Day 1 – Welcome to Orvieto! Arrival on your own to Orvieto, one of the most beautiful small towns of Italy dramatically set atop vertical cliffs and surrounded by ancient defensive walls! Relax in this peaceful place
Our group will meet at 4:00 pm for a walking tour to better understand the 3,000 year history of this charming town.
Dinner is included today.

Day 2 – Transfer to Semproniano and a warm-up ride (13.2 miles/22 kilometers)
We will transfer from Orvieto to Semproniano, a little medieval town located in the Maremma region, among the hills of Albegna. The surrounding area is an example of a cultivated countryside covered with vineyards and olive groves.
Once in Semproniano, you’ll enjoy a light lunch at the hotel. We will have a brief introduction to the tour and a gentle warm up ride to get familiar with the bikes.
Breakfast and lunch are included today.

Day 3 – Biking the rolling hills of Tuscany and a cooking class (18.3 miles/30.5 kilometers)
A gentle rolling ride that takes you south to Sovana and Pitigliano, two of the most unique medieval towns in Italy. Enjoy Etruscan and Roman history told through incredible works of art: exquisite frescoes and paintings. Sovana is a jewel of Italy, a treasure chest of art and history, architecture and culture. Pitigliano is a village carved in tufa cliffs with a thousand caves and houses like towers situated on a prominent massive rock that is visible for miles. This charming town embraces and actively promotes its history. A wine and food tasting featuring local produce will complete the tour held in one of the many caves carved in the rock centuries ago.

In the afternoon our friends, Angela and Enrico, will introduce us to the local cuisine and take us through the preparation of a traditional Tuscan dinner using regional ingredients and original techniques. Buon appetito! We will stay in Semproniano again tonight.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included today.

Day 4 – To a lovely country hotel close to the medieval town of Scansano (22.86 miles/38.1 kilometers)
Today our destination is the resort hotel called Antico Casale di Scansano which offers a full range of amenities such as jacuzzi, sauna, massages and two outdoor swimming pools. The ride features spectacular views of the valley below where one sees grazing sheep and goats. The vineyards grow the Morellian grape, the local name for the red Sangiovese varietal which is the famous red wine from the Maremma area. Upon arrival at this rural resort Irene will greet us and show us our accomodation for two nights overlooking an equestrian centre and panoramic valley below from our terraces.
Breakfast is included today.

Day 5 – Down hill! (21 miles/35 kilometers)
After breakfast we glide down hill on a curving gradual sloping quiet road for 8 miles. Perhaps the best down hill of our trip. The first village we reach is Magliano in Toscana, surrounded by a wall built between the 13th and 15th centuries and allowing entrance into the village by one of three gates. Today’s ride will vividly demonstrates why we’re here – the superlative rural vistas which seemingly never end.

In the afternoon we will enjoy an olive oil tasting at the hotel hosted by Giorgio, a very expert olive oil producer of the area. A wonderful experience! We will spend another relaxing night at the countryside hotel.
Breakfast and dinner are included today.

Day 6 – Bike toward the sea (37.7 miles/62.8 kilometers)
After the spectacular down hill, a gentle rolling ride will take you toward the sea through the pretty village of Capalbio and ending our ride in a very charming resort of the area.
Breakfast and lunch are included today.

Day 7 – Bike to the beach of Talamone (20.22 miles/33.7 kilometers)
Experience the flat and quite road of the area toward the medieval town of Talamone, standing on a small promontory overlooking the Meditarranean sea. Here a small pretty beach to swim and feel the beauty of the sea. A picnic lunch is arranged for you today with local fresh products of the area.
Overnight in the resort for our farewell dinner together.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included today.

Day 8 – Departure Day
After breakfast, end of services and we will say our goodbyes. Ciao!

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.

• Semproniano
• Scansano
• Capalbio

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

The Tuscany Maremma bike routes are among beautiful hills, which means mostly gentle ups and downs. This tour is described as moderate to easy with an average 22 miles per day. Some days there is an optional extension of 18-24 miles for those interested and ready. This flexibility allows different levels of bikers a great tour at their preferred pace.

We will begin the tour with a warm up ride on day 2. Days 3 and 4 are nice loop rides along rolling terrain ending with gentle climbs to hilltop villages and offer extensions for those wanting a longer ride. Day 5 and 6 are gentle rides — note, day 6 is our longest ride of 38 miles and a gentle climb to the town of Magliano in Toscana. Day 7 is nice ride along the coast with an optional extension.

