Cycling in Sicily

Day 1

Start Palazzolo Acreide, a charming maze of narrow streets and Baroque churches built following an earthquake in 1693 on the site of the Greek colony Akrai, which itself was founded in 664 BC. The town is situated in the heart of the Iblean Mountains, overlooking the upper valleys of the Anapo and Tellaro rivers, which helped the Corinthians control a broad swathe of Sicily.

Day 2

We start our exploration with a ride through the beautiful lower valleys of the Iblean Mountains, passing olive plantations and dry-stone walls that characterise this area. We then climb into the highlands to the delightful town of Ragusa Ibla, built over three hills separated by a deep valley, and home to beautiful Baroque churches and buildings. After visiting Ragusa, we cycle for another 14km to the town of Modica, another great example of the Sicilian Baroque style, nestled at the bottom of a deep gorge.Overnight in Modica.

Day 3

Before leaving Modica, we have the opportunity to taste its famous chocolate with chilli, which is still prepared using the original Aztec recipe brought over by the Spaniards in the 1500's. We leave Modica behind and ride south through the quiet pictureaque Iblean countryside until we reach the lovely beach of Donnalucata,where we have the chance to swim in the crystal clear sea (weather and season permitting). Next, we move on to a masterpiece of Sicilian Baroque architecture, Scicli, where the popular Inspector Montalbano TV series has been filmed. After enjoying some free time to discover the town's historic centre, we cycle back to Modica.

Day 4

Today's ride takes first to the town of Ispica, where we stop to admire the Baroque church dominating the beautiful piazza. Next, we pedal through the wetlands of Patano Longarini and Patano Cuba, a favourite spot among migratory birds that are attracted to the unique ecosystem of this area on their journey between Africa and Europe. Following the coastline, we reach Sicilys southernmost point: Isola delle Correnti, where the waters of the Ionian and the Mediterranean seas merge. We spend the night in the old fishing village of Portopalo di Capo Passero.

Day 5

A first short coastal ride brings us to Marzamemi,one of Sicily's prettiest fishing villagesoffering postcard views, numerous cafs and restaurants. We continue to Vendicari Nature Reserve. This narrow stretch of marshy coastline provides a rare and now completely protected habitat for migratory species and for the local flora and fauna. There are some beautiful sandy beaches, perfect for a swim in the clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea. As we leave the reserve behind, we head north to the elegant town of Noto, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Noto is a planned town in the unique Sicilian Baroque style, all built in a beautiful honey-coloured stone. A must-try in Noto is the delicious almond granita (similar to a sorbet) with brioche, typical of the area.Overnight in Noto.

Day 6

We start our day with a challenging but rewarding 5km climb to SanCorrado and the ruins of Noto Antica, the original settlement of Noto that was completely destroyed by the earthquake of 1693. We continue up reaching the viewpoint of Cavagrande del Cassibile (505m.), one of the deepest canyons found in Europe. The scenery here is spectacular and offers sweeping views of the valley far below. In the afternoon we enjoy a beautiful descent with hairpin bends towards the coast and then back to Noto.

Day 7

Today's gentle ride follows the coast all the way to Syracuse, passing beautiful beaches where, weather permitting, we will stop for a refreshing dip in the sea. The afternoon will be spent inOrtigia, the island where Syracuse was founded. After a short orientation tour, there is free time to explore at our own pace, head to the beach, do some shopping or visit the famous archaeological park. Overnight in Syracuse.

Day 8

The trip ends in Syracuse in the morning of day 8.