7 Days & 6 Nights

4.6

Cycle Sicily's South

Cycle the UNESCO protected ’Val di Noto’ of south eastern Sicily
Explore the Baroque cities of Noto, Syracuse and Modica
Relax waterside in the ancient Arabic fishing port of Marzamemi
Ride along the coast from the Mediterranean to the Ionian sea
Dine on the Sicilian specialty of arancini, stuffed rice balls

Discover the UNESCO listed Baroque towns and charming fishing villages of south east Sicily on this cycling tour of the ‘Val di Noto’. From the energetic capital of Catania, you will be transferred to the hilltop town of Palazzolo Acreide. Rolling southwards cycle through rural Sicily to the honey-coloured stacked houses and chocolate shops of Modica. Ride to the delightful piazza of Scicli and onto the Mediterranean waters of Pozzallo where you can dine on freshly caught fish. Pedal to the ancient Arabic fishing village of Marzamemi and spend the afternoon relaxing on sandy beaches. On reaching Noto, stroll along the elegant ‘Corso Vittorio Emanuele’ with a cone of gelato in hand. Finish by cycling to Syracuse, the ancient Greek city and birthplace of Archimedes, where waterside restaurants invite you to sample the catch of the day.

From £935.00

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Itinerary

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Day 1 Arrive in Catania and transfer to Palazzolo Acreide

Catania’s international airport has excellent airline connections to mainland Europe and beyond.

From Catania, a private transfer will take you to the south eastern UNESCO listed city of Palazzolo Acreide (approx 1-1.5hrs journey time). A charming town with a laid back atmosphere and wealth of Baroque architecture. Ease into Sicilian life, with a plate of freshly cooked pasta and a glass of local Moscato.

Overnight Palazzolo Acreide

Accommodation

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Hotel Feudo Bauly | 4 Star | Hotel

This historic building has been converted into a characterful hotel with a restaurant, bar and swimming pool. Charming, individually decorated bedrooms and suites, some of which are on 2 levels, have free Wi-Fi, antique wood furnishings, terracotta or tile floors, and modest en suite bathrooms. Most have air-conditioning as well as balconies with panoramic views. The hotel is in the countryside a short distance from Palazzolo Acreide.

Day 2 Cycle to Modica 36 miles / 58 km

Begin cycling through a rolling patchwork landscape of crops and fruit groves before the last few km’s of your ride ascends to the neatly stacked streets of Modica. Peppered with hidden architectural gems, explore Modica Alta on foot and discover the imposing 17th-century Duomo di San Giorgio. In the evening choose from one of the many family trattorias and sample delicious Sicilian pistachio pesto dishes.

Ascent/Descent: 561m/856m

The cycling route today includes a stop in the centre of Palazzolo Acreide. If you already explored here yesterday and don't wish to revisit it then there is a slightly shorter route available in the Macs app. Shorter cycle is: 54 kms/ 34 milies, Ascent/Descent: 528m/828m.

Overnight Modica

Accommodation

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Hotel Ferro | 4 Star | Hotel

This stylish and contemporary hotel overlooks the hills of Monserrato. The unique train-theme is inspired by the town's old, abandoned railway, offering its guests a unique experience. Within walking distance, you can visit San Pietro Cathedral and its Baroque bell tower, and the town's stunning San Giorgio Cathedral. At the nearby restaurants, you can immerse yourself in local and regional specialities.

Le Magnolie Boutique Hotel | 3 Star | Hotel

A boutique hotel located in the historical centre of Modica, within a small 18th century building. Castello dei Conti (Castle of Conti), San Pietro Cathedral and the Baroque Cathedral of Modica are located nearby. From the hotel’s terrace you'll have views of the city’s most important attractions, alongside the best wines of Sicily in the hotel’s wine cellar. Here you can also enjoy typical products of the Ragusa territory.

Day 3 Cycle to Pozzallo 27 miles / 42 km

An easy downhill heads out of Modica, but before leaving don’t forget to take some of the local chocolate with you (inspired by an ancient Aztec recipe, using rough cacao paste). Cycling through the Iblei Canyon arrive at the Scicli, perfect timing for coffee and gelato. Rolling onto the coast finish with a dip in the sea at the town of Pozzallo and dine on the catch of day.

