SI V16

The stage begins at the ski and hiking resort of Piano Battaglia, where the Rifugio Marini CAI Tip. A of the Palermo section is located, managed by private individuals, at an elevation of 1590 meters above sea level, at the foot of M. Carbonara, 1979 meters, the second highest peak on the island, and M. Mufara, 1859 meters, home to ski facilities and slopes. After leaving the refuge, there's a gentle ascent of about 50 meters in elevation towards the Fun Park, crossing SP 54 and starting to descend along the Faguara valley to the left of the catchment area, until reaching the houses of the same name. From here, the descent continues until reaching 1300 meters, crossing the valley at the junction with the old trail 15, which leads to Piano Pomo, and then begins to ascend, almost up to SP 54. Here, following old disused warehouses, we get to the base of the viaduct, where one starts to climb towards the unguarded hut, the social cabin "F. Tropea" of CAI Petralia, with 10 sleeping places, a kitchen, sink, fireplace, washbasin, and toilet, for which you can request the key (349/222.72.62). From there, at about 1400 meters, continue just below the refuge, marked with appropriate vertical signage, along a dirt road uphill to Portella Mele (1500 meters). From this higher point, descend first via a footpath, then a mule track and dirt road, passing two geological highlights: the Geosito S. Otiero and Ponte San Brancato. You then arrive in the town of Petralia Sottana, passing by the Civil Hospital upon arrival, and from here into the historic center at 960 meters above sea level, which is a stopover location where you can sleep and eat, with the presence of hotels and B&Bs. The stage has red and white vertical and horizontal signage. Make sure to carry sufficient water, besides what you start with, with water access available in the Faguara area about 3 km and then in the hospital area of Petralia Sottana. For those wanting to complete stage 16 from Piano Battaglia to Portella Mele, and then wishing to take the summer variant 16V to the Sanctuary of Madonna dell'Alto, you can continue following the directions already described in the variant stage, reaching Petralia Sottana via the Pilgrims' Path, with a total distance of 18 km from Piano Battaglia to Petralia Sottana, via the Sanctuary of Madonna dell'Alto.