Cycle Tour #3: Day 11
September 20, Isola delle Femmine - Cefalu 93 Km
Left campsite about 7:30
From Isola delle Femmine, continue along the coast past Sferracavallo and Tommaso Natale before heading into Palermo. If you are on this stretch during rush hour, there will be a lot of traffic.
The best thing is to head straight for the water, them follow the coastline along the shores of the Gulf of Palermo and several markets, fish stalls, gypsy campsites and derelict villas. Palermo is the capital of Sicily and among other things is famous as a mafia town- which is well worth the reputation. You will notice all over Sicily in the little towns streets that are now named Via Giovanni Falcone - after the anti mafia magistrate who bombed in Sicily after attempting a crackdown on the Mafia.
Palermo is full of sights but seems very run down - several buildings appear not to have been fixed up since being bombed in WW II. As, well, there are an amazing number of abandoned buildings and deep potholes, backed up sewers and open garnage.
After Ficarazzi, counting through Bagheria, S. Flavia and along the Gulfo di Termini Imerese to Termini. There is a bit of climb to Termini but it is good for the views and a great place for lunch.
After Termini we continue along the shoreline - there is an industrial complex along the beach but keep on the low road and don't take the needles climb up to the higher road. Soon after few more hills along the coast you will reach Cefalu.
Cefalu is a bit touristy but should not be missed. It is a real fishing town filled with narrow streets and old building (and restaurants, boutiques). Explore around this town and you should be able to find reasonable accommodations. There is a magnificent cathedral in the centre.