Ascent/Descent: 207m/498m

Overnight Pozzallo

Accommodation

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Hotel Sikania | 3 Star | Hotel

Located in the heart of Pozzallo, this hotel is only a few minutes stroll from the nearby beach. Encapsulating a traditional Sicilian Villa, rooms are spacious, bright and very comfortable.

Hotel 1921 | Hotel

This welcoming hotel is located near Pietrenere Beach in Pozzallo which is an excellent setting. All rooms include air conditioning, a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV, a safety deposit box and a balcony with city view.

Day 4 Cycle to Marzamemi 34 miles / 55 km

A day of coastal riding will take you through the wetlands of Patano Longarini and Patano Cuba, rich in migratory birdlife. Continue east to Sicily’s most southerly point, Isola delle Correnti where the Ionian and Mediterranean Seas meet. Finish the day at the ancient fishing village of Marzamemi, with its charming picture postcard piazza. This evening, you stay in an agriturismo just outside of the village and is a perfect afternoon for relaxation by the pool.

Ascent/Descent: 93m/96m

Overnight Marzamemi

Accommodation

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Agriturismo Tenuta Arangio | Agriturismo

Belonging to the Arangio family since 1890, this converted farmhouse sits amongst olive and almond trees. In the courtyard, take a dip in the private pool or enjoy a afternoon nap in its secluded gardens.

Agriturismo La Vignazza | Hotel

Your Agriturismo this evening is a restored farmhouse, belonging to the Spicuglia family, which dates from 1899. The accommodation has a spacious lounge and a restaurant, which serves the famous Sicilian cuisine. You can enjoy the large garden and outdoor swimming pool during your stay.

Day 5 Cycle to Noto 21 miles / 34 km

Before hopping in the saddle today, enjoy a morning at the beach and watch the returning fisherman from their early morning trips. Cycle north along the Ionian Coast, via Oasi Vendicari, a sanctuary for kingfishers. Leaving the coast, turn inland to the town of Noto. Along with 7 other towns, Noto was destroyed in the devastating earthquake of 1693. After an exceptional collaboration of artists and architects of the time, the towns were rebuilt in the lavish Sicilian Baroque style and Noto’s elegant resurrection has made it one of the most beautiful towns of Italy. The stylish walkway ‘Corso Vittorio Emanuele’ is perfect for an evening amble.

Ascent/Descent: 278m/183m

Overnight Noto

Accommodation

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Hotel Flora | Hotel

Only a few minutes walk from the historical sights of Noto, Hotel Flora enjoys a central location in the centre of the old town which means you’re never too far from a delicious number of gelato shops and seafood restaurants.

Grand Hotel Sofia | Hotel

Art, culture and the sea – the Grand Hotel Sofia is located along a striking path, that will guide you through the art of Modica, Ragusa, Syracuse and Palazzolo Acreide, as well as the pristine nature of Vendicari, Portopalo, Marzamemi, Pantalica and Cava Grande del Cassibile.

Netum Hotel | Hotel

Only a few minutes walk from the historical sights of Noto, Netum Hotel enjoys a central location in the centre of the old town which means you’re never too far from a delicious number of gelato shops and seafood restaurants.

Day 6 Cycle to Syracuse 34 miles / 55 km

You have the choice of two rides today. Take a shorter, easier route along the coast to Syracuse or head inland, up to the vista point of Cavagrande de Cassible, this is definitely for those that enjoy a challenge! On arrival in Syracuse, you’ll be met with over 3000 years of history as ancient civilisations of Europe have all left their mark on this fascinating city. Later, dine on traditional dishes of Pasta a la Norma, arancini stuffed rice balls and a sweet cannoli for dessert.

Ascent/Descent: 431m/511m

Shorter cycle route available: 39kms Ascent/Descent: 9m/105m

Overnight Syracuse

Accommodation

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Gran Bretagna Boutique Hotel Ortigia | Hotel

Offering traditionally furnished accommodation, the Great Britain Boutique Hotel Ortigia is located in Ortigia in the historic center of Syracuse and 100 meters from the Grand Harbor, featuring a tree-lined promenade.

Grande Albergo Alfeo | Hotel

Recently renovated and refurbished luxury 4 star hotel near Ortygia in the centre of Syracuse. Located only 300 meters from the small island of Ortygia/Ortigia the hotel is great for allowing you to explore the fascinating historical city.

