Current as of: November 24, 2019 - 17:21 Valid for departures: From January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2022

Cycling in Trip Notes

 Ways to Travel: Guided Group 8 Days Land only Trip Code:  Destinations: Min age: 16 MWY Moderate  Programmes: Cycling

Trip Overview

Sicily is not only the biggest island in the Mediterranean but also one of the most fascinating, thanks to the incredibly diverse heritage left here by past civilizations including the Phoenecians, Greeks, Romans, , and Spanish. On this exciting cycling tour we explore the south-eastern part of the island, pedalling through the Baroque gems of Ragusa, , and other lming locations of the famous TV series Inspector Montalbano up to Syracuse, the capital. Along the route we enjoy picturesque landscapes made of farmlands, deep gorges and dramatic coastal scenery which showcase the great natural diversity of the region. No trip to Sicily is complete without sampling some of the nest regional delights considered amongst the best of the whole Italian gastronomy.

At a Glance  7 nights standard and comfortable hotels, all en suite  8 days land only  6 days cycling with partial vehicle support (limited seats)  Group normally 6 to 16. Min age 16 yrs  90% tarmac and some short sections of gravel; quiet rural undulating roads  Local bike hire included  E-bike hire available on request Trip Highlights

 Ride the stunning UNESCO Noto Valley  Visit the charming Baroque towns of Modica and Noto  Point-to-point rides through picturesque countryside and quaint villages  Sample superb regional cuisine

Is This Trip for You?

This trip is classied Road. 6 days cycling with partial vehicle support (due to limited seats) and a cycling guide; 90% tarmac and some easy sections of gravel.

There are no transfers to or from hotels on this trip: all the rides are designed to be door-to-door. Most of the cycling is along at to hilly tarmac roads (mainly trafc-free), with a couple of days (Day 2 and 6) of more demanding ascents and undulating routes, so a reasonable level of tness is required. As we approach the main towns and cities such as Syracuse there are busier sections with trafc at peak hours. A support vehicle (with limited seats) is available throughout the trip. It will not be able to follow the group at all times but it will meet you at the end of cycle paths and at junctions to give route directions and allow access to any items you don’t wish to carry on the bike. E-bikes are available on request for a fee payable prior depature.

If you have any queries about the difculty of the trip please do not hesitate to call us.

Following a review of all our trips we have categorised this trip as generally not suitable for persons of reduced mobility. However if you are a regular traveller on such trips, please contact customer services to discuss the trip and your personal condition.

Group

There will be a cycling leader and an assistant leader driving the support vehicle.

Adult min age: 16 Min group size: 8 Max group size: 16

Itinerary Land Only

Start City: End City: Syracuse

Land Only Itinerary

Day 1 Start Palazzolo Acreide.

Start Palazzolo Acreide, a charming maze of narrow streets and Baroque churches built after the 1693’s earthquake on the site of the Greek , which was founded in 664 BC. The town is situated in the heart of the Iblean Mountains, overlooking the upper valleys of the and Tellaro rivers, which helped the Corinthians control a broad swathe of Sicily. Day 2 Ride south to the hilltop Baroque town of Ragusa Ibla; cycle scenic roads to Modica.

We start our exploration with a ride through the beautiful lower valleys of the Iblean Mountains, passing plantations and dry-stone walls that characterise this area. We then climb into the highlands to the delightful town of Ragusa Ibla, built over three hills separated by a deep valley, and home to beautiful Baroque churches and buildings. After visiting Ragusa, we cycle for another 14km to the town of Modica, another gem of the , nestled at the bottom of a deep gorge. Overnight in Modica.

Meals included: Breakfast

Distance covered: 54 km / 33 miles Altitude gain (m): 700

Day 3 Cycle to the lovely beach of and the quaint ancient town of , famous lm set of Inspector Montalbano; ride back to Modica. Before leaving Modica, we have the opportunity to taste its famous chocolate with chilly, which is still prepared using the original Aztec recipe brought over by the Spaniards in the 1500's. We leave Modica behind and ride south through the quiet pictureaque Iblean countryside until we reach the lovely beach of Donnalucata, where we have the chance to swim in the crystal clear sea (weather and season permitting). Next, we move on to a masterpiece of Sicilian Baroque architecture, Scicli, where the popular Inspector Montalbano TV series has been lmed. After enjoying some free time to discover the town's historic centre, we cycle back to Modica.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

Distance covered: 52 km / 32 miles Altitude gain (m): 700

Day 4 Ride through coastal wetlands to Isola delle Correnti, the southernmost point in Sicily.

Today's ride takes rst to the town of , where we stop to admire the Baroque church dominating the beautiful piazza. Next, we pedal through the wetlands of Patano Longarini and Patano Cuba, a favourite spot among migratory birds that are attracted to the unique ecosystem of this area on their journey between Africa and Europe. Following the coastline, we reach Sicily’s southernmost point: Isola delle Correnti, where the waters of the Ionian and the Mediterranean seas merge. We spend the night in the pleasant old shing village of Portopalo di Capo Passero.

