Day 1 -  Welcome to Sicily!
Arrive in Catania and transfer on your own to Milazzo where you will get settled on the boat. We will review the tour notes while enjoying a cocktail and dinner on the boat.
Dinner is included.

Day 2 – On to Lipari for a bike around the island.
Bike the perimeter of Lipari, with stunning views of the sea and nearby islands. Lipari is the largest of the seven islands with a population that pushes 20,000 in the busy season of the summer. Because of its strategic position, it became a favorite location for trade (beginning with obsidian) and a strong hold for militaries and empires of many countries over the centuries – Greeks, Etruscans, Arabs, Saracens, Normans, Spanish, and Rome.
Breakfast is included today.

Day 3 – Explore the islands of Salina and Panarea
Today we will bike around the island of Salina and along the way will enjoy a taste of the famous Malvasia wine. This will also be chance to taste and purchase a treasure of the island – capers.
Once back on the boat, we will transfer to the island of Panarea, one of the smaller islands in the chain. This charming island is home to nearly 300 residents and has caught the attention of some celebrities.
We will have wonderful dinner together.
Breakfast and dinner included.

Day 4 – Hike on Stromboli
A day off the bikes with an adventure on foot. We will hike the volcano of Stromboli – the most active volcano of the archipelago. The volcano shows signs of constant activity with mild and medium eruptions/explosions. This activity is not harmful and allows for a hike with our volcanologist to better understand the volcanoes of this region. The views from here are spectacular. Along the way we will stop for a picnic lunch.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included today.

Day 5 – Hike Vulcano’s volcano
Another hike to compare the difference between two neighboring volcanoes, although this one has not shown any activity since the late-1800′s. The Roman name for this island is the basis for the word now used in most modern European languages for volcano.
Breakfast and a picnic lunch are included.

Day 6 – Back to Sicily for a tour of Taormina
After breakfast we will transfer to Sicily and on to the lovely city of Taormina. You will become familiar with this beautiful place with a guided tour. Many shops and restaurants line the stone streets, so you can take your time shopping and eating on the way back to the hotel.
Breakfast is included today.

Day 7 – Bike the foothills of Mt. Etna
Today enjoy a beautiful route in the Randazzo region at the base of Mt Etna. You will bike through lush landscapes dotted with gardens and farms. We will take you to one of our favorite delis (owned by our friends Pippo and Letitsia) where you can choose from an array of pistachio products grown in the area. Tonight we will enjoy our last dinner together and share our favorite moments from the tour.
Breakfast and dinner are included.

Day 8 – Departure Day
After breakfast, we will end the tour. Ciao!
Breakfast is included.

Actual tour itinerary may vary slightly due to unforeseen circumstances.

Click on any photo to enlarge it.

On this trip, the accommodations are all on the boat!

Tour accommodations will be based on availability and the time of year. Once you have made your final payment for the tour, we will send you a confirmation letter that includes daily accommodations and contact information.

Travel notes

The suggested airport for the tour is Catania, which is easily accessible by airlines from Rome, Milan and other Italian cities. Low-cost airlines are offering good deals to Catania.

Level of difficulty: Moderate

You know… Sicily and the Aeolian Islands are hilly! The tour is developed among ancient volcanoes, totally covered by vegetation and towns. The roads are continuously up and down, which provides spectacular views. For those needing a break during the ride, know that there is van support available.

Books

• Divorce, italian style 1961, film director: Pietro Germi. This movie It won the Academy Award for Best Writing, Story and Screenplay.
• Anni difficili 1948, film director Luigi Zampa, from the novel of Vitaliano Brancati, “II vecchio con gli stivali”
• Gente di rispetto 1975, film director Luigi Zampa, from the homonymous novel of Giuseppe Fava
• Kaos 1984, Paolo and Vittorio Taviani, from several novels of Luigi Pirandello
• The star maker or best known as L’Uomo delle stelle 1995, Giuseppe Tornatore

Group tour price

• € 3450 per person 4-5 people
• € 3250 per person 6-7 people
• € 3150 per person 8 people

If guests do both the Amalfi Bike & Boat and the Sicily Bike & Boat (June 8 – 23, 2012 or September 14 – 29, 2012) we will give a 5% discount.

Additional options and fees

• Road bike rental €175.00
• Single Room supplement: € 1950

Services included in the tour:

• 7 nights accommodations based on double occupancy – five nights on the boat and two nights in Taormina at a 3 and 4-star hotel
• 7 breakfasts
• 2 picnic lunches
• 4 dinners included
• Daily Happy hour cocktail on the boat
• Guided tour of Taormina
• Guided tour with volcanologists on Stromboli and Vulcano
• An Italian English-speaking guide
• Overnight transfer to Milazzo for those who decide to also join the Bike & Boat Amalfi tour directly before the Bike & Boat Sicily Tour

Not included

• Airfare
• Transfers between Catania airport and Milazzo, Taormina to Catania airport

Self-guided option

This Sicily boat and bike tour is not available as a self-guided option.

Tour code

SBB

Day 1 – Welcome to the Amalfi Coast!
We will begin the tour in Naples, an energetic city on the coast. Discover this place with a guided tour of the city in the afternoon. Naples is considered to have some of the best pizza of Italy. Enjoy!
Dinner is included tonight.

Day 2 – Visit Pompeii for a guided tour of this ancient site
Today we will transport you to Pompeii for a guided tour and time on your own to explore this magnificent site. We will then transfer you to the boat for a light lunch and time to arrange your cabin and adjust your bike. The boat will take us to the port of Sorrento where we will bike the area around Sorrento. There are many café options for dinner. Then back to the boat to relax and rest for tomorrow’s bike ride.
Breakfast and lunch are included today..

Day 3 – Bike from Sorrento to Amalfi
Enjoy this day with routes winding along the Amalfi Coast. We will begin in Sorrento and make our way through the villages of Positano and Praiano where we will end up in the town of Amalfi. Enjoy dinner on your own tonight in Amalfi.
Breakfast is included today.

