EPIC SICILY
Apr 19 - May 1, 2026

Day 1 - Sunday, Apr 19th, 2026   Palermo-Castellammare, cycling 12mi/894’ 

Pickup at Palermo airport (PMO) or central hotel and coach transfer to Castellammare del Golfo. After bike fitting, enjoy a coastal shake-out ride past waterfront watchtowers along steep cliffs to the idyllic village of Scopello. Pre-tour briefing and traditional Sicilian welcome Dinner. (D) 

DAY 2- Apr 20   Castellammare-Segesta-Trapani, cycling 34mi/1970’ 

You’ll ride on rolling hills through rustic vineyards, olive groves and wind swept, golden wheat fields. Our cycling journey culminates at the majestic ancient (424BC) but well preserved Greek Doric ruins of the Temple of Segesta which sits atop the limestone hill of Monte Barbaro. After a guided tour and picnic lunch we’ll descend to the coast, arriving at the historic port city of Trapani, lined with narrow streets and vibrant markets. Visit the impressive Basilica-Sanctuary of Maria Santissima Annunziata or ride the cable car to visit the medieval hill town of Erice. (B,L) 

Day 3 - Apr 21  Trapani–Marsala, cycling 31mi/550’ 

Cycle the flat ‘salt way’ through the Trapani Salt Pans and Paceco Nature Reserve witnessing working salt pools, graceful windmills and a flamboyance of flamingos and egrets. Enjoy a boat ride to the ancient archaeological ruins of Mozia, a once-thriving Carthaginian island colony. Here, a guided tour reveals the history of this once powerful and prosperous city. Our scenic route takes us to the stately baroque town of Marsala, famed for the landing of Giuseppe Garibaldi and his Thousand as well as for its exquisite Marsala fortified wine. Enjoy a tasting of varietals Vino Florio, Vergine Riserva and Superiore Dolce at a renowned winery. (B) 

Day 4 - Apr 22   Marsala –Mazara del Vallo–Selinunte, cycling 43mi/740’
We cycle the stunning ‘African coast’ reminiscent of northern Africa and Tunisia's culture and sun-baked landscapes. Venturing inland through picturesque vineyards and olive groves, you’ll pedal to the port town of Mazara del Vallo, home to Italy’s largest fishing fleet. Explore the town's fascinating Casbah (Arab quarters), baroque churches and visit an archaeological museum dedicated to the extraordinary statue of the "Dancing Satyr, discovered by fisherman at a depth of 500m in the Strait of Sicily. We then ride to the vast, grand ruins of the Greek city of Selinunte, the largest archaeological park in Europe. Here you’ll enjoy a guided tour and buffet lunch. Selinunte was founded by settlers from Megara Hyblaea near Syracuse, which flourished until its eventual destruction by the Carthaginians. (B,L,D) 

Day 5 - Apr 23  Selinunte – Caltabelotta – Sciacca, cycling 45mi/3150’ 

We cycle through rolling hills passing olive groves and vineyards, then climb a spectacular road with panoramic views to the picturesque medieval hilltop town of Caltabellotta. Visit the ancient ruins of Castello di Caltabellotta and the Chiesa Madre, both perched high above with stunning views of the surrounding valleys. Our scenic descent to the Mediterranean shore brings us Sciacca, famed for its Baroque architecture, ceramics, and vibrant fishing harbor.  (B)

Day 6 - Apr 24  Shuttle to Piazza Armerina, no cycling

After breakfast we shuttle to the center of Sicily  for a guided tour of the extraordinary Unesco World Heritage listed Villa Romana del Casale. The large estate is noteworthy for the richness and quality of the well preserved colorful mosaics which are considered the finest in situ anywhere in the Roman world. (B,D)

Day 7 - Apr 25   Piazza Armerina – Caltagirone – Vizzini – Buccheri, cycling 46mi/3440’’ 

Cycling through stunning vista of rolling hills and vineyards, we reach the baroque town of Caltagirone, famed for its ceramic production. Visit the Scala di Santa Maria del Monte, a magnificent staircase with 142 steps, each adorned with colorful, hand-painted tiles depicting historical themes. We ride through olive groves and almond orchards to the charming town of  Vizzini before beginning our ascent into the rugged Iblean Mountains. Our route passes through fragrant forests and ancient stone limestone terraces offering beautiful views of Mount Etna in the distance.  At Buccheri, we’ll stay in a 19th century Masseria (fortified farmhouse) and visit the ruins of a Norman castle overlooking the town. (B,L,D)  