Meals included: Breakfast

Distance covered: 54 km / 33 miles Altitude gain (m): 400 Day 5 Coastal ride to Marzamemi and Vendicari Nature Reserve; continue to the UNESCO-listed Baroque town of Noto.

A rst short coastal ride brings us to Marzamemi, one of Sicily's prettiest shing villages offering postcard views, numerous cafés and restaurants. We continue to Vendicari Nature Reserve. This narrow stretch of marshy coastline provides a rare and now completely protected habitat for migratory species and for the local ora and fauna. There are some beautiful sandy beaches, perfect for a swim in the clear waters of the . As we leave the reserve behind, we head north to the elegant town of Noto, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Noto is an absolute gem, a planned town in the unique Sicilian Baroque style, all built in a beautiful honey-coloured stone. A must try in Noto is the delicious almond granita (similar to a sorbet) with brioche, typical of the area! Overnight in Noto.

Meals included: Breakfast

Distance covered: 48 km / 29 miles Altitude gain (m): 500

Day 6 Circular ride to Cavagrande National Reserve and the deep Canyon. We start our day with a challenging but rewarding 5km climb to San Corrado and the ruins of Noto Antica, the original settlement of Noto completely destroyed by the earthquake of 1693. We continue up until reaching the viewpoint of Cavagrande del Cassibile (505 mt.), one of the deepest canyons found in Europe. The scenery here is spectacular and offers dramatic views of the valley far below. In the afternoon we enjoy a beautiful descent with hairpin bends towards the coast and then back to Noto.

Meals included: Breakfast

Distance covered: 46 km / 28 miles Altitude gain (m): 800

Day 7 Final coastal ride to Syracuse; free time to discover the historic town.

Today's gentle ride follows the coast all the way to Syracuse, passing beautiful beaches where, weather permitting, we will stop for a refreshing dip in the sea. The afternoon will be spent in Ortigia, the island where Syracuse was founded. After a short orientation tour, there is free time to explore at our own pace, head to the beach, do some shopping or visit the famous archaeological park. Overnight in Syracuse.

Meals included: Breakfast

Distance covered: 49 km / 30 miles Altitude gain (m): 250 Day 8 End Syracuse.

The trip ends in Syracuse in the morning of day 8.

Meals included: Breakfast

Accommodation Comfortable hotels

We use comfortable hotels, which have been carefully selected for their friendly atmosphere and character. All rooms have en suite facilities and most of them are conveniently located in proximity of the charming UNESCO historic centres we visit.

List of hotels normally used:

Palazzolo Acreide: Hotel Colle Acre

Modica: Ferrohotel

Portopalo: Hotel Vittorio

Noto: Grand Hotel Soa or Hotel or Hotel Flora

Siracusa: Piccolo Hotel Casa Mia or similar hotel nearby

Where a single supplement is available, paying for a single will only guarantee a room for single use. It does not necessarily mean a twin or double room will be provided for sole occupancy.

Please note that a member of the group may be allocated a single room by default if the make-up of the group means there isn’t anyone for them to share with. Paying the supplement in advance is the only way to guarantee a single room.

Single supplements cannot be refunded retrospectively.

Single supplement from $465.00 USD Food & Transport

Eating & Drinking

All breakfasts and 1 dinner is included.

Sicilian cuisine is a melting pot of all the different cultures that have occupied the island, from the Arabs to the Normans. The island itself is incredibly fertile, enjoying a perfect climate which is ideal for the cultivation of fresh produce such as , oranges, lemons, eggplants, tomatoes, pistachios, almonds, grapes, and more—not to mention all of the seafood, tuna and sword sh shed right off the coast. The result? A cuisine that’s fresh, varied, and absolutely delicious! Sicilian wines are also superb and known to be strong and syrupy, like and Moscato. On this trip there is the chance to sample some unique Sicilian products. Lunches normally consist of delicious pic-nics, freshly prepared by your assistant leader each day. Dinners will be taken at the hotels or local restaurants recommended by your guide.

Transportation Transfers to/from the airport are by private vehicle at designated times. Your luggage is transported from hotel to hotel for you. The vehicle will be on hand with assistance on the later stages of rides. The tour leader cycles with the group.

Weather & Seasonality

When to go Sicily has a good all year round climate, with plenty of sunshine and warm/hot temperatures. The summer departures ought to have daily hot sunshine and temperatures can reach 30-35°C. The earlier and later departures are likely to be cooler with a slightly higher chance of rain. In late summer there is the possibility of heavy thunderstorms, but these are usually short-lived.

Weather Information Sicily has a good all year round climate, with plenty of sunshine and warm/hot temperatures. The summer departures ought to have daily hot sunshine and temperatures can reach 30 to 35°C . The earlier and later departures will be cooler with a slightly higher chance of rain - please make sure you pack some warm clothing if you travel in low season. In late summer there is the possibility of heavy thunderstorms, but these are usually short-lived.

Weather Charts Joining Instructions

Traveling land only: 8 days starting in Palazzolo Acreide and ending in Syracuse Your trip normally starts at our accommodation in Palazzolo Acreide in the afternoon of Day 1 of the itinerary. Details of how to reach the start point are provided in the Final Joining Instructions - sent approximately two weeks before departure. Transfers Details

Airport transfers are included for those able to meet the group transfer timings. If you require airport transfers, you may (by prior arrangement only) be able to join the group transfer. Transfers are arranged at designated times, subject to change - please check the group timing details 2 weeks before departure. If you do not take this transfer, or miss it, you must make your own way to the joining point at your own expense.

