Overview
With a 3,000-year-old mix of Mediterranean cultures revealed in epic Roman temples and cathedrals with Norman-Arab mosaics, Sicily is an inspiring island. Even the cuisine combines savory Greek, Spanish, and Arab influences! We hike cliff trails above the sea, into a wild canyon filled with Neolithic tombs, on a secret path to a medieval citadel, and on the slopes of fiery Mt. Etna, the highest volcano in Europe. Incredible World Heritage Sites are on this insider’s journey, and Sicily’s glorious food (think catch-of-the-day fish and indulgent desserts!) is a delight every day, as are our expert Trip Leaders who love to share their captivating island home.
This trip was terrific, a great mix of outdoors and archaeology. The hotels were charming, the food delicious, and the sites amazing. Hiking through Sicily (and Mt. Etna!) was great!
— Marlaine L., Princeton, NJ
Itinerary at a Glance
Days 1-4
Palermo / Segesta / Erice / Coastal Hike / Monreale / Cefalú
A rocky path brings us up to the impressive 5th century Elymian temple at Segesta, and we’ll circle the limestone peak of Monte Cofano on spectacular trails above the sea, with overnights in the hill town of Erice. After a hike through vineyards to a family farm for lunch, we’ll visit Monreale’s 12th century cathedral to see its golden Byzantine mosaics. Seaside Cefalú is our base for a hike in the Madonie Mountains, where Sicily’s deeply rustic culture thrives.
Days 5-6
Villa Romana del Casale
At Villa Romana, once a private Roman estate, we’ll view intact mosaics that depict Roman life in the 3rd century AD. At our pastoral agriturismo, we can hike in the hills, relax by the pool, or visit an archaeological site.
Days 7-8
Pantàlica Gorge / Siracusa
We hike among Bronze Age tombs in the wild Pantàlica Gorge, then head to ancient Siracusa to walk the narrow lanes of World Heritage-listed Ortigia Island, with its Baroque public squares and Doric temples. The striking Doric temple of Athena, now Siracusa’s cathedral, was built in the 5th century BC.
Days 9-11
Taormina / Mt. Etna
Writers from Goethe to Hemingway have been drawn to the gorgeous hill town of Taormina. We’ll visit the Roman theater, then head up to 9,500 feet on Mt. Etna for a hike below the crater. Depart on Day 11 via Catania.
Hiking in Sicily
Highlights
Highlights
Details
A mix of moderate walks and hikes, some steep trails, 2-4 hours a day, 1 optional day-hike at 9,500 feet (Mt. Etna), van support, team of up to 3 Trip Leaders
