SHARRYLAND
Trekking on the Mule Tracks - Giglio Island
You say island, you say sea-or maybe not?
Where is
What it is and where it is
The ancient mule tracks of Giglio Island take the form of steep paths built into the granite, the rock that makes up the island. These paths are partly paved and partly made of beaten earth; they are often steep steps carved into the stone. Some, very old, date back to old Roman tracks. They are immersed in the Mediterranean maquis and open onto breathtaking landscapes from the beaches to the island's peaks.
Why it's special
Truly unique paths that cross natural environments of rare beauty immersed in the sounds of wind, sea and seagulls. You move amid spectacular blooms of cistus, rosemary, broom, lavender myrtle and lentisk and breathe in unique scents. You often pass through vineyards of ansonaca grapes that grow, very low, in steep terraces on the cliffs.
Not to be missed
Treks make you hungry, you know. Fortunately on the island everywhere you can eat really special seafood dishes, but don't make the mistake of not leaving room for the typical dessert, Il Panficato, and Ansonaco wine.
A bit of history
The island has only three very small settlements, Porto, Campese and the ancient Castle, which retains the medieval layout and buildings to defend against pirates. It is rich in historical, Neolithic, Etruscan, Roman and medieval traces. Like the nearby island of Giannutri, it was owned by the Domizi Enobarbi, an ancient Roman family to which Emperor Nero belonged. On the remains of the villa now stands the ancient settlement of Giglio Porto and a medieval tower.
Trivia
Can the etymology of a simple name like lily be interesting? Oh yes, especially when it has no relation to the Italian word for flower but to the term Igilium meaning Goat.
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