Day 1: Greek & Mythological Roots: In Siracusa we enter a proud history established by the Greeks in 734 BC, Siracusa's many attractions made it Italy's most powerful city and it was here that Archimedes won his famed battle over the Romans--with mirrors. Siracusa's innovation also gave us the world's first cookbook--a memorable evening meal is assured after a warm-up hike and bike within a nature reserve. This beautiful canyon gives evidence to the islands first inhabitants from the prehistoric bronze age--a lost city where over 5000 tombs and cave dwellings are seen.
Day 2-3: Antica Noto & Caltagirone: Queen of the Mountains: We explore the beauty and history of the Sicilian hills. Our rides move along a continual bella vista & offer us stops at the ancient cities of Ragusa and Ancient Noto's Roman ruins. We glimpse at life in the classical, timeless hill towns: terraced homes with wrought-iron balconies and mama's wash on the line displays the artistry of simple living. The day ends in Caltagirone, a fascinating ceramic center with Arabic roots.
Day 4: Imperial Residence & Mosaics: In the morning we tour Caltagirone, it's ceramics and evidence of why it's believed the island's original inhabitants of 2000 BC first resided here. Then stop at one of the island's most fascinating stops, Villa Casale. Considered the Roman Empire’s most well-preserved and complete country estate, you are sure to marvel at the incredible mosaic works inlaid on the floors and walls throughout. Then we embark on a dramatic scenic bicycling route along
Day 5-7: The Eye of the Cyclopes: Etna Explored: Rising early we climb Mt. Etna, Europe's largest volcano--also known as "The Eye of the Cyclopes". On our way to the crater's ridge if the volcanoes activity allows we stop at the "Torre del Filosofo" (the Philosopher's Tower), where many reflect on how Mt. Etna so graphically represents the cycle of life: taking it with those same eruptions that provide fertile soil for it's renewed growth. We enter the strange grottoes formed by the flowing lava and have the privilege of an expert guide who can answer questions about any volcano in the world. A special treat. A spectacular trail on the lower slopes of Mount Etna takes us through pine forest and by several refugios located along the lower lava-terraced slopes of the volcano. We enjoy the rest of the day in Sicily’s most beautiful town, Taormina. Here it is believed that Neptune shipwrecked a boat full of Greeks in the 8th century B.C. and only one sailor survived. He was so inspired by the beauty that he founded the city.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Inclusions & highlights:
* 6 nights accommodation with breakfast
* 5 full course dinners
* Multi-lingual guide(s)
* BIKE RENTAL
* Guided tour of Mt. Etna
* Canal boat tour of Siricusa's papayrus groves, city tour & optional visit of local winery
* Visit Ancient Roman Villa Casale, Antico Noto & Taormina's Greek/Roman ruins...
* All entrance fees within the itinerary.
* Daily van support while riding, route notes & maps
* Bike rental, bike equipment and accessories
* All tour transfers including meet and departure as specified & Mt Etna shuttle
Also see tour packages in:
Europe
Italy
Bicycle Touring
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