Day 4 – Hike the Path of the Gods
Explore the Amalfi Coast on foot as we enjoy a walk along the Path of the Gods. This breathtaking walk will give you a panoramic view of the sea, landscape, and villages surrounding the area. This will be a memorable day. We will stop along the way for a picnic lunch.
Breakfast and picnic lunch included today.

Day 5 – Bike from Amalfi to Cetara
We will again bike along the sea as we leave the town of Amalfi and make our way to Cetara. Once we rejoin the boat, enjoy a relaxing transfer toward the Island of Capri. Tonight we will have a gourmet dinner on the boat where fresh seafood will be featured.
Breakfast and dinner will be included today.

Day 6 – Experience the Islands of Capri and Procida
Today we will explore the quieter parts of Capri as we walk along alleys and hiking paths to the Villa Freschen and the Castle of Tiberius. We will also learn to make the famous cake of this Island the Caprese Cake made with dark chocolate and almonds. Unforgettable! We will move onto Procida and get a good night sleep for an early morning excursion.
Breakfast is included.

Day 7 – Enjoy the fishing village of Procida
We will begin with a walk around the charming island of Procida. Refresh with a granita or sandwich from the Il Postino restaurant, where the movie of the same name was filmed. We will share a great dinner on the boat in the Castellammare Port as we remember the experiences of the tour.
Breakfast and dinner included today.

Day 8 – Departure day
Enjoy breakfast on the boat, end the tour, and departure. Ciao!
Breakfast included.

Actual tour itinerary may vary slightly due to unforeseen circumstances.

Click on any photo to enlarge it.

On this trip, the accommodations are all on the boats!

Click on any photo to enlarge it.

Tour accommodations will be based on availability and the time of year. Once you have made your final payment for the tour, we will send you a confirmation letter that includes daily accommodations and contact information.

Level of difficulty: MODERATE.

This group trip is suitable for regular bikers who are in good general physical condition. All rides are moderate with steady ups and downs. For this trip we require a cycling experience. The rides have some climbs that need some experience in managing the gears and a reasonable capacity to ride on climb, which means there are also some wonderful downhills. The trip includes very scenic routes and the service of the van support, which allows you time to rest, if needed. Our guide will be there when you need, and will be happy to support you.

Airflight: The beginning airport for the tour is NAPLES.

Naples has an international airport which has flights arriving from throughout Italy. There are a number of low cost airlines flying into Naples including Alitalia, EasyJet, Air One, Air Berlin, Air Italy. Here the links of the airport website where you can get the airlines company internet address most convenient for you: NAPOLI.

Suggested Readings and Famous Writers:

• George Norman Douglas, Siren Land
• Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Italian Journey
• Henry James, Italian Hours

What to taste:

Don’t miss the “limoncello” in the Amalfi Coast. This is an easy and inexpensive to produce requiring only sugar, water, lemon zest, alcohol, and time to mature.

Group tour price

• € 3450 per person 4-5 people
• € 3250 per person 6-7 people
• € 3150 per person 8 people

If guests do both the Amalfi Bike & Boat and the Sicily Bike & Boat (June 8 – 23, 2012 or September 14 – 29, 2012) we will give a 5% discount.

Pricing philosophy

Additional options and fees

• Road bike rental €175.00
• Single Room supplement: € 1950

Services included in the tour:

• 7 nights accommodations: one night in a hotel in Naples, six nights with double occupancy on the boat
• 7 breakfasts
• 2 picnic lunches
• 3 dinners
• Daily Happy hour cocktail on the boat
• Overnight transfer to Milazzo/Lipari for the optional second week of the Aeolian Islands Bike and Boat Tour
• Entrance fee and guided tour of Pompeii
• Guided tour of Naples
• An Italian English-speaking guide

Not included

• Airfare
• Transfers from Naples to Castellammare port

Self-guided option

This tour is not available as a self-guided option.

Tour code

ABB

Day 1 – Welcome to Sicily!

Arrive Palermo by coordinated shuttle from Palermo Falcone – Borsellino Airport and enjoy a guided tour of the city the first afternoon (3:00 p.m.). Palermo has so much to see – beautiful churches, lively food markets, and amazing architecture. Dinner is on your own tonight.

Day 2 – Transfer to western Sicily with a stop at a Marsala winery. (8.8 miles/14.7 km)

From Palermo, a private shuttle will transfer you near the town of Mazara del Vallo, where you will stay in a comfortable 5 star hotel. Along the way we’ll stop in the beautiful, little town of Marsala and then enjoy a guided tour of a winery for a taste of the popular Marsala wines. Upon our arrival at the hotel that afternoon, we will review the itinerary of the bike tour in more detail and enjoy a gentle warm-up ride to get comfortable with your bicycle. Tonight, dinner will be included.

Day 3 – Tour of Mazara del Vallo, The Dancing Satyre, Cave di Cusa and Selinunte (30.1 miles/48.4 km)

Today, before biking, we will tour the beautiful harbor town of Mazara del Vallo. This is the home of the mysterious bronze treasure – The Dancing Satyr. You will enjoy a guided tour of the town and the museum housing the statue. From here we will bike on a lovely ride to the peaceful archaeological site of Cave di Cusa where we will enjoy a guided walk and picnic. These were quarries used for more than 150 years in the 6th Century BC. They were the main source of stone for the temples of Selinunte. We will then bike to the ancient Greek town of Selinunte, one of the most important Greek colonies in Sicily at that time. Here you will be guided through the remains of an acropolis and five temple sites, one of which has been re-erected. You will be transferred back to the hotel by shuttle. Dinner is on your own tonight.

Day 4 – Ancient Segesta and the Aeolian Islands (25.7 miles/42.9 km)

We leave the main island to get to the volcanic archipelago, the Aeolian Islands.
We’ll first cycle to Segesta, once the political center of the Elymians, one of three ancient inhabitants of Sicily. After a guided visit of the site and lunch, we’ll shuttle to Milazzo and then take a hydrofoil to Lipari, the largest island of the archipelago. We’ll stay in another comfortable 5 star hotel. Dinner is on your own tonight.

