Overview
Ride through the UNESCO Val di Noto and Montalbano’s filming locations
Sicily is not only the biggest island in the Mediterranean but also one of
the most fascinating, thanks to the incredibly diverse heritage left here by
past civilizationsincluding the Phoenecians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans
and Spanish. On this exciting cycling tour we explore the south-eastern part
of the island,pedalling through the Baroque gems of Ragusa, Modica, Noto
and other filming locations of the famous TV series Inspector Montalbano up
toSyracuse, the ancient Greek capital. Along the route we enjoy picturesque
landscapes made of farmlands, deep gorges and dramatic coastal scenery which
showcase the great natural diversity of the region. No trip to Sicily is
complete without sampling some of the finest regional delights considered
amongst the best of the whole Italian gastronomy.
Highlights
* Ride the stunning UNESCO Noto Valley
* Visit the charming Baroque towns of Modica and Noto
* Point-to-point rides through picturesque countryside and quaint villages
* Sample superb regional cuisine
Itinerary
Day 1
Fly to Catania; transfer to Palazzolo Acreide.
Fly to Catania; transfer to Palazzolo Acreide, a charming maze of narrow
streets and Baroque churches built after the 1693s earthquake on the site
of the Greek Akrai, which was founded in 664 BC. The town is situated in the
heart of Iblean Mountains, overlooking the upper valleys of Anapo and Tellaro
rivers, which helped the Corinthians control a broad swathe of Sicily. In the
afternoon there may be time to explore the beautiful heritage found here
including some stunning Baroque churches. If the group flight arrives late in
the evening we visit Palazzolo the following day in the morning.
Day 2
Ride south to the hilltop Baroque town of Ragusa Ibla; cycle scenic roads to
Modica.
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 gem of the Sicilian
Baroque, nestled at the bottom of a deep gorge. Overnight in Modica.
Day 3
Cycle to the lovely beach of Donnalucata and the quaint ancient town of
Scicli, famous film set of Inspector Montalbano; ride back to Modica.
Before leaving Modica, we have the opportunity to taste its famous chocolate
with chilly, 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
Ride through coastal wetlands to Isola delle Correnti, the southernmost
point in Sicily.
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 thepleasant
old fishing village of Portopalo di Capo Passero.
Day 5
Coastal ride to Marzamemi and Vendicari Nature Reserve; continue to the
UNESCO-listed Baroque town of Noto.
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 an absolute gem, 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
Circular ride to Cavagrande National Reserve and the deep Cassibile Canyon.
We start our day with a challenging but rewarding 5km climb to SanCorrado
and the ruins of Noto Antica, the original settlement of Noto completely
destroyed by the earthquake of 1693. We continue up until reaching the
viewpoint of Cavagrande del Cassibile (505 mt.), one of the deepest canyons
found in Europe. The scenery here is spectacular and offers dramatic 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
Final coastal ride to Syracuse; free time to discover the historic town.
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 Transfer to Catania; fly to London.
Transfer to Catania; fly to London.
**
|
