A Visit to Mondello: Sea and freedom

As you walk along the road that crosses the Favorita Park leaving the cement filled city behind you, a feeling of freedom starts to take over. As you near Mondello, known as the 'Living room of Palermo', and see the sandy coast that runs along the Tyrrhenian Sea , it is like you are about to start a holiday with a lively coastal town waiting to welcome you.

This part of Palermo started as a fishermen's village, and every morning you can still see boats lining the dockside whilst fishermen unload their 'catch of the day'. As a result, Mondello is a fantastic place to enjoy seafood dishes at any of the many restaurants that overlook the sea, all serving the best freshly caught local produce.

Mondello has a welcoming centre full of art nouveau style architecture, dating back to its time as the place that noblemen built their luxurious palaces and villas. You can wander around the shops that sell local ceramics and ethnic products or find a bench where you can sit down to enjoy a handmade ice cream and watch the sun start to set.

The long beach has a mix of free sections and private lidos. Windsurfing is popular, with plenty of shops where you can hire equipment. Mondello also hosts 'World Festival on the Beach', an annual international windsurfing competition, which also features sailing, kitesurfing and beach volley ball.

Finally, do not miss the chance to swim around the wonderful nature reserve of Capo Gallo just a short walk from the main square, or to take an excursion to Mount Gallo. Here you can visit the 'Semaforo', an old military construction that was used as a watchtower and features a sanctuary where you can see some interesting mosaics.

Wonderful in spring and summer, but still charming in winter, Mondello is worth a visit all year. With plenty of accommodation options, it has good connections to Palermo centre. This makes it a convenient location for anyone visiting Palermo, only a 15-minute bus ride away.