BOUTIQUE CULINARY TOUR
Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean, Sicily offers travelers a treasure trove of experiences, from exploring its rich history and awe-inspiring architecture to witnessing breathtaking landscapes and savoring one of the most diverse and fascinating cuisines in the world.
This culinary tour invites you to embark on a thrilling 10-day culinary adventure, personally guided by Lisa Ferraro, an Italo-Australian with over 20 years of expertise in Sicilian travel and culinary research. Join us in our love for Sicily and gain a deeper insight into the island’s food and culture through a variety of unforgettable culinary experiences.
From the western to the eastern coast, including the Aeolian Islands, we will guide you through this captivating island as you discover its delectable cuisine, fresh seasonal ingredients, exceptional wines, and the warmth of its hospitality. Explore local markets, wineries, artisan producers, restaurants, and pastry shops. Enjoy unique accommodations, discover hidden gems, participate in hands-on cooking classes with local Sicilian chefs, and uncover some of the island’s best-kept secrets.
Sicily’s culinary diversity has been shaped by over 3,000 years of history. Your culinary journey begins with a visit to a west coast winery, set within a 15th-century farmhouse, where you’ll sample Sicily’s zesty wines and savor 9th-century Moorish-influenced cuisine, including the region’s famous Fish Cuscus in a picturesque courtyard. Explore the shimmering saltpans of Mozia, dating back to Phoenician times, and learn about the ancient commodity while enjoying breathtaking views of the lagoon and ancient windmills.
Spend a morning in the rural heartland, learning to make and taste traditional cheeses alongside shepherds. This age-old practice, rooted in the Greek era, continues as the Sicilian terrain remains perfect for rearing sheep and goats. In Palermo, visit vibrant outdoor street markets to purchase seasonal produce and prepare lunch in a local kitchen. Experience an exclusive tour and aperitivo at a historic aristocratic palazzo, hosted by a Duchess, where sweeping views of the bay await.
Marvel at the glittering mosaics of the Cattedrale di Monreale, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the finest example of Sicily’s Arab-Norman architecture. Journey through rolling hills to an agricultural estate in central Sicily, where you’ll take part in an intimate cooking class using locally sourced ingredients. In Agrigento, explore the majestic Valley of the Temples, where 6th-century Doric temples stand amid ancient olive groves, a gift from the ancient Greeks.
In the charming seaside village of Cefalu, indulge in some of the world’s tastiest gelato and discover the original ice cream sandwich. Embark on a boat tour with local fishermen, exploring the Aeolian Islands, hopping between the archipelago, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and savoring fresh fish on board. On the paradise island of Salina, relax with a glass of local Malvasia in a sun-drenched square by day, and enjoy an aperitivo at night as Stromboli erupts against a stunning pink Aeolian sunset.
Take a sweet brioche and dip it into icy granita before strolling down Taormina’s main street, soaking in the glitz and glamour of this hilltop village. Venture up to the terraced vineyards of Mount Etna to taste volcanic, mineral-rich wines paired with a local menu. At Catania’s La Pescheria fish market, witness the day’s freshest catch from local fishermen and enjoy a seafood lunch. Roll up your sleeves for a hands-on cooking class at an ancient water mill in the Val di Noto, and lose yourself in the baroque beauty of Siracusa, where you can stock up on top-tier, DOP-certified produce at artisan delicatessens in the lively street market.