Day 8 - Apr 26  Buccheri – Palazzolo Acreide – Ragusa Ibla, cycling 31mi/2460’ 

Descending from the mountains, our route winds through olive groves, orchards and small villages. At the Baroque World Heritage Site of Palazzolo Acreide, we’ll visit the well preserved 3rd Century BC Greek Theater of Akrai, the stunning Church of St. Sebastian and enjoy a pastry tasting at the famed Corsino’s Bakery. You’ll continue pedaling along rolling hills to Ragusa Ibla, a true masterpiece of Baroque architecture and UNESCO World Heritage site. We’ll walk through labyrinthine streets and hidden courtyards to visit the Duomo di San Giorgio, considered the most magnificent Baroque cathedral in Sicily. (B)

Day 9 - Apr 27 -Ragusa Ibla – Modica – Scicli – Ispica – Noto, cycling 46mi/3440’

You’ll descend through the stunning ravines of the Iblean Mountains, surrounded by terraced landscapes and ancient dry-stone walls reaching Modica known not only for its grand Baroque cathedrals but also as the best chocolate in Sicily. Enjoy a tasting  at the famed Antica Dolceria Bonajuto. We continue through a lush limestone valley to Scicli whose dramatic backdrop of steep hills and impressive buildings seems to be carved into the rock. From Scicli you’ll ride to Cava d’Ispica, a 13-kilometer-long canyon which is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Sicily, with ancient cave dwellings, rock-cut tombs, and early Christian catacombs. (B,L,D)

Day 10 - Apr 28 - Noto loop, cycling 31mi/2460 (or rest day and walking tour of Noto)

From the World Heritage baroque capital town of Noto, we’ll climb into the hills on quiet roads lined with olive and almond groves. This route offers panoramic viewpoints at the ancient site of Noto Antica which was destroyed in the 1693 earthquake. We’ll wander the haunting remains before venturing into the hills to visit the spectacularly deep Cavagrande del Cassibile canyon, carved by the Cassibile River over millennia. The scenic downhill ride return to Noto is exhilarating, with a series of switchbacks that snake their way down the hills, offering stunning views of the coastline. Noto’s cathedral is a jewel of Sicilian Baroque, standing proudly at the top of a grand staircase on Corso Vittorio Emanuele. Indulge your sweet tooth with what is considered to be the best gelato in the world.  (B,D)

Day 11 - Apr 29 - Noto -  Siracusa, cycling 31mi/126’

Our coastal ride along sandy beaches and crystal-clear Mediterranean waters brings us to Siracusa, the splendid ancient Greek town considered one of the world’s most beautiful cities. The historic island of Ortigia is rich in ancient Greek ruins and Baroque architecture. Must visits include the Piazza Duomo with it's stunning Cathedral of Siracusa, the Fountain of Arethusa, and the 13th-century Castello Maniace offering breathtaking sea views. On the mainland visit the Archaeological Park with Siracusa's famous Teatro Greco, the Roman Amphitheater and the limestone quarries containing the  ‘Ear of Dionysius cave’. (B)

Day 12 - Apr 30 - Mt. Etna excursion, cycling 31mi/4900’ (or rest day and walking tour of Siracusa)

Today, you have the option to explore Siracusa at your leisure or embarking on an exhilarating adventure: the conquest of Mt. Etna. We’ll shuttle from the hotel to Nicolosi, a town nestled on the slopes of this active volcano. From here, we begin our loop ride, starting with a challenging climb to Rifugio Sapienza—a route that has frequently featured in the Sicilian mountain stage of the Giro d’Italia. The ascent begins gently through lush forests but as we climb higher, the landscape transforms dramatically. The trees thin out, giving way to vast lava fields and remnants of past eruptions, creating a stark yet mesmerizing backdrop. As we approach Rifugio Sapienza, you’ll delight in the panoramic views from this iconic Mt. Etna spot. Afterward, enjoy an exhilarating downhill ride to Zafferana Etnea and Nicolosi before shuttling back to Siracusa for our farewell dinner. (B, D)

Day 13 - May 1, 2026  Departure

Group transfer to Catania airport (CTA). (B)

Joining the ride
“Request to participate" or make further inquiries by contacting the ride leader, Bruce Rayvid. Upon acceptance you will be asked to sign a waiver and pay the People Cycling registration fee, The deposit will be paid directly to Maremonti Tours (MT) after ride confirmation. 