Hotel Gutkowski | Hotel

Set 35 m from the sea on a promenade, this hotel in a pair of 19th-century buildings is a 4-minute walk from the Temple of Apollo and 13 minutes from the famous fountain, Arethuse.

The airy rooms feature unique furnishings, mostly of wood, and have free Wi-Fi, flat-screens and minibars. Upgraded rooms add balconies and sea views. Room service is available.

Day 7 Onward travel from Syracuse

THIS TRIP'S CARBON SCORE

This trip has a carbon score of 12kg per person per night, meaning it’s one of our best trips! For comparison, a carbon count of 12kg is equivalent to 5 bunches of flowers (grown in the Netherlands). Here at Macs, we pride ourselves on being a responsible travel company and continue to adopt, develop and innovate ways to positively impact the environment. Find out more information on how we've carbon counted our trips.

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Other Information

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Is it for me?

Cycle through the rolling countryside and coastal roads of south-east Sicily. Each day explore Baroque towns and charming fishing villages, fuelling rides on fresh pasta and seafood dishes. Spend the nights in historic, comfortable, centrally located hotels, where you can dine in the buzz of lively piazzas or unwind at the beach with a local glass of Moscato wine. Perfect for occasional riders seeking to discover a region from the saddle over consecutive days.

Trip Type:

Slower Adventures | Where walking and cycling meet easy-going exploring, our Slower Adventures are the perfect combination. Most days are filled with picturesque journeys with some free time to dive into the destination and experience the people, local food and culture as you go.

Activity:

Leisure Cycling | Leisure Cycling

This trip is suitable for:

Solo Travellers

The minimum age for this tour is: 5 Years

Ideal if you have an interest in:

Foodie

Wine

Islands

Grade & Terrain

This cycling tour is graded easy to moderate. The grade is determined on the basis of the entire trip. Individual days may vary in terms of difficulty, i.e. some rides may be slightly more difficult or easier than the overall grade. The route follows a combination of quiet country roads, stretches of rolling terrain and busier roads when approaching and departing towns and cities. Please always be mindful of other road users at all times, especially when cycling on routes shared with traffic.

Experience & Fitness

This cycling tour is suitable for occasional riders seeking to discover a region from the saddle, and comfortable riding up to 60km and over consecutive days. Distances of the stages range between 35km and 58km, and the difference in daily total elevations varies between 77 metres and 560 metres. We provide shorter options for Days 2 and 6.

Accommodation & Meals Navigation What's Included

Included

Detailed information pack, route notes and access to our navigation App
24/7 Emergency telephone support from our office
5 nights in 3 and 4-star hotels, 1 night in an Agriturismo
6 Breakfasts
Transfer from Catania to Palazzolo Acreide on day 1
Baggage transfer

Excluded

Travel to Catania / from Syracuse
Bike hire (optional upgrade to e-bike hire)
Lunches, dinners, drinks & snacks
Personal equipment
Travel insurance (required)

Extras

Additional nights along the route
Bike hire
E-bike hire
Departure transfers

When to go Travel & Transfers Info & FAQ

General Information

All bike tours are unescorted. The distances listed are approximations of the recommended routes. Please be prepared by packing all necessary items, for example, cycle clothing and personal medications etc.

Equipment

21 speed touring bikes are available for hire. Rental bikes come equipped with a basic repair kit, pump and a helmet (though we recommend using your own). Male and female frames are available. If you’d like to hire a bike, please let us know your height and frame size you currently ride.

EBikes are also available for hire if you would like a power assisted ride. For more information on EBikes please click here.

Minimum age for ebike hire is 16yrs.

If you would prefer to bring your own bicycle please ensure it is thoroughly serviced and is an appropriate bike for this trip such as a Scott Sub, Trek 7200 or similar.

If you do intend to bring your own bike, please do let us know at the time book as extra transfer arrangements may be required for any large bike cases/boxes.

If you’d like to hire a bike, please let us know your height and frame size you currently ride, along with any other specific requests you may have. We’re always happy to answer any questions regarding hire bikes.

If you would to bring your own road bike please ensure it is thoroughly serviced and is an appropriate bike for this trip.

Travel Insurance

It is a requirement of booking this tour with Macs Bike that you have suitable Travel Insurance which covers you for the activity, emergency evacuation and hospital care.