CYCLING IN SICILY(Trip #59719)

Tour Overview

Explore Baroque towns, ancient Greek ruins and enjoy stunning scenery cycling across the largest island in the Mediterranean
Sicily has to be one of the most fascinating islands in Europe. There is an incredibly diverse history, thanks to almost every civilisation leaving their mark, including the Phoenecians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans and Spanish. On our exciting cycle journey through the south-eastern part of the island, we enjoy varied scenery of high plateaux of lava and limestone, a number of impressive gorges and beautiful sandy beaches along the coast. Starting from Chiaramonte, we enjoy views of the wonderful Anapo valley that includes all the flora and fauna typical of Sicily. We continue to historic Ragusa Ibla, Palazzolo Acreide and Noto, with their Baroque architecture and Greek ruins, some of the best preserved in southern Italy. The trip ends in Siracusa, one of the most historic cities of the Mediterranean. Each hotel we visit offers a warm welcome, and we can savour delicious  Sicilian cuisine and enjoy relaxing on the beach surrounded by beautiful views.

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1
Start Chiaramonte Gulfi.

Day 2
Ride through baroque villages to the Anapo Valley, site of ancient Pantalica. Explore the valley; transfer back to Chiaramonte.

Day 3
Ride south to Ragusa Ibla, a beautful old town with superb churches, then climb back to another Baroque town, Palazzolo Aceide, site of the Greek city of Akrai

Day 4
A leisurely circular ride through beautiful country over gentle hills and past typical white stone walls, rewarded with wonderful views of the Tellaro Valley.

Day 5
Ride to Noto, universally recognised as the capital city of the Baroque style, with wonderful imposing architecture mixed with hidden courtyards.

Day 6
Short optional ride to Vendicari sandy beach and Nature Reserve, a paradise for several African migratory species - excellent for bird-watching and a relaxing swim in the crystal clear waters. Return to Noto.

Day 7
Ride over hills and along the coast to historic Siracusa, once one of teh great cities of the Mediterranean. The highlight is walking through the ancient alleyways on Ortigia, a small island which was the original site of Siracusa.

Day 8
End Siracusa.