The Abbazia di San Martino delle Scale sits in a wooded valley about 5km northwest of Monreale, at an altitude of around 700m in the hills above the Conca d'Oro. The monastery is Benedictine and claims a history going back to the 6th century, though the current buildings are mainly 16th-18th century. It is a working monastery: the monks farm the surrounding land and produce honey and herbal products.
The complex is far less visited than the Monreale cathedral, which makes it a pleasure. The church has a fine baroque interior, and the gardens and surrounding forest are peaceful. Guided tours of parts of the monastery are available; check the schedule at the entrance. The drive or walk up from Monreale through the hillside is pleasant in itself, with views opening out over the valley below.