Day 5 – Lipari loop ride (16.3 miles/27.1 km)

Enjoy a loop ride on the island, giving us an opportunity to understand more
about the place and the archipelago. The views are outstanding and we expect that you will enjoy your bike tour of Lipari…and perhaps a granita (flavored ice) at our favorite place. This afternoon we are excited to offer a cooking class – a great way to learn and enjoy Sicilian-Aeolian Cooking and, then, dinner together.

Day 6 – Salina loop ride (13.7 miles/22.8 km)

We’ll take a ferry to the island Salina where we’ll take an amazing loop ride on our bikes. The first stop is small fishing village, Lingua, located along the Roman salt marsh. Here we will stop for a granita or coffee and perhaps a tour of the local museum. We’ll bike on, enjoying the breathtaking views, as we head to a private house to enjoy a glass of home made Malvasia wine and a light lunch. Dinner is on your own tonight.

Day 7 – Walking on the Vulcano’s volcano and back to the main island of Sicily

After breakfast, we’ll take the hydrofoil to Vulcano Island for a hike to the crater of the
volcano with our volcanologist. After lunch, we’ll transfer to Sicily to the beautiful town of Taormina. There will be a guided tour of the magnificent Greco-Roman amphitheatre – from here you will get a fantastic view of the Ionian Coast, Mt. Etna, and the city. The rest of the day is free to explore the city. Take a relaxing walk along the Corso Umberto with its classical music cafés, pastry shops, art galleries and clothing boutiques. Dinner is on your own.

Day 8 – Biking to Randazzo and to the Alcantara Gorge (28.4 miles/47.3 km)

After breakfast, a shuttle will take us to the starting point of the bike ride at Linguaglossa. This ride gently rolls along the north side of Mt. Etna volcano, which is amazing in the spring with the wild flowers covering the low sides of the volcano and spectacular in fall because of the rich brown colors of the vineyards. The scenery is accented with old ruins and lava stone walls outlining the fields and vineyards. We bike to the charming village of Randazzo, where we will have lunch at one of our favorite sandwich shops. After lunch enjoy a gentle downhill into the Alcantara Gorge – a beautiful end to the route and to our tour. A bus shuttle will take us back to our hotel in Taormina. We will enjoy a final dinner together tonight.

Day 9 – Departure Day or optional extension Hiking Mt. Etna

After breakfast, departure and end of our services. Ciao!
If you choose the Etna excursion you’ll be shuttled to the southeast side of the volcano for a walking tour.

Actual tour itinerary may vary slightly due to unforeseen circumstances.

Click on any photo to enlarge it.

 

 

Siciclando carefully chooses every aspect of a tour, including the accommodations.

Our choices are based on comfort and quality. We often choose hotels that are family-owned and operated because they provide a richer experience and because it is important to us to support the efforts of these individuals. We have developed relationships with many wonderful hotel operators. Here is a sample of the hotels on this tour.

• Lipari
• Mazara del Vallo
• Taormina

Tour accommodations will be based on availability and the time of year. Once you have made your final payment for the tour, we will send you a confirmation letter that includes daily accommodations and contact information.

Level of difficulty: Easy to moderate

Sicily is a hilly island, as is the Aeolian archipelago. For this reason we rate the tour between easy and moderate. The most difficult parts of the tour are in some stretches on the two loops in the Aeolian Islands (Lipari and Salina), which can be avoided by taking a van shuttle.The other moderate part of the tour is the hiking on Etna on day 8, which is an optional activity, a chance to discover the contrast between the forest and the lunar landscape of the volcano.The tour allows you to have a very good overview of Sicily from several points of view, in terms ofhistory, archaeology, and nature. You’ll also learn about the volcanic activity of the Mediterranean and its different aspects, in visiting the volcanoes of the Aeolian archipelago and Mount Etna.

Travel notes

Guests arrive by air in Palermo (see Italian airlines or international airlines) and depart from Catania.

Books

• Salvatore Quasimodo, poet and writer: Ed è subito sera, Giorno dopo giorno, Dare e avere. Modica
• Gesualdo Bufalino, novelist Diceria dell’untore (the plague sower), Le menzogne della notte (Night’s lies). Comiso
• Jacopo da Lentini (sec XIII), poet. Lentini
• Vitaliano Brancati, novelist: Don Giovanni in Sicilia, Il Bell’Antonio, Paolo il caldo. Pachino

Movies

• Divorce, italian style 1961, film director: Pietro Germi. This movie It won the Academy Award for Best Writing, Story and Screenplay.
• Anni difficili 1948, film director Luigi Zampa, from the novel of Vitaliano Brancati, “II vecchio con gli stivali”
• Gente di rispetto 1975, film director Luigi Zampa, from the homonymous novel of Giuseppe Fava
• Kaos 1984, Paolo and Vittorio Taviani, from several novels of Luigi Pirandello
• The star maker or best known as L’Uomo delle stelle 1995, Giuseppe Tornatore

Group tour price

• 4-5 people € 2880 per person
• 6-7 people € 2630 per person
• 8+ people € 2480 per person

Pricing philosophy

Additional options and fees

• Private room – € 390
• Road Bike rental – € 175
• Hiking on Mount Etna – € 90 per person
• Transfer from Palermo ARP to Palermo center on the arrival day
• Extention of the tour (pre and post trip)
• Transfer rates per person (two person minimum):
  • Palermo airport to Palermo center – € 40
  • Taormina to Catania airport – € 90