Travel notes

Airport: the trip is based on ROMA Fiumicino

Books

• Under the Tuscan Sun by Frances Mayes (now, also a movie)
  The true story of an American women who buys and restores an abandoned villa in the countryside of Tuscany. Follow along as she discovers the beauty of the simple Italian life.
• Bella Tuscany: The Sweet Life in Italy by Frances Mayes
  A continuation of the New York Times Bestseller Under a Tuscan Sun. Re-enter the world of Tuscany for more beautiful stories of this place and its people.
• In Tuscany by Frances Mayes
  The book begins with “Tuscany is a world; Italy is a universe.” See for yourself the observances of this wonderful place.
• On the Shore of the Mediterranean (Travel Narrative) by Eric Newby
  A sparkling observer and famously entertaining, Newby tackles the Mediterranean in the merry classic account of travels to North Africa, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Cairo, and Jerusalem.
• The Hill Towns of Italy by Richard Kauffman
  An oversize survey of the towns, people, and countryside of Tuscany and Umbria. It covers 13 classic towns in the region including Siena, Cortona, Perugia, Assisi and Orvieto. First published in 1983, the book is a good mix of handsome color photographs and insightful text.
• Central Italy, Tuscany and Umbria by Berrie Kerper
  A quirky, literary guide to the history, food, and landscape of Tuscany and Umbria – as presented in travel essays by writers foreign and local. With an extensive annotated bibliography for each section.
• The Tuscan Year, Tuscan Life and Food in an Italian Valley by Elizabeth Romer 1996
  An intimate portrait of life on a Tuscan farm, as seen primarily through the robust food. Romer captures the goings-on in the countryside, especially in the kitchen.
• A Thousand Days in Tuscany by Marlene de Blasi
  “Filled with warmth and the rich and simple drama of a beautiful life. The evocation of country dishes is mouthwatering, the lyrical beauty irresistible.” Susan Herrmann Loomis, author of Cooking at Home on Rue Tatin

Group tour price

• 4-5 people € 1870 per person
• 6-7 people € 1635 per person
• 8+ people € 1465 per person

Pricing philosophy

Additional options and fees

• Hybrid Bike rental – € 100 which includes 1 bike pannier per bike, helmets and a cycle computer.
• Road bike rental €175.00 which includes 1 bike pannier per bike, helmets and a cycle computer.
• Single occupancy for hotels € 240.00

Included

• 8 day tour
• 7 nights lodging in four comfortable hotels
• 7 breakfasts
• 4 dinners (D1,D3,D5,D7)
• 4 lunches (D2, D3, D6, D7)
• Olive oil tasting
• Walking tour of Orvieto (D1)
• Walking tour of Pitigliano (D3)
• 1 cooking class (D3)
• Wine tasting (D3)
• 1 massage at the spa
• Coordinated transfer IN (from Orvieto to Semproniano)
• Coordinated transfer back to the hotel on day 3
• Coordinated transfer back to the hotel on day 4
• One English speaking tour leader
• Van support throughout the tour

Not included

• Flights and public transportation
• Travel insurance
• Admission fees not mentioned above
• Personal expenses such as drinks, phone calls, etc.
• Gratuity of Tour Leader(s)

Self-guided option

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

Tour code

TM

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 air offers 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 € 1510 per person
• 6-7 people € 1330 per person
• 8+ people € 1210 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 € 1055 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 air offers 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

• 6-7 people € 1390 per person
• 8+ people € 1290 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

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 option

This tour is also available as a self-guided option at a cost of € 1.150 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

Day by Day program

Day 1 – Welcome to Sicily!

Arrive at Palermo’s Falcone-Borsellino Airport and transfer to your hotel in the city. For those arriving before 12:00 p.m., enjoy a guided tour of Palermo – winding streets, cathedrals, and markets. Dinner is on your own this evening.

Day 2 – Transfer to Scopello and Segesta with a bike ride to Trapani (27 miles/45 kilometers)

Begin the day with a shuttle ride to the charming fishing village of Scopello, enhanced by the beauty of the adjacent Zingaro Nature Reserve. You will also be shuttled to the ancient site of Segesta where you will enjoy a guided tour of the spectacular temple and amphitheater. You will be ready to bike a peaceful route from Segesta to the coastal town of Trapani, where we will stay for three nights. Dinner is together tonight.