Payments 

The total thirteen (13) day tour cost per person is  $3,998  based on two persons sharing a room, calculated at a current currency exchange rate of $1.07 USD equals 1 Euro (€3,750). As exchange rates fluctuate, there may be an adjustment in the amount of the final payment. MT requires a minimum of twelve participants for the ride. Singles are welcome at a surcharge of approx $1,065 per room (limited to 2 singles). If you do not have a riding partner, we will do our best to connect participants as roommates.  A deposit of $900 is required on booking with the balance due 90 days prior to tour.
Cancellations
Refunds of deposits and payments will depend upon whether a replacement rider signs up, and on costs that can be recovered. If the canceling participant is replaced, a refund will be made when the replacement has paid their fees. If the canceling participant can't be replaced there will be no refund. Refund schedule: over 120 days: admin fee of $150 PP, 60-120 days 20% cancellation fee, 30-60 days 50% cancellation fee, under 30 days: 100% cancellation fee. Refund calculations are based on the principle that a canceling participant will not increase the cost for others. All cancellations are subject to an administrative fee of $150, which MT will deduct from the deposit. If a participant that is sharing a room cancels and another roommate cannot be found, in addition to other costs that cannot be recouped, the canceling roommate may also be liable for the supplement for a private room of the roommate remaining on the tour. The People Cycling ride registration and membership fee is not refundable unless the entire tour is canceled. You are highly encouraged to purchase trip cancellation, medical and travel insurance. The itinerary and menus are subject to change depending on availability and size of group. 

Tour includes: 

• 12  nights accommodation in 3-4 * hotels 

• 7  dinners (including water and ½ bottle wine pp) 

• 4   lunches (3 picnics, 1 buffet all with water) 

• 12  breakfasts

• light snacks, fruit, energy bars, water and electrolyte powder in the van for the rides

• Entrance fee to museums, archaeological sites and tours per itinerary

• Marsala wine tasting at the Florio winery 

• Olive oil tasting 

• Guided visits of the archaeological Sites of Segesta, Mothia, Selinunte and Roman Villa del Casale

• Boat ride to Mozia 

• English speaking cycling guide

• group transfer from Palermo center/airport to Castellammare del Golfo

• group transfer from Sciacca to Piazza Armerina

• group transfer from Siracusa to Mt Etna and return

• group transfer from Siracusa to Catania airport

• Basic spare parts and inner tubes 

• Emergency vehicle support and luggage transfer 

• Luggage transfer from hotel to hotel

• MT bidon water bottle

• Bike box transfer (very limited)

• TCX or GPX files for each day’s route, Map of the area 

• Not included: flights, bike hire, medical/travel insurance, taxis, tips/gratuities, drinks not listed above, happy hours, anything not mentioned in the included list above, pre/post tour accommodations, transfers and activities (Day 0 hotel/taxi/activities in Palermo or Castellammare or Siracusa listed below**)

Weather
With an average range from 60-70°, Sicily weather in April is mild and perfect for cycling. Occasional rain in the mountains is always a possibility; participants should be prepared to ride regardless of weather. Anticipate eight hours of sunshine daily with moderate UV levels.
Bike Rentals

        Gravel bikes aluminum       € 300    alu frames, Shimano GRX 600 components, 

        Gravel bikes carbon            € 340    carbon frames, Shimano GRX 600 1 x12 or Campagnolo Ekar 1x13

Hybrid bikes               € 230    hybrid/sport bike with 27 gears 

        E-bikes (S,M, L, XL)       € 465     E-touring bikes with Bosch Motor and 500Wh battery 

       Cycling helmet         € 15      included with bike rental

       All rentals include a saddle bag repair kit with extra tubes and levers
Arrivals, pre and post tour options:
The tour starts with a morning transfer from Palermo to the coastal resort of Castellammare del Golfo. It is recommended that you arrive in Palermo a day or more in advance to allow time to explore the city or optionally taxi to Castellammare for a 3-6mi coastline hike in the Zingaro Nature Reserve, considered the most beautiful hike in all of Sicily (highly recommended but not included, see below).  Train and bus connections between Palermo Centrale (Central Railway Station) and the airport (Punta Raisi) are frequent

• Day 0 option 1: Palermo hotel and city tour  Apr 18, 2026 (not included)

• Day 0 option 2: taxi to Castellammare, 3-6m  hike at  Zingaro Nature Reserve  (not included)

• Day 13-14 options - Siracusa is a wonderful city to spend an extra day or two exploring, especially if you’ve climbed Mt Etna on Day 12. Also consider visiting the elegant resort town of Taormina. 

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