Self-Guided Cycling through Baroque Sicily
Description
Summary
Description
Immerse yourself in the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of Sicily on this captivating 9-day tour. From the enchanting Baroque architecture of Ragusa and Modica to the serene beaches of Pozzallo and the vibrant city life of Siracusa, this multi-day tour offers a diverse array of experiences. You'll explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, sample traditional Sicilian cuisine, and discover the region's unique flora and fauna. Along the way, you'll stay in luxury accommodations, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing journey. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a nature lover, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.
Included
Management by your local Headwater-appointed agent
Route directions and maps
High quality bikes
Luggage transfers between hotels
Sicily's typically southern Italian cuisine is interspersed with many more exotic dishes reflecting the island's jumbled cultural past. Italian dishes like pasta alla norma (made with tomatoes, aubergine and grated ricotta) are often found on menus along with couscous (a north African speciality), or even pasta con le sarde (a pasta dish dating back to Phoenician times made from sardines, raisins, pine nuts, fennel, saffron, parsley and capers).The Arabs introduced citrus groves to the island and a popular drink today is granita made with crushed ice and lemon. This was traditionally drunk with sweet bread dipped in it as a lunchtime snack by Sicilian peasants.Fish is of course also abundant. Local specialities include pesce spada alla ghiotta (swordfish cooked with tomatoes, capers, onion, celery and potatoes) or tonno fresco alla brace (grilled fresh tuna).Sicily is famed for its desserts. Why not try cannolo, a crunchy pastry tube filled with ricotta cheese and studded with candied fruits, pistachio and chocolate? Or cassata, the Arab influenced cake made with ricotta cheese, candied fruit and chocolate pieces.Sicily is not traditionally famous for its wines, so it is surprising to learn that the island boasts one of the largest wine producing areas in the whole of Italy. Look out for the Etna DOC label and Corvo di Salaparuta. One of Sicily's most popular wines is Alcamo Bianco - a soft white which goes well with fish dishes. Let's not forget the Marsala wine, a fortified wine made in Sicily which takes its name after the town where it is mostly produced. Marsala is most commonly used in cooking to create nutty, rich caramelised sauces.
You'll stay in a wonderful mix of accommodation including a charming villa hotel boasting fabulous views over Noto from its outdoor pool terrace and a minimalist design hotel in the centre of bustling Portopalo. Given the wonderful local cuisine on offer, including such Sicilian specialities as Pasta alla Norma and Pasta con le Sarde, we've included three evening meals on this holiday, leaving you free to dine out on the remaining nights.
hotel: 8 night(s);
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Ragusa
- Ragusa - Arrival day
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Begin your Sicilian adventure by checking into your luxurious 4-star hotel, De Stefano Palace (or similar), located in the heart of Ragusa. Settle in and enjoy a relaxing evening with a delicious half-board meal.
Day 2 – Day 2: Exploring Ragusa and Modica
- Ragusa
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- Giardino Ibleo
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Spend the morning exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ragusa Ibla, known for its stunning Baroque architecture. After lunch, ascend above Modica and pass through a fertile valley dotted with quaint farms. Your day ends at the verdant gorge of Cava d'Ispica. Overnight at the Hotel San Giorgio (or similar), breakfast included.
Day 3 – Day 3: Discovering Modica
Day 3: Discovering Modica
- Spiaggia di Randello - Randello Beach
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Spend the day in the atmospheric city of Modica, the Baroque capital of Sicily. Visit the city's impressive churches, wander through charming narrow streets, and sample the famous Modica chocolate at Antica Dolceria Bonajuto. Overnight at the Hotel San Giorgio (or similar), breakfast included.
Day 4 – Day 4: Journey to Pozzallo
Day 4: Journey to Pozzallo
Start your day with a scenic ride through a valley rich in pomegranates and cacti, heading towards the charming town of Scicli. Explore its atmospheric streets before continuing to the coastal town of Pozzallo, known for its beautiful Blue Flag beaches. Overnight at the Hotel Danieli (or similar), breakfast and evening meal included.
Day 5 – Day 5: Visit to Isola delle Correnti
Day 5: Visit to Isola delle Correnti
- Island of Ortigia
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Today, cycle through a series of saltwater lagoons rich in birdlife on your way to the Isola delle Correnti, the southernmost point of Sicily's mainland. This isolated island, where the Ionian and Mediterranean seas meet, offers a truly unique sight. Overnight at the Portopalo Suite (or similar), breakfast included.
Day 6 – Day 6: From Marzamemi to Noto
- Avola
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- Netum
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Cycle to the beautiful old fishing village of Marzamemi, one of Sicily's prettiest spots. Continue your journey to Noto, passing through olive groves, vineyards, and citrus orchards. Explore Noto's idyllic surroundings before checking into the Villa Favorita (or similar) for the night, breakfast and evening meal included.
Day 7 – Day 7: Relaxing in Noto
- Noto
- Avola
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Enjoy a leisurely day in Noto. You can choose to relax on the beach at the nearby seaside resort of Lido di Noto or explore the city itself, a Baroque masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Overnight at the Villa Favorita (or similar), half board included.
Day 8 – Day 8: Journey to Siracusa
- Noto
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- Cathedral of Syracuse
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Follow the coast to the stunning city of Siracusa, built on an ancient Greek settlement. On the way, pass through Avola, known for its famous Nero D'Avola red wine, and enjoy views of Mount Etna. Discover the flora and fauna of Plemmirio before arriving in Siracusa. Overnight at the Grand Albergo Alfeo (or similar), breakfast included.
Day 9 – Day 9: Departure from Siracusa
- Syracuse - Departure day
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Your Sicilian adventure comes to an end. Depart from Siracusa or choose to extend your stay in this vibrant city.
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