Join us on on the beautiful island of Sicily and discover the beautiful cycling, landscapes, history & architecture. Our journey begins in the incredible gold town of Noto, a UNESCO heritage site full of Baroque architecture. After a day trip to the coastal town of Marzamemi ride inland to Buccheri, one of Italy’s most beautiful villages. For our grand finale we transfer east to climb the slopes of the iconic Mount Etna and enjoy the riding in the north of the island.
This is a tour for people who enjoy great riding, fabulous food and local hospitalty. Stay in historic buildings, see archeological wonders from the bronze age, Romans & Greeks and indulge the delicious local cuisine of Sicily.
Rated 2 out of 4 our Intermediate tours are designed for sporty people who are looking to enjoy some more challenging rides. E-bikes are available on all of our tours.
Be ready to meet at 11:00 am at Catania Central Station for a transfer to Noto. After a light bite to eat we’ll get set up and ready to ride!
Ride south from Noto to explore the coast and head to picturesque town of Marzamemi for lunch. On our return to Noto we’ll make a beeline for Café Sicilia to celebrate our arrival with traditional Sicilian pastries.
Today ride through the Vall de Noto to the historic town of Buccheri, a member of ‘Italy’s most beautiful villages’ association and located in the Hyblaean Mountains. Climb out of Noto and enjoy views unflold, ride along the top & descend past the Necropoli di Castelluccio, an ancient archeological site from the bronze age. Located on the slopes of Mount Lauro Buccheri has a rich and ancient past, with archaeological evidence of Sicilians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs and Normans. Destroyed during the earthquake of 1693, Buccheri was rebuilt on the same site. Our hosts tonight are Irene & Alessandro at the Masseria Zafferaneto farm stay, a farm which has cultivated Saffron for more than 20 years. Immerse in rural Sicily and enjoy farm to table dining.
After breakfast we transfer north back towards Catania and the foothills of Mount Etna. For our grand finale we climb Mount Etna to the Rifugio Sapienza. Etna is a climb used by the Giro d’Italia. It’s the largest of 3 active volcano’s in Italy – erruptions in 2021 caused the volcano to grown 30 m in height! The fertile volcanic soils produced from the nearly constant eruptions have led to extensive agriculture, with vineyards and orchards spread across the lower slopes of the mountain and the broad Plain of Catania to the south. In June 2013, it was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
For our grand final enjoy a stunning ride in the hills above the mediterranean coast. Enjoy a final evening together at our wine hotel and share memories of an amazing week together in Sicily!
Sadly, it’s time to say goodbye! There is a group transfer to Catania Central Station at 10:00 am.
FULL SUPPORT
Enjoy small group sizes and professional, personal support all week from your guides & support vehicle.
We work with an industry leading guide to guest ratio – expect up to 4 guests per guide on the trip with guides leading the way on the road and a support vehicle close by at all times. Note that for groups of 4 riders or less this tour is run as a guided trip without the support vehicle.
The ride support vehicle is stocked with natural ride nutrition, electrolytes and water, as well as a full set of tools to resolve any mechanicals. On selected days the support crew will serve a delicious picnic lunch in a scenic location en route. Enjoy local foods chosen to keep you feeling energized and healthy.
Eat Sleep Cycle guides are experienced riders from all walks of life united by a love of cycling who’ll help to keep the group safe, motivated and savouring the trip of a lifetime.
All guests will receive access to our digital Road Book and routes, giving everyone the flexibility to ride at their own pace.
Hotels shown are examples and are subject to change
Start the journey in style at Gagliardi, situated in the middle of the baroque centre of the city. It is a harbour of creativity and culture, designed to see the valley of Noto in a new and original way. It is a timeless place where one enjoys staying no matter if for one day or a whole season.
Be sure to relax on the spectacular roof terrace at sunset and see a stuning golden hour.
The Masseria Lo Zafferaneto stands in a 19th century structure which has been remodelled into a stunning hotel. The hotel is immersed in nature and surrounded by breathtaking views. It’s an enchanted place in which to enjoy the simplicity of Sicily of the past.
Edonè is located in the heart of the Sicilian countryside, a short distance from the Alcantara gorges, Taormina and Mount Etna. Enjoy a warm welcome to this wonderful retreat and perfect base for amazing rides!
Bike hire is not included in the tour. Add bike rental to the trip from €60 per day.Bikes shown here are examples and are subject to availabilty at the time of booking. We'll let you know the available options in your size when you book with us.
The best all-rounder for long-distance comfort, the Basso Astra as a Campagnolo 12spd Wireless Groupset (48-32 || 10-29) and a Microtech RE38 Wheelset
The ulitmate Italian climbing bike from Basso. Equipped with Campagnolo 12spd Wireless Groupset (48-32 || 10-29) and Campagnolo WTO Wheelset
Emanuela is Italian and after many years living in Barcelona relocated to Mallorca. She started triathlon 10 years ago and has made it her life! Alongside guiding Emanuela hosts guests from all over the world in her Airbnb.
During the past 10 years, Mario has lived in different countries, but now he’s back home in Conegliano to ride every steep hill in the area! Despite his focus on road cycling, he’s had some amazing moments with his beloved steel gravel bike! Mario has been a member of the ESC Team since 2019 and couldn’t be happier! He looks forward to seeing you on the road soon!
Our cycling holidays in Italy offer a unique way to explore the country’s varied landscapes and rich heritage. From steep climbs of the Dolomites and Alps to cruising through Tuscany and the coastlines of Sardinia, there’s something for every rider at every level. Whether you're drawn to quiet country roads, challenging mountain passes, or lakeside routes, Italy combines great cycling with incredible food, local wine and a deep cycling culture. An Italian cycling holiday is the perfect blend of adventure and discovery, best enjoyed in spring or autumn. Discover our tours today.
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