Day 3 – Bike from Trapani to the lovely San Vito lo Capo (27 miles/45 kilometers)

Enjoy a bike ride north to the lovely San Vito lo Capo, a coast with Sicily’s most beautiful sandy beaches and secret coves welcoming you for a relaxing swim after your bike ride. There may be time to enjoy the delicious cake and gelato dessert known as “caldofreddo.” We will shuttle back to Trapani, relax and refresh, and enjoy another dinner together.

Day 4 – Cycle to the medieval town of Erice (33.6 miles/56 kilometers)

Bike ride to Erice for a visit of this beautiful medieval town known for its charming cobblestone streets and buildings. Spend some time in the shady garden overlooking the land and sea below. We will have a unique experience making our own Genovese cake at a local pastry shop…and yes, we will get to eat them! Bike back to Trapani where we will enjoy our last night in this town with a dinner together.

Day 5 – Boat ride to the island of Levanzo for a tour of the Caves of Genovese

Enjoy this special day with a relaxing boat ride to the quaint island of Levanzo, part of the Egadi Islands off the northwestern coast of Sicily. Our captain, a fisherman and resident of the small island, is an enjoyable man….one you will remember. We will enjoy a swim in the ocean and a picnic lunch. Once on land, we will explore the Caves of Genovese, prehistoric caves with engravings (dating back 11,000 – 12,000 years ago) and paintings (dating back 5,000-6,000 years ago). This is a unique experience that few know about or take the time to see; a day you will remember. Back to Trapani with dinner on your own.

Day 6 – Bike to Marsala with worthwhile side stops at the ancient salt marshes museum and the Island of Mozia ( 27.6 miles/46 kilometers)

Today we will bike along the coast to the quaint town of Marsala, our “home” for three nights. Along the way, we will take a break from our bikes and take a worthwhile excursion to the tiny Island of Mozia where we will see the amazing marble statue, The Boy of Mozia, a remarkable piece of art from 5th Century BC. The adjoining museum is a true treasure chest with relics from the many colonies that inhabited this island. Once back on the shore of Sicily, we will enjoy the salt mines and the wonderful “salt” museum, which explains the traditional mining method still done by hand, and wind, today. Tonight, our first night in Marsala with dinner on your own.

Day 7 – Bike to Mazara del Vallo with a visit of the town and The Dancing Satyr (25 miles/40.25 kilometers)

Pedal along the green fields and through olive groves of this lovely region. We will find a beautiful beach setting for a picnic lunch before going on to lovely little town of Mazara del Vallo. Here we will enjoy a guided tour that will also lead us to the museum of The Dancing Satyr, an enchanting bronze statue pulled from the sea in the 1990’s – the sculpture and the story of its discovery are amazing. Back to Marsala by van or bike. Our last night in Marsala. We will enjoy a farewell dinner together.as you make your way to Mazara del Vallo. Enjoy this lovely little town on a guided tour that will also lead you to the museum of The Dancing Satyr, an enchanting bronze statue pulled from the sea in the 1990’s – the sculpture and the story of its discovery are amazing. Back to Marsala by van or bike. Our last night in Marsala. We will enjoy a farewell dinner together.

Day 8 – Departure Day

After breakfast, departure and end of our services. Ciao!

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.

• Marsala
• Trapani

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

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

• 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 € 1990 per person
• 6-7 people € 1840 per person
• 8+ people € 1690 per person

Pricing philosophy

Additional options and fees

• Road bike rental €175.00
• Single occupancy for hotels € 240.00

Services included in the tour:

• 8 day tour
• 7 nights lodging in three comfortable hotels
• 7 breakfasts
• Picnic lunches on Days 5, 6 and 7
• 4 dinners
• Cooking the Genovese cake in Erice
• Hydrofoil tickets on Day 5
• Fisherman boat excursion on Day 5 with lunch included
• Sail boat excursions on Day 6 with lunch included
• Hybrid bike rental
• Transfer from Palermo airport to hotel
• Guided walking tour of Palermo
• Transfer from Palermo to Scopello and Segesta
• Admission and guided walking tour of Segesta
• Transfer from San Vito lo Capo to Trapani
• Transfer between Trapani hotel and port
• Boat ride and admission of Mozia
• Admission to salt mine museum
• Guided walking tour of Mazara del Vallo and admission to The Dancing Satyr museum
• Detailed road book and maps
• One English speaking tour leader
• Van support throughout tour

Not included

• Flights and public transportation
• Travel insurance
• Admission fees not mentioned above
• Personal expenses such as drinks, phone calls, etc.
• Gratuity of Tour Leader(s)

Self-guided option

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

Tour code

SB

Day 1 – Welcome to Naples, Italy!