Included

• 9 days trip
• 8 nights in 3, 4 and 5 star Hotels
• 8 breakfasts
• 1 picnic lunch
• 3 dinners
• Hybrid bike rental
• D2: Coordinated transfer from Palermo to hotel near Mazara del Vallo
• D2: guided visit and wine tasting in Marsala
• D3: Admission to Selinunte archaeological site
• D3: private guide for Selinunte archaeological site
• D3: private guide for Cave di Cusa archaeological site
• D4: Admission to Segesta archaeological site
• D4: private guide for Segesta archaeological site
• D4: bus transfer from Segesta to Milazzo
• D4: hydrofoil transfer from Milazzo to Lipari island
• D5: cooking class in Lipari Island
• D6: professional guide for the Vulcano hiking
• D6: ferry transfer from Lipari to Salina
• D7: bus transfer from Milazzo to Taormina
• D8: guided walking tour with a private guide in Taormina
• D8: bus transfer from Taormina and Randazzo loop
• D7: hydrofoil from Lipari to Vulcano for hiking and then to Milazzo
• Detailed road book and maps
• 1 English speaking tour leader for all the tour (4 – 7 people) – 2 English speaking tour leaders all the tour (minimum 8 people)
• Van support all the tour

Not included

• Flights and public transportation
• Travel insurance
• Admissions and entrance fees (when not agreed with tour operator)
• Transport of bike case (for guests who bring their own bike)
• Gratuity to Tour Leader/s
• Expense of personal nature such as drinks, phone calls, etc.
• Any items that has not been mentioned in the price inclusions above

Self-guided option

This tour is not available as a self-guided option.

Tour code

SI

Day by Day program

Day 1 – Welcome to Catania, Sicily!

Arrive at the Catania airport on the eastern side of Sicily. We will transfer you to our starting point in Ragusa Ibla, a small baroque village south of Catania. Ragusa Ibla was abandoned until 15 years ago and is now considered a jewel of Sicily. It is a beautiful beginning our our journey. Tonight we will stay in a comfortable three-star hotel and our first dinner will be together.

Dinner included.

Day 2 – Bike through the Iblei countryside (34 miles/55 kilometers)

This wonderful ride takes you on a northern route that will give you a taste of authentic Sicily. Bike through the Catania province along the Iblei mountains, through citrus groves and along rolling hills to our comfortable hotel near the town of Vizzini.

Breakfast and dinner included.

Day 3 – Bike to Noto, the capital of Baroque architecture (44 miles/71 kilometers)

Today bike from the higher plateaus of the Iblei mountain range to the sweet town of Noto, on the coast of eastern Sicily. Along the way you will bike through the small hamlet of Testa dell-Acqua and the archeological site of Noto Antica (the ruins of old Noto before a devastating earthquake). View the ancient ruins including a castle that overlooks surrounding canyons. Tonight we will stay in Noto at a four-star hotel. We will enjoy dinner together tonight.

Breakfast and dinner are included.

Day 4 – Cycling from Noto to Syracuse (25 miles/42 km)

Cycle an easy route from Noto following the coastline to Syracuse. Enjoy the beautiful views of the sea and consider cooling off with a swim along the way. The afternoon allows for a chance to explore the city of Syracuse, built on an ancient Greek settlement founded by the Corinthians in 734 BC. We will stay in a hotel in Syracuse. Dinner is on your own tonight with many options to choose from in Syracuse.

Breakfast included today.

Day 5 – On to Taormina – no biking, optional hike of Mt Etna volcano

Today we will transfer by private shuttle to Taormina, the pearl of Sicily. For those interested in a hike of Mt Etna, we will stop along the way to Taormina. Mt Etna is spectacular as it towers over the land. It is the tallest active volcano in Europe, at almost 11,000 feet. For those not hiking Mt. Etna, you will go directly to Taormina for an interesting guided tour of the town. Tonight we will stay in a lovely three-star hotel in Taormina. Dinner is on your own tonight with many options to choose from in Taormina.

Breakfast included today.

Day 6 – Beautiful biking through Randazzo and Alcantara Gorges (28 miles/47 km)

After breakfast, we will take a private shuttle to Linguaglossa where we will begin a beautiful route through the countryside on the north side of Mt Etna. The rich colors of fall accentuate the charm of this area. Enjoy the small farms and private gardens separated by lava rock fences. Bike into the charming village of Randazzo, where we will stop at one of our favorite delicatessen shops – a great place to get pistachio products. After lunch we will experience a gentle downhill into the Alcantara Gorge; take it slow to fully enjoy the spectacular scenery along the way. We will enjoy another night in Taormina. This is the end of the tour for those joining us only for Week One. We will say farewell to them with a dinner together.

Breakfast and dinner included today.

Day 7/Day 1 – A continuation of the tour for some and we will be joined by some new faces.

No biking today. Transfer to Milazzo and a hydrofoil Vulcano Island and then to Lipari
After breakfast, we’ll transfer to Milazzo and take the hydrofoil to the Aeolian Islands, a volcanic archipelago north of Sicily. We will begin on Vulcano Island for a hike to the crater of the volcano with our volcanologist; an informative hike with spectacular views of the islands. We will then ferry to the island of Lipari where we will stay for three nights at a five-star hotel. Dinner is on your own tonight.

Breakfast included today.

Day 8/Day 2 – Bike a loop of Lipari Island (16 miles/27 km)

Get to know this lovely island with a loop ride that takes us along the sea. The views are outstanding and we expect that you will enjoy this ride. Enjoy a break at our favorite place for a café or lemon granita – refreshing and well-deserved. After biking, we will enjoy a cooking class preparing our dinner. This is a great way to learn and enjoy the cooking secrets of this region.

Breakfast and dinner are included today.

Day 9/Day 3 – Bike ride on the neighboring island of Salina (14 miles/23 km)

This morning we will take a ferry to Salina for a ride of another of the Aeolian Islands. Our first stop as we bike will be the small fishing village of Lingua, located along the Roman salt marsh. Here we will stop for a granita or coffee, perhaps a tour of the local museum. We will continue biking, enjoying the amazing views of Pollara. This is the location of the little house of Pablo Neruda in the Italian movie, The Postman. We will stop along the way for a light lunch as we taste the food, capers, and olive oil of this region. We will also taste the dessert wine of this area known as Malvasia. Dinner is on your own tonight in Lipari.

Breakfast included.