In order to reach your start hotel in Palazzolo Acreide independently from Airport, please follow the directions below: First catch a bus from Catania Airport to Syracuse.The service runs frequently from the airport terminal - every hour in the morning and every two hours in the afternoon. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes and the ticket costs €6.20 one way. For more detailed information and timetables please refer to http://www.segesta.it/. Once in Syracuse, you catch another bus to Palazzolo Acreide. There are a few services running during the day and the journey will take approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes For prices and timetable please refer to http://www.aziendasicilianatrasporti.it/. Please ask the bus driver to drop you drop you at the closest stop to the hotel and on arrival, please inform the staff that you are part of the Breakaway group.

Alternatively, a private arrival transfer can be arranged through Breakaway prior to departure. Please contact our Customer Operations team for a quote.

Location start: Palazzolo Acreide Location end: Syracuse

What to Take Essential Equipment Gloves and shorts, spare inner tube (unless hiring a bike)Waterproof jacket, sun cream and lip salve, sunglasses/eye protection, warm jacket for evenings, small daysack, favourite energy snacks, mosquito repellent, cycling helmet (cumpulsory on this trip).

Optional Equipment

We recommend carrying a large bum-bag or small close-tting daysack. We also recommend bringing suncream and swimwear.

Equipment Hire Local Bike Details: Fuji Model Absolute 1.7 Discount for bringing your own bike: Inquire for discount. Practical Information Passport Italy

All nationalities require a full passport that must be valid beyond the intended length of stay. It is your responsibility to have the correct personal documents and to obtain your own visa, if one is necessary, in accordance with the regulations of the country you are to visit. The information offered below is to help you with that process. We are not responsible for the actions of local immigration and customs officials, whether at points of entry or otherwise, and any subsequent effects.

Visa Italy

No visa required for US passport holders. Please note in Italy it is compulsory to carry ID with you at all times.

For further travel advice please visit U.S. State Department at https://www.state.gov/travelers/ Vaccination Italy

There are no specific health risks.

Keep informed of current travel health news by visiting Centers for Disease Control C.D.C at https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel

Local Time

Italy's Timezone: Europe/ CET (GMT +01:00)

Electricity Italy's Electricity: European plug - 2 round pins.

Standard European 2-pin adapter required.

Money Italy's Currency

The national currency of Italy is the Euro (EUR), with an exchange rate at the time of publication of approximately 0.9 to the US$.

Exchange rates are correct at the time of publication.

ATM Availability

ATMs are available in all major towns. Major credit cards are accepted in most places, but cash is usually easier.

Extra Expenses & Spending Money

For lunches and dinners not included allow about €300 (for the week) depending on the standard of restaurant chosen.

LOCAL TAXES: many Italian cities have recently introduced a tourist tax for non-residents. The local administration is in charge of the tax, which will be collected by the accommodation provider at check-in or check-out. This fee varies depending on the hotel category, the season and number of days of stay. It is usually between 1 and 4 euros per person per night. For this trip, please allow approx. €10 to 15 for the week.

Tipping Our local staff are paid well and fairly for their work with Breakaway, however most of our clients wish to give a tip to their guides and in appreciation of their help and friendliness. This, of course, is in no way compulsory and depends on the service received. If you feel you would like to leave a tip, as a guide we would suggest a total of approximately €30 per person (€20 for the leader and€10 shared between the other staff where appropriate). Responsible Tourism Tourism can be a real help to local communities, providing income, positive cultural exchanges and a nancial incentive to protect their natural environment. Ours is a 'total approach' to responsible tourism, covering everything from the way we plan and operate our trips to the practices of Breakaway as a company.

As much as possible, we try to use accommodations that are family run or at least employs local staff and uses local produce. This ensures that our visit has a positive effect on employment levels and economy in the region. Cuisine is a huge part of Sicilian culture and so we include several stops to locally owned businesses to introduce traditionally crafted produce and customary specialties. Clients can taste the famous chocolate with chilli in the Modica region and the delicious almond granita with brioche in Noto.

As a cycling trip, it allows easier access to the local communities and hence, facilitates interaction with locals from visits to local cafes and restaurants as well as markets to purchase traditional gifts and craft and get a real impression of the country. Water is especially and whilst we must stay hydrated, it is also vital to not cause too much waste from single use plastic bottles. Hence, we provide large water containers so that clients can refill their reusable water bottles.

Important Information If you are resident of the United States, we recommend the Travelex Travel Select

The U.S. State Department has up-to-date advice on staying safe and healthy abroad. For more on security, local laws, plus passport and visa information, see https://www.state.gov/travelers/

Keep informed of current travel health news by visiting Centers for Disease Control C.D.C at https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/ travel How to Book

Ready to book? Please contact Breakaway Adventures on Tel: 1-800-567-6286; International Tel: +1-843-856-9771. https://www.breakaway-adventures.com