Arrive on your own in Naples. Enjoy a guided tour of this fascinating city in the afternoon (3:00 p.m.).

Day 2 – Hike Mt. Vesuvius, visit to Herculaneum and private shuttle to Maratea

Today, before we leave Naples, we’ll enjoy a gentle hike of Mount Vesuvius volcano with our volcanologist to guide you. Onto the archaeological site of Herculaneum for a guided tour of this city devastated by the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 A.D. This day will offer a glimpse into the culture 1,000 years ago. A unique opportunity.

We will coordinate your transport to Maratea, where we will begin the biking portion of the tour.

Day 3 – Biking to Palinuro (33.12 miles/55.2 kilometers)

A mostly gentle ride, with some climbs along the coast at first and then later inland. Our bike route will take you to Palinuro. This first section of the ride will give you a beautiful view of the Gulf of Policastro. Then we cycle inland, around the eastern part of Mount Bulgheria, an impressive block of limestone. We’ll pass a number of charming villages and will have time to enjoy an Italian coffee or cappuccino. Then we’ll reach the entrance of the Mingardo Canyon, dominated by the abandoned village of San Severino. Soon after we’ll ride downhill to Palinuro, nestled in a dramatic and beautiful seaside setting.

Day 4 – Boat excursion and bike ride to the farm (19.95 miles/33.25 kilometers)

This day starts with a boat excursion to enjoy some of the grottoes and perhaps… a swim.

After the boat trip you will bike to Pisciotta and Ascea.

Some stretches include a climb that will take you in land. Here we will be stay in a comfortable agriturismo inn with an olive field (olive oil and wine are produced here).

Day 5 – Two options: Bike loop rides of Cilento National Park or the Campania countryside – (12.69 miles/21.25 kilometers for the short loop or 49.08 miles/81.8 kilometers for the long loop)

Today you have a choice of a bike loops.

The longer one will allow you to enjoy some little towns inside of the Cilento National Park. Along the loop you’ll bike along one of the finest coasts of Italy with alternating views of the charming seaside and medieval villages. We’ll have some superb views overlooking both the southern coast, towards Palinuro, as well as the Gulf of Salerno and the Amalfi Coast. As we get to Acciaroli, we can stop for a coffee in this little sea village where Earnest Hemingway spent so much time.

The shorter bike loop will take you along a quiet secondary road close to the farm. You’ll pass through some small villages and will enjoy large views of the valleys. This is the perfect choice if you want to ride a bit and enjoy some time at the farm too.

Day 6 – Bike the ‘heart of the Cilento’ and visit ancient Paestum (43.25 miles/72.1 kilometers)

The bike ride today will take us to Paestum. We’ll begin with a climb and will pass through small villages such as Moio della Civitella, Stio, Magliano, Monteforte Cilento. The route then continues, without much climbing, through the heart of the Cilento National Park, with beautiful mountainous scenery and thick forests. Along the way we’ll have some opportunities to stop for a rest and discovery. Then the route continues along the west side of an impressive mountain chain. The next section of cycling becomes easy, almost all downhill, taking us easily to the fertile plain of Paestum.

Day 7 – Tour Paestum and the Amalfi Coast (optional 5.4 miles/9 kilometers)

We will begin the day with a guided visit to the archeological sites of Paestum. We will take a break from biking and transfer by van along the Amalfi Coast to Praiano where the next hotel is located. Along the way we will stop for lunch in Salerno, gateway to the Amalfi Coast. After lunch enjoy a tour of the Amalfi Coast by boat. If you would like to bike from Amalfi to the hotel, you may – it is approximately 5.4 miles or 9 kilometers.