Siciclando
Day 10/Day 4 – Transfer to western Sicily near ancient Segesta – No biking today.

Today no biking; we will leave the peaceful Aeolian Islands and return to Sicily, going to the western side of the island. We will take a private shuttle bus to the archaeological site of Segesta where you will walk along cobblestone paths that take you past temples and foundations of a city from long ago. Then on to our hotel – an old farm that has been restored as a hotel. We will enjoy dinner together.

Breakfast and dinner are included today.

Day 11/Day 5 – Bike to Mazara del Vallo and The Dancing Satyre
(30 miles/50km)

Enjoy one of the most beautiful rides of the tour as you bike through the gentle countryside to the charming town of Mazara del Vallo. Here we will visit the Dancing Satyre, an old bronze statue that was found on the bottom of the sea and restored. It is a worthwhile visit. Tonight we will stay in a five-star hotel near the town of Mazara del Vallo. We will enjoy dinner together at the hotel restaurant.

Breakfast and dinner are included today.

Day 12/Day 6 - Enjoy a lovely bike route inland to Selinunte (21 miles/35 km)

Today’s biking will take you along scenic routes past fields and sea to the archeological sites of Cave di Cusa and Selinunte. Cave di Cusa is an abandoned quarry that provided the tall columns of Selinunute’s majestic temple. Both sites offer interesting glimpses into the past cultures and settlements of this area. Dinner is on your own tonight.

Breakfast included today.

Day 13/Day 7 - Transfer to Palermo for a guided tour of the city and our last night together – no biking today

We will take a private shuttle to the capital of Sicily and discover its mystery and intrigue during a guided walking tour of the city. We will enjoy our final dinner together before departing tomorrow after breakfast.

Breakfast and dinner are included today.

Actual tour itinerary may vary slightly due to unforeseen circumstances.

Click on any photo to enlarge it.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Siciclando carefully chooses every aspect of a tour, including the accommodations. Our choices are based on comfort and quality. We often choose hotels that are family-owned and operated because they provide a richer experience and because it is important to us to support the efforts of these individuals. We have developed relationships with many wonderful hotel operators. Here is a sample of the hotels on this tour.

• Ragusa
• Vizzini
• Segesta
• Mazara

Tour accommodations will be based on availability and the time of year. Once you have made your final payment for the tour, we will send you a confirmation letter that includes daily accommodations and contact information.

Option 1 Tour Map

 

Option 2 Tour Map

Option 3 Tour Map

Travel notes

Airport: for this trip you can use both of the airports in west Sicily to land and to leave the island: Palermo and Trapani Birgi

Books & Movies

• Divorce, italian style 1961, film director: Pietro Germi. This movie It won the Academy Award for Best Writing, Story and Screenplay.
• Anni difficili 1948, film director Luigi Zampa, from the novel of Vitaliano Brancati, “II vecchio con gli stivali”
• Gente di rispetto 1975, film director Luigi Zampa, from the homonymous novel of Giuseppe Fava
• Kaos 1984, Paolo and Vittorio Taviani, from several novels of Luigi Pirandello
• The star maker or best known as L’Uomo delle stelle 1995, Giuseppe Tornatore
• Il Postino, the movie
• The Leopard, a book by Giuseppe Tomasi di  Lampedusa
• That Summer in Sicily by Marlena de Blasi
• A Sicilian Odyssey by Francine Prose

Group tour price

Option ONE:

• 4-5 people € 2280 per person
• 6-7 people € 2160 per person
• 8+ people € 1930 per person
• Single room Supplement: € 280

Option TWO:

• 4-5 people € 2880 per person
• 6-7 people € 2630 per person
• 8+ people € 2480 per person
• Single room Supplement: € 360

Option THREE: This option is approximately €700 less than the sum of option one and two.

• 4-5 people € 3980 per person
• 6-7 people € 3830 per person
• 8+ people € 3750 per person
• Single room Supplement: € 570

What’s Included in this Tour?

Option ONE:

• 7 days trip;
• 6 nights in 3 and 4star Hotels
• 6 breakfasts
• 2 picnic lunch (D3 and D6)
• 4 dinners
• Hybrid bike hire
• D2: One coordinated transfer from Catania airport to Ragusa Ibla
• D8: bus transfer from Taormina and Randazzo loop
• D5: Private shuttle to Taormina
• D5: guided walking tour in Taormina

Option TWO:

• 8 days trip;
• 7 nights in 3,4 and 5 star Hotels
• 7 breakfasts
• 2 picnic lunch (D3 and D6)
• 4 dinners
• Hybrid bike hire
• D1: bus transfer from Taormina to Milazzo
• D1: hydrofoil transfer from Milazzo to Vulcano and Lipari
• D1: professional guide for the Vulcano hiking
• D2: cooking class in Lipari Island
• D3: ferry transfer from Lipari to Salina and back
• D4: hydrofoil from Lipari to Milazzo
• D4: Private Bus transfer from Milazzo to Segesta
• D4: Admission to Segesta archaeological site
• D4: private guide for Segesta archaeological site
• D6: Admission to Selinunte archaeological site
• D6: private guide for Selinunte archaeological site
• D7: Private Bus transfer from near Mazara del Vallo to Palermo
• D7: Guided walking tour in Palermo
• Detailed road book and maps
• 2 English speaking tour leader all the tour (minimum 8 pax)
• Van support all the tour

Option THREE:

• 15 days trip;
• 14 nights in 3, 4 and 5 star Hotels
• 14 breakfasts
• 4 picnic lunch (D3, D6, D9, D12)
• 8 dinners
• Hybrid bike hire
• D2: One coordinated transfer from Catania airport to Ragusa Ibla
• D8: bus transfer from Taormina and Randazzo loop
• D5: Private shuttle to Taormina
• D5: guided walking tour in Taormina
• D7: bus transfer from Taormina to Milazzo
• D7: hydrofoil transfer from Milazzo to Vulcano and Lipari
• D7: professional guide for the Vulcano hiking
• D8: cooking class in Lipari Island
• D10: ferry transfer from Lipari to Salina and back
• D11: hydrofoil from Lipari to Milazzo
• D11: Private Bus transfer from Milazzo to Segesta
• D11: Admission to Segesta archaeological site
• D11: private guide for Segesta archaeological site
• D13: Admission to Selinunte archaeological site
• D13: private guide for Selinunte archaeological site
• D14: Private Bus transfer from near Mazara del Vallo to Palermo
• D14: Guided walking tour in Palermo

