SMALL GROUP TOUR
Prepare to be unwrapped by Sicily’s superb landscapes, intoxicating diversity and ancient wonders. Centuries-old monasteries and Norman churches. Ancient Greek temples and bustling local markets. Sheer gorges and golden beaches. This dazzling Mediterranean island will tantalise your every desire and capture your heart with its fascinating culture.
An intoxicatingly vibrant capital, Palermo is where we’ll meet for the start of our incredible Sicilian journey. Our included dinner tonight is an opportunity to get to know one another better and sample some of Sicily’s sumptuous cuisine. Here’s to the fantastic trip ahead!
Accommodation: Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa (or similar) – Meals: Dinner
This morning we’ll take to the streets to dive into Palermo’s fascinating anti-Mafia movement with a local guide – visiting the house of anti-Mafia magistrate Paolo Borsellino, as we go. Then: it’s onwards to Monreale. Perched atop the Monte Caputo, overlooking the fertile valley of La Conca d’Oro – Monreale is renowned for its awe-inspiring Cathedral. Here, we’ll spend some time admiring the Norman-Byzantine architecture and stunning mosaics, before moving on to our idyllic accommodation in Selinunte.
Accommodation: Agriturismo Case di Latomie (or similar) – Meals: Breakfast
This morning, we’re in for a culinary treat: prepare to sample a local farm’s tasty olives, award-winning oil and fresh breads. Then: en route to Favara, we’ll stop by Mazara del Vallo to indulge in a delicious antipasti lunch that explores the Arabic influence on Sicilian cuisine. Appetites sufficiently quenched, we’ll continue to the historic fishing port of Sciacca. Dating back to the ancient Greek period, Sciacca has been known for its natural thermal springs and ceramics. Here, we’ll have the opportunity to visit a local ceramic workshop and enjoy some free time to explore – before moving on to our hotel in Favara.
Accommodation: The Alba Palace Hotel (or similar) – Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
After breakfast we’ll move on to Agrigento to visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Valley of Temples. As one of the most impressive collections of ancient Greek monuments in the world – a local guide will reveal the history of this enchanting archaeological site. Then: the ancient history lesson continues with a visit to Piazza Armerina’s Villa Romana del Casale – which contains one of the largest collections of Roman mosaics in the world. We’ll end our day in the magnificent hilltop town of Ragusa, where our idyllic accommodation in the historic town centre of Ibla, awaits.
Accommodation: De Stefano Palace Luxury Hotel (or similar) – Meals: Breakfast
We’ll start our day in indulgent style: with a chocolate tasting session in Modica. And then? The gastronomic theme continues as we venture into the countryside for a fascinating lesson in cheese-making. We’ll gain a unique insight into the rustic lifestyle of Sicilian shepherds from a local breeder – and learn the secrets behind creating the area’s famed provola ragusana cheese. After a delicious tasting session and included lunch, we’ll return to Ragusa – where the rest of the day is free to wander the sloping alleyways and historic Ragusa Ibla at our leisure.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
On today’s agenda: a visit to the city of Noto, where we’ll learn more about almond cultivation with a local expert. After indulging in an almond themed lunch, we’ll press on to lovely Syracuse. Here, a local guide will take us around the ancient archaeological park – home to the impressive Teatro Greco. This evening, we’ll enjoy some free time relaxing at our hotel or exploring the nearby Ortigia area – Syracuse’s ancient town centre.
Accommodation: Hotel Livingston Siracusa (or similar) – Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Coastal Syracuse – which rivalled Athens as the most important city of ancient Greece – is yours for the taking today. We recommend arranging a boat trip to visit the enchanting hidden caves here. Or spending your free time wandering the array of ancient temples before losing yourself in the city’s winding streets – opening onto magnificent baroque piazzas, enticing boutique storefronts and beautiful sea views. How you spend your day is up to you – but a visit to the stunning Piazza Duomo is a must!
Meals: Breakfast
Today we head towards Mt Etna, a slumbering giant that towers over the rugged surrounding landscape. We’ll take in the views from Rifugio Sapienza and have an opportunity to ride the cable car for a closer look at its smouldering craters. Then: we’ll move on to a local winery for an indulgent lunch and wine pairing experience. Later, our journey continues to the scenic hilltop village of Castiglione di Sicilia where we’ll spend the next two nights.
Accommodation: Il Picciolo Etna Golf Resort & Spa (or similar) – Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Today will be spent exploring the spectacular mountainside town of Taormina. Here, we will have plenty of time to indulge in some Sicilian dolce vita – but first: a guided visit to the dramatically situated ancient Greek theatre is in order. After a day spent exploring, tonight’s farewell dinner will be well-deserved.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Today, our tour will end in Catania – but not before a walking tour of the ancient port city. With an included visit to the city’s famous fish market, where you’ll have the opportunity to soak up the enthralling atmosphere. We’ll even pass by Catania’s oldest cannolo shop, where we’ll have the chance to fill our own cannoli with ricotta cheese. What a way to round off the trip!
Meals: Breakfast
| Starts | Ends | Price | Status | Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01/01/2023 | 31/12/2023 | On Request | On Request | Book Now |
Single supplement (if required)
Optional excursions/sightseeing
City Tax: some City Councils may introduce a tourist tax that has to be paid directly at the hotel
Meals and beverages other than those specified
Tips/Gratuities
Everything which is not clearly specified under inclusions
* Please note, price is subject to fluctuation and availability is subject to change until booked and confirmed *