 |
|
|
|
|
|
Capturing the allure of undiscovered Sicily...colorful traditions, sun-drenched islands and spectacular volcanic craters. Little by little, Sicily is being discovered, but it has still preserved the traditions that make it such an exotic destination. The crossroads of many cultures, Sicily has combined Greek, Phoenician and Spanish influences to create a unique language, architecture and cuisine. Sicily's rich cultural history is matched only by her incredible natural beauty. Orange, lemon and hazelnut orchards are punctuated by jagged cliffs, cut into the land by the mighty Mt. Etna. The people, too, are a highlight of our visit. They are open and eager to show off their land. Rest assured, the spectacular landscape and the warm smiles of the locals will remain with you long after you bid good-bye to the fabulous island of Sicilia.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
• The imposing view of Mt. Etna from our inn
• Cappuccino & cannoli in Taormina
• Biking through the lava fields
• Stunning Hyblaean Plateau of the southeastern tip
• Dramatic ride along the cliffs in Salina
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Day 1 Salina
Out to the exotic Aeolian Islands via hydrofoil. Seven volcanic islands make up the archipelago, and we spend the next few days exploring two of them by bike and by boat. The pace is slow, laid back...and infectious! As we bike to the cliffside village that inspired the filming of Il Postino, the landscape surrounding us is dotted with white-washed houses and awash in brilliant pink bougainvillea. Optional coastal ride to the ancient salt beds in Lingua before a sumputuous dinner at our inn overlooking the Mediterranean.
|
Day 2 Lipari
A private charter carries us to Lipari, the largest of the Aeolians. The island greets us with Baroque architecture, colorful fishing boats and a lively port lined with cafés. After our loop ride of the island, enjoy a freshly shaved almond granita or stretch out on the black beach at Acquacalda. Be sure to visit Lipari's archaeological museum which boasts an excellent collection of ancient Greek painted vases discovered in the waters nearby.
• Two nights at Capofaro, a luxurious resort overlooking the Mediterranean and surrounded by Malvasia vineyards.
|
Day 3 & 4 Taormina & Castelmola
Transfer to the stylish beach resort of Taormina, perched high above the Ionian Coast. We join Giuseppe for a walking tour of the Greek theatre, and have the afternoon free to browse the chic boutiques and sample homemade marzipan. Our next day's ride is a spectacular route to the hidden villages of the Agro Valley. Visit the charming village of Savoca or marvel at the 18th c. mummies preserved in the Cappucine Monastery.
• Two nights at Grand Hotel Timeo, a Bike Riders’ exclusive and superb 5 star property with elegant rooms, service and style.
|
Day 5, 6 & 7 Mt. Etna Valley and Southeastern Sicily
We head inland by fragrant orange groves, oleander blossoms, and the lava fields around the base of snow-capped Mt. Etna before transferring to the Hyblaean Plateau. This stunning southeastern tip of Sicily brings us to the 17th c. castle of Donnafugata and along a dazzling coastal route where we stop for a swim at our inn's private beach. We toast our week at a Michelin starred restaurant in old town Ragusa, featuring homemade cavatappi with sweet tomatoes, island grown capers and spaghettini with sea urchins, all washed down with golden Malvasia wine.
• Two nights at Eremo della Giubiliana, a historical residence and former 12th c. convent.
|
"...The 5 star Grand Hotel Timeo was indeed heart-stoppingly grand...our room was not only opulently appointed, but had a private terrace looking onto a magnificent garden."
Erica Marcus, Newsday
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dates: Apr 20-26, Sep 21-27, Oct 5-11, Oct 12-18, Apr 19-25, 2009
See Sicily Guest Chef Biking for additional departures.
Length: 7 days/6 nights
Level: 1 B/C
Daily Mileage: 15-35 miles on gently rolling to rolling terrain. Some climbs.
Cost: $4080
Single Supplement: $900
Meals: All breakfasts, all dinners but 2; picnic lunch
Hotels: 4 & 5 star villa hotels.
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
