Sicily Grand Tour Walking & Hiking

Your Sicilian adventure begins at Palermo airport, from where we head west to enjoy a farm lunch. We then take a scenic walk along a forest track, offering panoramic views of a Greek temple from the IV century BC. We explore the secluded hilltop site of Segesta, known for its well-preserved Temple and a monolithic Theatre atop Monte Barbaro. The day concludes in the mountain-top town of Erice, one of Sicily's oldest settlements, where you can sample delicious almond pastries and soak up the stunning views.

From Trapani, we take a hydrofoil to the island of Levanzo. Here, we walk across the hinterland to the hidden Grotta del Genovese, a cave adorned with ancient graffiti dating back to 11-12 thousand years ago. We then explore the island, taking in views of the crystal-clear blue waters and the neighboring islands of Favignana and Marettimo. In the afternoon, we return to the charming town of Erice for further exploration.

We start the day with a spectacular drive to the Zingaro Nature Reserve, where we take a walk along the rugged Sicilian coastline, learning about the local traditions of tuna fishing and basket weaving. After lunch in a nearby village, we continue south to Agrigento, home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Valley of the Temples. We spend the next two nights in Agrigento.

We start the day with a pleasant beach walk to the unusual Scala dei Turchi promontory. In the afternoon, we visit the Museum of Agrigento, home to an excellent collection of artefacts and temple decorations. We then walk through the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where we discuss Greek civilization and the city's ancient history.

We drive to Piazza Armerina, known as 'the bread basket of Rome', where we visit the Roman Imperial Villa Casale, a UNESCO heritage site famous for its pictorial mosaic floors. After a pleasant walk and a gelato stop in the medieval town of Piazza Armerina, we end the day in Siracusa on Ortygia Island.

Enjoy a leisurely morning exploring the historic quarters of Ortigia, including the lively fish market. In the afternoon, we join a local guide in the archaeological park to explore the ruins, including a Greek quarry, theatre, sacrificial altar, and a Roman amphitheatre. Learn about Siracusa's history as the capital of Magna Graecia and the most powerful city of the ancient Greek world.

We head out for a vigorous walk in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pantalica, a marvel of archaeology and nature. This mysterious place is a deep limestone ravine carved out by the Anapo river, with thousands of rock-cut tombs on the steep cliffs. After exploring Pantalica, we enjoy a sunset coastal drive as we head to our next destination, the charming town of Taormina.

Enjoy a free day to explore the charming streets of Taormina, Sicily's most famous resort town. Visit the Greco-Roman amphitheater, do some shopping, or simply relax in a street café and watch the world go by. Don't miss the stunning views of Mount Etna, the most active and highest volcano in Europe.

We drive to Milazzo and catch a hydrofoil to Vulcano for the unforgettable experience of walking up a volcano and looking into the smouldering sulphurous crater. In the afternoon, we take a boat excursion to reach our accommodations in Panarea, the smallest of the Aeolian Islands.

We take a scenic circular walk around the island of Panarea, onto the ancient crater wall where a Bronze Age village has been discovered. In the afternoon, take a stroll around the village and enjoy an aperitif by the port as you watch the world go by.

We travel by hydrofoil back to mainland Sicily and visit the charming old quarters of Cefalù. Explore the Norman Cathedral and enjoy free time in this bustling fishing town. If you're feeling adventurous, join us for a walk up to the Rocca promontory, offering magnificent views of the harbour, town, and emerald blue sea.

We take a walk in the heart of the Madonie Mountains, an area of ancient traditions and breathtaking scenery. We stroll through the cobbled streets of Geraci Siculo, where time seems to have stood still. Our hiking trail climbs through pine forests to Pizzo Corvo, offering awe-inspiring views of Mt. Etna in the distance. We end the day in Petralia Soprana.

We depart from our hotel at 9.00 to transfer to Palermo Airport. We recommend booking flights departing after 14.00. If you wish, we can assist you in extending your stay or making other independent departure arrangements.