The price does not include: 

• Flights and public transportation
• Travel insurance
• Admissions and entrance fees (when not agreed with tour operator)
• Gratuity to Tour Leader/s
• Expense of personal nature such as drinks, phone calls, etc.
• Any items that has not been mentioned in the price inclusions above

Optional services not included in tour price

• Transfer from Palermo ARP to Palermo center on the arrival day
• Bike hire (with use of helmet, puncture repair kit, pump and spare inner tube)
• Extension of the tour (pre and post trip)
• Single occupancy accommodation
• Hiking extension on Etna volcano

Day 1: Welcome to Sardinia!
Arrive at the Cagliari airport where you will be transferred to your first accommodation and be briefed on the walking tour. Dinner is included.

Day 2: Two walking options to begin the tour – Easy Option – Loop of Sanna Mines

A gentle start to your walking holiday, beginning at La Miniera Fiorita and following old miners’ trails past abandoned buildings and through lush vegetation. As the route is not overly long, you have plenty of time to explore the fascinating old zinc and lead mines – mineshafts with their original equipment, former factories, and workers’ villages, all set amid lush oak woods. It is likely that you will see some Sardinian deer during your walks. In the afternoon you can visit the museum in Montevecchio, which offers a historical account of the mining tradition of this area. (5 miles/8 kilometers, 3hrs)  Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

Medium Option – Loop walk  Mt Arcuentu

Begin your tour by exploring the Mt Arcuentu range, a volcanic range that rises quite dramatically from the Campidano Plans. After a short transfer, the walk starts on a gentle path that becomes steeper as you reach the sacred basalt summit. A shrine nestled in the dense oak wood and the surrounding views make it a truly remarkable place. Descend across pasture land all the way to your accommodation in Montevecchio. (6.2 miles/10 kilometers, 4hrs) Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

Day 3: Hike from Montevecchio to Piscinas
Today walk towards the coast on gently meandering footpaths through dense shrub and past shepherd holdings. The path reaches Riu Irvi, an iron-colored stream that you will cross several times before reaching the majestic sand dunes of Piscinas, one of the biggest in Europe that stretches for several miles along the coast. Coated in juniper and Mediterranean scrub, the dunes reach heights of up to 164 feet/50 meters in places. A short section will lead you to your next accommodation. (9.63 miles/15.5 kilometers, 5hrs) Breakfast and lunch included.

Day 4: Rest day
You choose – perhaps time to relax or another day exploring the sand dunes. Breakfast is included today.

Day 5: From Piscinas to Sibiri
Your walk today will take you along a river upstream through a small canyon before rising through Mediterranean scrub to join an abandoned railway. Pass buildings which reflect the richness of the past industry of this area including the Brassey washery, named after its English owner, the Viscount of Brassey. You may also explore Pozzo Gal, a well preserved shaft recently opened as a multi-media museum. Walk through Ingurtosu Village where you can admire the interesting architecture of the Administrative offices. Take a network of goat trails that will lead you to Bidderdi Pass and towards Mt Linas range to your next Agritourism accommodation. Here another delightful meal awaits you. (12.43 miles/20 kilometers, 5 1/2hrs) Breakfast and lunch included today.

Day 6: Hike Sibiri to Fluminimaggiore
Starting from the Agriturismo, you will take the mountain trail close to Mt Linas. This route was once the “smugglers way,” used by cattle thieves to transport their stolen animals down to the coast. The initial climb is gradual, following a tight valley and narrow stream, then walking through mountain pastures and meadows, and finally reaching Planucheddu (2,067 feet/630 metres) from where you will experience breathtaking 360-degree views of the Sulcis Iglesiente mountain range.  Take time to fully absorb the vista and catch your breath, before embarking on a rewarding 6.2 mile/10 Km descent into the sleepy town of Fluminimaggiore. This is the first time during this trip that you come into a village. After a short coffee break and a quick visit of the interesting wall paintings known as “murales”, the last section of walk is towards the coast. The route will take you along the fertile Flumini Valley – with country lanes, olive plantations and vineyards — gradually taking you to your next Agriturismo. (12.43 miles/20 kilometers, 6 hrs). Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

Day 7: Loop walk of Fighezia and Portixeddu beach
Your final day walk will lead you to the coast again and the long sandy beach of Portixeddu. Here you have the option to take an easy stroll along the coast towards Buggerru or to follow the trails along the rocky promontory towards Capo Pecora. Your final hotel is set in a stunning location with terrace views of Portixeddu and the lush green mountains of La Costa Verde, an idyllic way to end this trip. (7.5 miles/12 kilometers, 4 hrs) Breakfast and lunch included today.

Day 8 – Departure Day
After breakfast we will transfer you to the airport for your flight home. Breakfast is included.

Ciao!

Actual tour itinerary may vary slightly due to unforeseen circumstances.

Coming soon.

 

 

Level of Difficulty: Moderate

With an average daily distance of 48 km and climb of 478 m, we classify this tour as moderate plus. Days 1, 4 and 5 are easy with a climb below 230 m, day 6 is moderate (climb 550 m). The two hardest days are 2 and 3 with an overall climb of 1050 and 700 m respectively.Over 90% of the total distance develops on secondary paved roads with very limited motorized traffic. The rest is on compact unpaved roads. 

