La Bella Sicilia Mini
Ancient Sicily and the Dreamy Aeolian islands
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- What to expect
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A distinct yet indescribable island, beautiful Sicily has withstood centuries of tyranny and upheaval to emerge as a vital and varied cultural region, as you’ll discover on this action-packed bicycle tour. The Mediterranean’s largest island, Sicily’s soil and architecture reveal layers of intriguing history left during its rule by Arabs, Greeks, Romans, Saracens, French, Spanish, and Bourbons, and all their influences are still felt today. Focusing on Sicily’s lush green spectacle in springtime and its vast golden stage in autumn, our bike trip itinerary ranges from the southern and northeastern tip of the island to beautiful and historic interior areas never seen by most tourists. Our cycling journey includes a hike up Mt Etna, the highest volcano in Europe, and reaches its apex as we explore the dreamy, volcanic Aeolian Islands, each with its own distinct character and charm.
Tour Essence
- Witness views of Europe’s highest volcano, the Mount Etna
- Experience two days on exotic Aeolian islands
- Learn more about the Baroque Ragusa and the Greek monuments of Siracusa
- Visito a Slow Food presidia of capers, olive oil and Malvasia wine in Lipari
- Stay in luxury hotels and enjoy delicious Sicilian feasts including fresh seafood and vegetables
- Immerse yourself in Sicilian culture with the local music and the warm people of the Island
What to Expect
Terrain
Rolling and hilly with a 4-6 hour hikeStart Location
CaltagironeEnd Location
EtnaMileage
Average Daily: 28 miles Total: 196 miles
Once you have a trip confirmed, we will feed you a steady diet of additional pre-departure information that includes: How to train, prepare, pack and all the wonderful, inspirational and practical things you want and need to know before you go! Our Travel Advisors will be available to help plan your pre- and post-tour travel.
- Van support
- Expert, bilingual guides
- 2 wine tastings
- Visit to Siracusa and guided walking tour of Ragusa, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Boat ride with locals to remote turquoise coves
- Hike up Mt. Etna
- Shuttles at beginning, during and at the end of the tour
What’s Included
- Use of a carbon road bike equipped with a Garmin Edge Touring GPS
- Ciclismo jersey and water bottle
- Two water bottle holders
- Map holder on handlebars and a Garmin Edge GPS
- Handlebar bag
- Tire pump
- Combination bike lock
- Gel-padded saddle
- Choice of pedals
- Card with your tour leaders’ mobile phone numbers
Pedal Options
- Flat pedals
- Half-toe pedals (without straps)
- Toe cage pedals
What’s Not Included
- Helmet
- Optional: clipless pedals with shoes
- Optional: your own saddle
- All accommodations
- All breakfasts
- 2 lunches
- 6 dinners
Come with us on this unique tour by bicycle and enjoy Sicily’s rich culture and warm people. Hike, swim, and bike where the movie “Il Postino” was filmed and enjoy traditional Sicilian food, wine, and music, while stopping each night at a luxury hotel. Sicily boasts some of the finest examples of Greek architecture in the world, and we’ll explore its most spectacular sites as we ride through Ragusa, Siracusa, San Giovanni la Punta and more. A ride up into the remote and haunting Altopiano Ibleo area, a visit to the exquisite Villa Donnafugata, and the spectacular views from Taormina are just a few of the many highlights of this Sicilian bike trip. Finally, we’ll board a boat to continue our journey on the Aeolian Islands of Lipari, with its deep caverns, steep cliffs, and splendid views, and Salina, which we’ll explore on a bicycle while learning about its fascinating ancient history.
2021
Start Location
CaltagironeFly Into
RomeEnd Location
EtnaFly Out Of
CataniaCaltagirone
Meals Provided
Lunch, DinnerAverage Mileage
10 milesRiding Terrain
RollingMeals Provided
Lunch, DinnerAccommodations
Villa S. Mauro
The 4-star Villa S. Mauro is a quiet, modern hotel on the outskirts of town. Its large lovely rooms offer all the great amenities and features a classic foyer, great bar and a private pool.
Caltagirone to Ragusa
Meals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAverage Mileage
50/53 milesRiding Terrain
Three major climbsMeals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAccommodations
Antico Convento dei Cappuccini
From the restoration of the Ancient Capuchin Covent, in the core of the Gardens of Ragusa Ibla, this concept-hotel has seen the light, offering the travellers the exclusive experience of lodging in a convent, of relax and natural wellness. When you stay here, you get the chance to plunge into a unique atmosphere in an authentic dimension.
Ragusa Loop to Donnafugata and Scicli
Meals Provided
BreakfastAverage Mileage
46 milesRiding Terrain
HillyMeals Provided
BreakfastAccommodations
Antico Convento dei Cappuccini
From the restoration of the Ancient Capuchin Covent, in the core of the Gardens of Ragusa Ibla, this concept-hotel has seen the light, offering the travellers the exclusive experience of lodging in a convent, of relax and natural wellness. When you stay here, you get the chance to plunge into a unique atmosphere in an authentic dimension.
Ragusa to Siracusa
Meals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAverage Mileage
52 milesRiding Terrain
Gently rollingMeals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAccommodations
Grand Hotel Ortigia
Offering a rooftop terrace and glass elevator with sea views, the 5-star Grand Hotel Ortigia is located on the natural island of Ortigia. Rooms are spacious and offer free Wi-Fi access, a flat-screen TV, and air conditioning. The spa is also friendly and welcoming.
Siracusa to San Giovanni la Punta
Meals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAverage Mileage
38 milesRiding Terrain
RollingMeals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAccommodations
Villa Paradiso Dell’Etna
Set in a little village at the foot of Mount Etna, the 4-star Villa Paradiso dell’Etna allows you to stay in a real Sicilian villa. Opened in 1929 and once frequented by renowned artists and writers, Villa Paradiso has been elegantly restored and decorated. All rooms have panoramic views of the gardens or Mount Etna. The villa boasts a cordial and helpful staff, piano bar, panoramic roof garden, wine cellar, outdoor pool, and much more!
Hike Mount Etna / Arrivederci!
Meals Provided
BreakfastAverage Mileage
4-6 hour hikeRiding Terrain
Gentle climbingMeals Provided
BreakfastAccommodations
[SAMPLE] Palazzo Del Capitano
The 4-star Palazzo del Capitano is a restored ancient mansion from the 15th century and combines tradition with modern comforts.