Day 8: Cycling Amalfi Coast and Punta Campanella (31.7 miles/52.85 kilometers)

Today we’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the dramatic ‘Strada Amalfitana’, along the Amalfi Coast. A short ride will take us to Positano, the most scenic of the villages on the coast. After Positano the coast becomes wilder and more rugged, some stretches we will climb and then take a break. We will continue onto Colli di San Pietro, a ridge that separates the Amalfi Coast from the rest of the Sorrentine Peninsula. Our loop will continue to Sorrento and towards the very end of the peninsula: Punta Campanella. Lunch will be enjoyed in Sorrento, a popular tourist area. On the way back to our hotel we’ll enjoy the sunset along the Amalfi Coast — a wonderful experience!

This is definitely one of the nicest bike rides in the world and certainly the best way to end a terrific Siciclando Bike Tour of the Amalfi Coast and Cilento National Park in Italy!

Day 9 – Departure Day

End of our services after breakfast. 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.

• Maratea
• Ascea
• Praiano

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.

Click on any photo to enlarge it.

Level of difficulty: MODERATE

This group trip is suitable for regular bikers who are in good general physical condition. All rides are easy to moderate. For this trip we require a cycling experience. The climb to Mt.Vesuvius, at the beginning of the trip, is about 200 m uphill on a steep path. The rides have some stretches in climb that need a good experience in managing the gears and a reasonable capacity to ride on climb.The trip anyway includes several enjoyable bike rides on downhill and includes the service of the van support, which allows you to avoid the most difficult climbs. Our guide will be there when you need, and will be happy to support you.

Airflight

The reference 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 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.

Movies:

A Good Woman film directed by Mike Barker. The screenplay by Howard Himelstein is based on the 1892 play Lady Windermere’s Fan by Oscar Wilde. It is the third screen version of the work, following a 1925 Ernst Lubitsch silent film and Otto Preminger’s 1949 adaptation entitled The Fan.

It Started in Naples, film directed by Melville Shavelson and produced by Jack Rose from a screenplay by Suso Cecchi d’Amico based on the story by Michael Pertwee and Jack Davies. The film stars Clark Gable, Sophia Loren, Vittorio De Sica and an Italian cast.

Peperoni ripieni e pesci in faccia, film directed by Lina Wertmüller. The film stars F. Murray Abraham, Sophia Loren.

The Talented Mr. Ripley, film directed by Anthony Minghella. It is an adaptation of the 1955 novel by Patricia Highsmith, which was also filmed in 1960 as Plein Soleil. The Talented Mr. Ripley starred Matt Damon, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jude Law, Cate Blanchett.

Ciao, Professore! (original title Io speriamo che me la cavo, or “Me, Let’s Hope I Make It”), film directed by Lina Wertmuller. Comedy film about an elementary-school teacher from northern Italy who is sent by mistake to an impoverished town in the Naples region of southern Italy, where he must deal with vast cultural differences and teach chronically truant children who only respect violence and power.

Group tour price

• 4-5 people € 1990 per person
• 6-7 people € 1865 per person
• 8+ people € 1680 per person

Pricing philosophy

Additional options and fees

• Private room – € 230 (not available for self-guided trips)
• Hybrid Bike rental – € 100 (€ 18 each additional day), which includes 1 bike pannier per bike, helmets and a cycle computer.
• Road Bike rental – € 175 (€ 27 each additional day), which includes 1 bike pannier per bike, helmets and a cycle computer.

Services Included

• 1 English-speaking trip leader
• 8 nights in double rooms: 4 nights in 4 star hotel; 1 night in 3 star hotel; 3 nights in 4 star agriturismo inn
• 8 breakfasts
• 5 dinners
• Boat trip on day 4
• Guides for Naples on day 1, Vesuvius and Herculaneum on day 2, and Paestum on day 4
• Admission to Mt. Vesuvius and Herculaneum
• Baggage transportation between hotels
• Detailed route information and maps
• Van support

Services Not included

• Admission to museums and archaeological sites (unless specified above)
• Tickets for trains or any public transportation
• Wine or beverages
• Airfare
• Transfers to the starting point or from the finishing point unless specified; we can assist you in planning and arranging for any necessary shuttles
• Transport of bike case (for guests who bring their own bike)
• Personal expenses (laundry, personal supplies, phone calls, etc.)
• Gratuity

Self-guided option

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

Tour code

AB