Why This Tour

All islands have a peculiar fascination, and Sardinia is no exception. Lying a little less than 200km from the Italian mainland and at same distance from the Tunisian coast, Sardinia is often a pleasant surprise to the curious traveller.The tour develops in the fascinating South-West of the island, an area formerly interested by mining activity that has kept mass tourism away. Nowadays mining has stopped leaving unspoilt beaches and a glorious undeveloped coastline to enjoy during this week long “Off the beaten track” bike tour.You will find at least one beautiful pristine beach every day and also dramatic cliffs and numerous lagoons which accounts for a rich diversity of wildlife, as do the forested mountains and the wild macchia that carpets the interior.The sand dunes of Piscinas (some of the highest in Europe), the imposing rock of Pan di Zucchero and the Costa del Sud are just some of the scenic highlights of this tour.The Phoenician and Roman settlements of Tharros, Sant’Antioco and Nora are a must for those interested in archaeology.

Travel Notes

The reference airport for the tour is Cagliari. Low-cost airlines are offering good deals from London to Sardinia.Easyjet flies daily from London Luton to Cagliari and Ryan airoffers a daily connection (two flights from April to October) from Stansted to Alghero in Northern Sardinia.A dedicated bus service operates the route Alghero airport-Oristano-Cagliari. The bus leaves the airport half hour after the flight has landed. If the flight is late, the bus waits for the flight arrival. On arrival, you should take the bus down to Oristano. At the end of the tour, the same bus will take you from Cagliari to Alghero airport.More expensive alternatives to low-cost carriers are BA or Alitalia. They don’t fly direct and it is necessary to change in Rome or Milan.

Group tour price

• 4-5 people € 2030 per person
• 6-7 people € 1850 per person
• 8+ people € 1720 per person

Pricing philosophy

What’s included in the guided tour

• 7 nights accommodation on double occupancy basis (4 Agriturismo and 3 hotels)
• 7 breakfasts
• 5 packed lunches (sandwiches – fruit – snack – water)
• 4 dinners with wine included
• Arrival transfer from Cagliari Airport to Montevecchio
• Departure transfer: from Pula to Cagliari airport
• Luggage transfers
• Maps and road book provided

The price does not include:

• Flights and public transportation
• Travel insurance
• Admissions and entrance fees to sites
• Expense of personal nature such as drinks, phone calls, etc.
• Any items that has not been mentioned in the price inclusion part

Self-guided option

This tour is also available as a self-guided option at a cost of € 1155 per person. This option includes: 

Tour code

SAM

Day 1 – Welcome to Sardinia!

Following arrival in Cagliari we make the short transfer to your accommodation in the village of Nebida. The rest of the day is spent organizing bikes and going through the route notes – making sure all is well for your bike tour of Sardinia. Dinner is included tonight.

Day 2 – From Nebida to Calasetta – 17.4 miles/28 kilometers + optional 6.2 miles/10 kilometers on Carloforte Island

From Nebida start your trip with a great ride along the coast, leaving the rugged limestone and heading towards the lower lands and the Islands of St Pietro and St Antioco. You have a chance to give your legs a rest as you catch a ferry across to the island of St Pietro. Here the landscape and the culture are yet again different from what you have experienced so far. Carloforte was founded by the coral fishers of Genoa, who moved here from Tunisia where they had lived since the middle of the 16th century. This influence is felt in the architecture of the islands as well as the cuisine.  With its pastel-coloured houses set along narrow cobbled lanes it makes an interesting place to explore, stopping for a fine meal at one of the town’s good fish restaurants. The island is in fact well known for its fishing community, in particular the fishing of tuna.  Since ancient times, fishermen have awaited the arrival of schools of tuna that stream by along the same route, not far from the islands. Another short journey on a ferry will take you across to the island of St Antioco, where a short ride will take you to the town itself. Your accommodation for the night is in a delightful hotel on the coast. Breakfast and lunch are included today.

Day 3 – Exploring St Antioco Island – 28 miles/45 kilometers

Today it is dedicated to exploring the island of St Antioco. Riding along the coast, you reach St Antioco itself. It is worth spending a few hours to wander and visit some of the hidden archaeological sites of this ancient town. The development of the area in fact goes back to the Nuragic times, but truly thrived only when the Phoenicians founded it as “Sulcis” in 259 BC. Worth a visit is the Punic Necropolis and Thophet, as well as the Catacombs below the Church of St Antioco. Traveling south along the quiet roads, you will discover the rugged coastline and remote sandy coves that make this island unique. Your hotel is back at Calasetta. Breakfast and lunch are included.

Day 4  – From Calasetta to Teulada  – 29.8 miles/48 kilometers

Leaving the island across the bay of Palmas, you’ll be able to see a number of birds, including pink Flamingos. As we cycle on towards the Sulcis mountains, we pass agricultural land and scattered farms in the communities of Masainas. A short detour takes us to the stunning beach of Porto Pino. Here we have time to explore the little fishing hamlet and spend some time on the beach. Moving on, the landscape turns to hills and you will arrive at your next accommodation outside Teulada. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included today.

Day 5 – Biking Teulada to Santadi – 31.1 miles/50 kilometers

Leaving the Agriturismo we first head into Teulada, on the foothills of the Sulcis Mountains. From here we gradually climb past some remote farming hamlets. As you cycle past vineyard after vineyard, it will become obvious that you are entering the wine region of Santadi wines. Not far from here, we will visit the Caves of Is Zuddas with its varied chambers of limestone formations including stalactites and aragonites that are beautiful and unique. We stop for some wine tasting before riding on to Giba and the rolling fertile fields towards St Anna Arresi. Accommodation is at the same Agriturismo with another taste of excellent Sardinian food and wine. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are again included.

Day 6 – An exciting ride from Teulada to Pula- 28.6 miles/46 kilometers

Today offers some great cycling along a roller coaster road towards Pula, your next destination for this trip. The Costa del Sud is a wonderful route of twisting, turning road above rugged cliffs that plunge into the deep blue sea. There are many outlook points and small sandy coves to stop and enjoy the sea. Cala Tuerredda is one of the most stunning beaches along this coast, protected by two promontories. From here the road climbs away from the coast, dropping back toward the long sandy beach of Chia. A short detour to the right will take you to Chia tower, worth a visit for its spectacular view of Chia beach and the islands. The next section of biking follows the main road north, along a quiet coastal road, finally reaching the little town of Pula. The excellent Gelateria in the main town square, which serves homemade ice-cream, is a well deserved treat and reward after this today’s journey. Breakfast and lunch are included today.

