Sicily, due to its strategic importance has been invaded and conquered over the centuries by Greeks, Phoenicians, Byzantines, Romans, Arabs, Normans and Spanish who have all left their mark on the territory, towns and cities of this wonderful island. Sicilian architecture is so varied, from classic Greek temples and theatres, to the Medieval combination of Byzantine, Arab and Norman designs and the 17th-18th Century Baroque style.
Our tour will give you the opportunity to explore Sicily's diverse landscapes, visiting important archaeological sites as well as experiencing the life and culture of the very proud, welcoming Sicilian people.
Travelling west along the island’s north coast you come to the bustling capital city of PALERMO, renowned for its amazing combination of Arabic, Norman and Baroque architecture. Highlights here include the Cathedral built in 1184 on the site of an ancient basilica.
A short distance from the city and also famous for its cathedral is MONREALE founded in 1172. It has a superbly decorated interior of incredible gold leaf mosaics depicting the Old Testament. You will then visit CEFALU located on the coast between Capo D’Orlando and Palermo with narrow medieval streets, a Norman cathedral and small picturesque fishing port.
Europe’s largest active volcano MOUNT ETNA dominates eastern Sicily and is a must to visit. The dramatic, and sometimes eerie, barren scenery of black lava contrasts with the fertile valleys below. A wine tasting of the ‘Etna wines’ is included.
The landscape of the NEBRODI MOUNTAINS is soft, lush, green and very picturesque. From the coast the vegetation changes from citrus fruit trees to olive groves and from hazelnut trees to pine forests. All around perched up high are scattered unspoilt villages where you will see local Sicilians going about their everyday life. During your day in this area you will get to sample the delicious products of the region and have a typical Nebrodian Brunch.
Travelling south inland through the SICANI MOUNTAINS, vast open plateaux and tranquil rural villages you will come to the charming ancient village of SANT’ANGELO MUXARO, ihabited since the Bronze Age and situated on a solitary hill in the middle of the PLATANI VALLEY. Here you will have a tour of the village giving you a real insight into the culture and traditions of true Sicilian life followed by a typical gastronomic lunch.
AGRIGENTO is the site of the magnificent remains of the VALLEY OF THE TEMPLES. The site with its captivating Greek Doric temples, is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world and has UNESCO World Heritage status. Your journey back to the north coast will take you through the breathtaking scenery of the MADONIE MOUNTAINS and along riverbeds into the very rich agricultural area of wheat farming and where there is the greatest concentration of ‘sweet eating’ grape vines.
On your free day you may like to take an optional excursion to Taormina with its impressive Greek amphitheatre and/or Lord Nelson's castle.
Our experienced English-speaking representative will meet you on arrival at Catania and accompany you throughout your tour
