get to know this area of Sicily, a villa is a great choice. You can rest and relax at the villa, making the most of the swimming pool, or the barbecue. Then you can head out and explore the local area.
If you want to visit a different part of Sicily, don’t worry! We have villas all over the island. You can read all about Sicily, its culture, and its top sights on our blog. Then browse all our villas from north to south, and easy to west, and find you perfect holiday villa in Sicily. If you ever need advice, our team are here for you; just get in touch and ask your questions! A holiday in Sicily is just around the corner!