Day 7 – Biking Pula to Nora – 15.5 miles/25 kilometers

Our last day of biking allows us to enjoy the area around Pula. We first bike down toward the coast, where we will explore the interesting Roman ruins of Nora, set in a stunning little bay. In 238 BC the Carthaginians ceded Sardinia to the Romans, who made it their province. Nora became the most important Phoenician town, and capital of the Roman province. Due to Saracen raids, the people were forced to move inland and Nora gradually fell into ruins. Today, it is an impressive site of the Carthaginian city with the Temple of Tanit, the goddess of fertility. From the Roman times you can see the ancient baths decorated with mosaics, paved roads, sewage systems and palaces. Riding on, we follow the coastline, biking past stunning beaches. Our return journey to Pula takes us through the tomato growing area of St Margherita di Pula. Breakfast, lunch, and a farewell dinner are included today.

Day 8 – Departure Day

After breakfast (which is included), you will be transferred to the airport/departure and end of our services. Ciao!

Actual tour itinerary may vary slightly due to unforeseen circumstances.

Siciclando carefully chooses every aspect of a tour, including the accommodations.

Our choices are based on comfort and quality. We often choose hotels that are family-owned and operated because they provide a richer experience and because it is important to us to support the efforts of these individuals. We have developed relationships with many wonderful hotel operators. Here is a sample of the hotels on this tour.

• Calasetta
• Teulada
• Pula

Tour accommodations will be based on availability and the time of year. Once you have made your final payment for the tour, we will send you a confirmation letter that includes daily accommodations and contact information.

Level of Difficulty: Moderate

With an average daily distance of 48 km and climb of 478 m, we classify this tour as moderate plus. Days 1, 4 and 5 are easy with a climb below 230 m, day 6 is moderate (climb 550 m). The two hardest days are 2 and 3 with an overall climb of 1050 and 700 m respectively.Over 90% of the total distance develops on secondary paved roads with very limited motorized traffic. The rest is on compact unpaved roads.

Why This Tour

All islands have a peculiar fascination, and Sardinia is no exception. Lying a little less than 200km from the Italian mainland and at same distance from the Tunisian coast, Sardinia is often a pleasant surprise to the curious traveller.The tour develops in the fascinating South-West of the island, an area formerly interested by mining activity that has kept mass tourism away. Nowadays mining has stopped leaving unspoilt beaches and a glorious undeveloped coastline to enjoy during this week long “Off the beaten track” bike tour.You will find at least one beautiful pristine beach every day and also dramatic cliffs and numerous lagoons which accounts for a rich diversity of wildlife, as do the forested mountains and the wild macchia that carpets the interior.The sand dunes of Piscinas (some of the highest in Europe), the imposing rock of Pan di Zucchero and the Costa del Sud are just some of the scenic highlights of this tour.

The Phoenician and Roman settlements of Tharros, Sant’Antioco and Nora are a must for those interested in archaeology.

Travel Notes

The reference airport for the tour is Cagliari. Low-cost airlines are offering good deals from London to Sardinia.Easyjet flies daily from London Luton to Cagliari and Ryan airoffers a daily connection (two flights from April to October) from Stansted to Alghero in Northern Sardinia.A dedicated bus service operates the route Alghero airport-Oristano-Cagliari. The bus leaves the airport half hour after the flight has landed. If the flight is late, the bus waits for the flight arrival. On arrival, you should take the bus down to Oristano. At the end of the tour, the same bus will take you from Cagliari to Alghero airport.More expensive alternatives to low-cost carriers are BA or Alitalia. They don’t fly direct and it is necessary to change in Rome or Milan.

Group tour price

• 4-5 people € 2120 per person
• 6-7 people € 1890 per person
• 8+ people € 1740 per person

Pricing philosophy

Additional fees:

• Hybrid bike hire (with use of helmet, puncture repair kit, pump and spare inner tube) € 100,00
• Any extra day hybrid bike hire € 15,00
• Road bike hire (with use of helmet, puncture repair kit, pump and spare inner tube) € 175,00
• Any extra day road bike hire € 25,00
• Single occupancy accommodation € 140,00
• Single traveler extra charge. It includes the single occupancy accommodation € 220,00
• Additional night/s in Cagliari per person € 50,00 to € 80,00, according to the B&B and Hotel
• Additional night/s in Pula – per person € 45
• Additional transfer of clients during the self-guided Biking that is not already included in the price, € 50 to € 120 according to the distance
• Solo traveller (referred to Self guided option) – € 120,00

Services included in the group guided tour:

• 7 nights accommodation on double occupancy basis (2 Agriturismo and 5 three star hotels)
• 7 breakfasts
• 4 dinners wine included
• 6 buffet style picnic lunches + snacks and fruit
• Arrival transfer from Cagliari Airport to Montevecchio
• Departure transfer: from Pula to Cagliari airport
• One English speaking guide on the bike
• One support vehicle and driver – luggage transfer
• Maps provided

Self-guided optionThis tour is also available as a self-guided optionat a cost of € 1.350 per person. This option includes:

• 7 nights accommodation on double occupancy basis (3 Agriturismo and 4 three star hotels)
• 7 breakfasts
• 4 dinners wine included
• Arrival transfer from Cagliari Airport to Montevecchio
• Departure transfer: from Pula to Cagliari airport
• Luggage transfers
• Maps and road book provided
• If hiring bikes- panniers and bike kit

Services not included (same for self-guided and group guided): 

• Flights and public transportation
• Travel insurance
• Admissions and entrance fees to sites
• Expense of personal nature such as drinks, phone calls, etc.
• Any items that has not been mentioned in the price inclusion part

Tour code

SAM