La Bella Sicilia Ovest (Western Sicily)

An Archaeological Treasure Chest

Highlights

The dazzling mosaics and Benedictine cloisters of the Monreale cathedral
Visits to Sciacca, Sicily’s most ancient spa town; the enchanting island of Favignana; and an ancient fishing village
Daily stops at archaeological sites, including Segesta—one of the best-preserved Greek colonies in Magna Grecia
Magnificent views of Valle dei Templi in Agrigento

Venture off the beaten path to Western Sicily, a part of the island that is too often overlooked. Gain a better understanding of this Mediterranean hub of ancient history and true melting pot, as you pedal along now-sleepy shores … wander some of antiquity’s finest ruins … and savor succulent Sicilian wine and cuisine!

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 – Monreale
After we meet in Palermo, we'll take a warm-up spin through vineyards and orange groves. Dinner at our favorite trattoria will whet your appetite for the unique Sicilian cuisine.

Day 2 – Castellamare del Golfo:
Begin your day with a visit to the richly decorated Duomo di Monreale. Following a guided tour of Monreale we'll pedal to Castellemare del Golfo, a charming town that overlooks the gulf of Palermo.

Day 3-4 – Trapani
Today, we stop in Segesta, one of the best-preserved colonies of Magna Graecia, then continue on to Erice, a fortress town first settled by the Phoenicians. Enjoy the magnificent views on our last stretch of the day to Trapani, where we will stay the night. On Day 4 take a ferry ride to meet the local fisherman of the Egadi Islands. These islands are known for their spectacular and untouched beauty.

Day 5 – Mazara
Today we'll enjoy a long ride along an ancient trade route, the Via del Sale, or "Salt Way". Along the route we'll view salt fields, arranged like a colorful chessboard. Time permitting, we'll take a boat to Mozia, an island settled by the Phoenicians in 7 B.C. A taste of the famous sweet Marsala wine will have to wait until after dinner!

Day 6 – Sciacca
A morning trip will reveal the ancient Greek site of Selinunte at its most magical time, early light. This colony, who separated their sacred space from urban dwellings on the peaks of two ridges, was a rival to Segesta in antiquity. In the afternoon, we'll ride through citrus and olive groves to the fishing port of Sciacca. You can enjoy the history of this city by touring its sites, or by indulging in its famed spas.

Day 7 – Agrigento
Today we ride through a landscape of wild growth and geometrically designed orchards to Agrigento, where some of the most important wine makers of the region are located. Follow our guided tour of its ancient temples and archaeological museum to learn of this city's fascinating past. You'll love the magnificent view from our hotel this evening... make sure to sit back and enjoy the sunset!

Day 8 – Arrivederci!
After our goodbye breakfast, we'll take you to the Agrigento train station to make your connections. You may want to take an extra few days to explore this culturally rich and diverse island on your own!

Map

Picture Slideshow

La Bella Sicilia Ovest

Upcoming Dates

~~May 23, 2008~~ (Sold Out)
Sep 4, 2008
Oct 2, 2008
Oct 17, 2008

Accommodations

Premier

Ability

Intermediate

Terrain

Rolling with flat stretches

Distance

Total mileage: 280
Daily average: 40

Arriving

Palermo

Departing

Agrigento

Price

$3,695 - All 2007 dates
$3,895 - 5/23, 6/20
$3,995 - 9/04, 10/02, 10/17

Single Supplement

$500 - 2007
$650 - 2008

Bike Rental

Included!