La Bella Sicilia Est
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Photo Gallery: La Bella Sicilia Est
La Bella Sicilia Est
Ancient Sicily and the Dreamy Aeolian Islands
Highlights
- Ascent up Mt. Etna, Italy's only active volcano
- Visits to Greek ruins and a vast archaeological park
- Local flair: an expert Sicilian guide and a delicious Sicilian feast
- Three days on exotic volcanic islands
- Boat ride to desolate turquoise coves
Description
Challenging rides and hiking reveal the historic intrigues and proud passions of bewitching Eastern Sicily. We'll view perfectly preserved Greek temples … taste flamboyant specialties … experience local traditions … and visit the heavenly Aeolian Islands. Come experience one of our most popular tours and a true Mediterranean classic.
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Price
Apr: $4,495
May: $4,595
Jun - Nov: $4,695 -
Single Supplement
$800
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Ability Level
Intermediate
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Terrain
Rolling
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Distance
243 Miles 29 Average
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Departing
Catania
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Arriving
Caltagirone
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Bike Rental
Included!
- View our Suggested Reading
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Dates
- April 16, 2012
- May 9, 2012
- June 16, 2012
- September 1, 2012
- September 21, 2012
- October 11, 2012
- October 25, 2012
Day 1: Caltagirone
We start our ride in the beautiful old town of Caltagirone. Settled by the Greeks, Caltagirone is known for its azulejos (Spanish style glazed tiles). Explore the mansions and spacious squares of this charming town, and climb La Scala, the magnificent stairway as you become accustomed to the Sicilian way of life.
Day 2–3: Ragusa
Roll through the remote sheep-herding district of Altopiano Ibleo, to reach the modern province of Ragusa. An afternoon bath by the pool of our historic hotel will relax your muscles after the first full day on the bike.
Ride to the beautiful Villa Donnafugata, the rural summer vacation estate of the Arezzo family, and explore the valley of the Irmino River canyon before returning to Ragusa for a walking tour.
Day 4: Siracusa
Discover Siracusa, one of the most important Greek colonies in the area, and a cultural and political center for thousands of years. Visit an archaeological sites and dine at a typical Sicilian restaurant.
Day 5: San Giovanni la Punta
Bike in one of Sicily's most fascinating archeological reserves and nature sites before arriving at the slopes of Mt. Etna to prep for our next day hike.
Day 6: Mt. Etna & Taormina
Take an early van ascent then hike to absorb the magnificent views of Mt. Etna. On a clear day you can see all of Sicily. In the afternoon, head to Taormina and enjoy a free evening to explore the city.
Day 7–8: Lipari
We start the day with an early ferry to Lipari and continue on to Salina. Relax on a private boat ride through calm Mediterranean waters. Explore Salina's beauty and ancient history by bike. We'll travel to Panarea and see the small satellite islands which are all part of the same volcanic system. On Day 8, ride through Lipari to view its deep caverns, steep cliffs, and magnificent beaches. Spend the afternoon strolling around the island, and visit the archaeological museum and local shops.
Day 9: Arrivederci!
We leave Lipari in the morning, and escort you back to the Catania airport. Stay on in Sicily or transfer to Palermo to join our Bella Sicilia Ovest tour. Combine with La Bella Sicilia Ovest by adding a 3-day excursion to Cefalu- one of Siciliy's hidden jewels! Call for details.
Guides for this trip
Related Testimonials
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Lorraine N., Leechburg, PA had this to say about La Bella Sicilia Est:
The tour was better than I could have ever imagined. It felt like I was stepping into movie scenes. -
Mary H., Oak Bluffs, MA had this to say about La Bella Sicilia Est:
Wonderful people and wonderful rides. We are amazed we haven't heard any English in a week! We'll definitely be back. -
Sandra W., Santa Fe, NM had this to say about La Bella Sicilia Est:
Biking in Sicily and enjoying the islands was a great vacation.
