The Splendours of Sicily 2024
The Splendours of Sicily 2024
The Splendours of Sicily 2024
10 Days Starting in Palermo and ending in Catania
Visiting: Palermo, Selinunte, Monreale, Favara, Mazara del Vallo, Sciacca, Piazza Armerina, Agrigento, Ragusa, Modica, Syracuse, Noto, Mount Etna, Casa vacanze Etna cocus, Taormina, Catania
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BSSPC4
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
7 - 18
Age range:
18-90
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Private Available:
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Tour Overview
Prepare to be unwrapped by Sicily’s superb landscapes, intoxicating diversity and ancient wonders. Centuries-old monasteries and Norman churches. Ancient Greek temples and bustling local markets. Sheer gorges and golden beaches. This dazzling Mediterranean island will tantalise your every desire and capture your heart with its fascinating culture.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Palermo (Sicily)
Location: Palermo
Accommodation: Hotel Principe di Villafranca (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
An intoxicatingly vibrant capital, Palermo is where we’ll meet for the start of our incredible Sicilian journey. Our included dinner tonight is an opportunity to get to know one another better and sample some of Sicily’s sumptuous cuisine. Here’s to the fantastic trip ahead!
Day 2: Palermo – Monreale – Selinunte
Location: Palermo, Selinunte, Monreale
Accommodation: Agriturismo Case di Latomie (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning we’ll take to the streets to dive into Palermo’s fascinating anti-Mafia movement with a local guide – visiting the house of anti-Mafia magistrate Paolo Borsellino, as we go. Then: it’s onwards to Monreale. Perched atop the Monte Caputo, overlooking the fertile valley of La Conca d’Oro – Monreale is renowned for its awe-inspiring Cathedral. Here, we’ll spend some time admiring the Norman-Byzantine architecture and stunning mosaics, before moving on to our idyllic accommodation in Selinunte.
Day 3: Selinunte – Mazara Del Vallo And Sciacca – Favara
Location: Favara, Selinunte, Mazara del Vallo, Sciacca
Accommodation: Hotel, The Alba Palace (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning, we're in for a culinary treat: prepare to sample a local farm’s tasty olives, award-winning oil and fresh breads. Then: en route to Favara, we’ll stop by Mazara del Vallo to indulge in a delicious antipasti lunch that explores the Arabic influence on Sicilian cuisine. Appetites sufficiently quenched, we’ll continue to the historic fishing port of Sciacca. Dating back to the ancient Greek period, Sciacca has been known for its natural thermal springs and ceramics. Here, we’ll have the opportunity to visit a local ceramic workshop and enjoy some free time to explore – before moving on to our hotel in Favara.
Day 4: Favara – Agrigento And Piazza Armerina – Ragusa
Location: Favara, Piazza Armerina, Agrigento, Ragusa
Accommodation: Hotel, Antico Convento dei Cappuccini (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast we’ll move on to Agrigento to visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Valley of Temples. One of the most impressive collections of ancient Greek monuments in the world – a local guide will reveal the history of this enchanting archaeological site. Then: the ancient history lesson continues with a visit to Piazza Armerina’s Villa Romana del Casale, which contains one of the largest collections of Roman mosaics in the world. We’ll end our day in the magnificent hilltop town of Ragusa, where our idyllic accommodation in the historic town centre of Ibla awaits.
Day 5: Ragusa – Modica – Ragusa
Location: Ragusa, Ragusa, Modica
Accommodation: Hotel, Antico Convento dei Cappuccini (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We’ll start our day in indulgent style: with a chocolate tasting session in Modica. And then? The gastronomic theme continues as we venture into the countryside for a fascinating lesson in cheese-making. We’ll gain a unique insight into the rustic lifestyle of Sicilian shepherds from a local breeder – and learn the secrets behind creating the area’s famed provola ragusana cheese. After a delicious tasting session, we’ll return to Ragusa – where the rest of the day is free to wander the sloping alleyways and historic Ragusa Ibla at our leisure.
Day 6: Ragusa – Noto – Syracuse
Location: Syracuse, Noto, Ragusa
Accommodation: Domus Mariae Benessere (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
On today’s agenda: a visit to the city of Noto, where we’ll learn more about almond cultivation with a local expert. After indulging in an almond-themed lunch, we’ll press on to lovely Syracuse. Here, a local guide will take us around the ancient archaeological park – home to the impressive Teatro Greco. This evening, we’ll enjoy some free time relaxing at our hotel or exploring the nearby Ortigia area – Syracuse’s ancient town centre.
Day 7: Syracuse
Location: Syracuse
Accommodation: Domus Mariae Benessere (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Coastal Syracuse – which rivalled Athens as the most important city of ancient Greece – is yours for the taking today. We recommend arranging a boat trip to visit the enchanting hidden caves here. Or spending your free time wandering the array of ancient temples before losing yourself in the city’s winding streets, which open onto magnificent baroque piazzas, enticing boutique storefronts and beautiful sea views. How you spend your day is up to you – but a visit to the stunning Piazza Duomo is a must!
Day 8: Syracuse – Mt Etna – Etna Region
Location: Mount Etna, Casa vacanze Etna cocus, Syracuse
Accommodation: Resort, ResortIl Picciolo Etna Golf Resort & Spa (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today we head towards Mt Etna, a slumbering giant that towers over the rugged surrounding landscape. We’ll take in the views from Rifugio Sapienza and have an opportunity to ride the cable car for a closer look at its smouldering craters. Then: we’ll move on to a local winery for an indulgent lunch and wine pairing experience. Later, we'll make tracks for our accommodation in the foothills of Etna – where we’ll spend the next two nights.
Day 9: Etna Region – Taormina – Etna Region
Location: Taormina, Casa vacanze Etna cocus, Casa vacanze Etna cocus
Accommodation: Resort, Il Picciolo Etna Golf Resort & Spa (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today will be spent exploring the spectacular mountainside town of Taormina. Here, we will have plenty of time to indulge in some Sicilian dolce vita – but first: a guided visit to the dramatically situated ancient Greek theatre is in order. After a day spent exploring, tonight’s farewell dinner will be well deserved.
Day 10: Etna Region – Catania
Location: Catania, Casa vacanze Etna cocus
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today our adventure will end in Catania, but not before a walking tour of the ancient port city. Here we'll pay a visit to the city’s famous fish market, where you’ll have the opportunity to soak up the lively atmosphere. We’ll even stop by a historic pâtisserie to fill our own cannoli with ricotta cheese, and sample some traditional local sweets. What a way to round off the trip!
What's Included
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Accommodation
As detailed in the itinerary
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Fully Guided
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Entrance Fees
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Free Wi-Fi at Accommodation
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Meals
As detailed in the itinerary
What's Not Included
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Country Entry Visas
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Airport Transfers at Destination
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International Travel
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Drinks with Meals
Check out our Q&As
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Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?
Yes there is - 20kg and a max dimension of 158cm (W+D+L)
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Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?
Please see your local governments for rulings on destination Visa's
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What is the tipping policy?
At the discretion of the guest
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Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?
A Tour Leader and separate driver will take you on your journey
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Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?
Yes, please request at time of booking
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Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
From the Age of 13
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Is the tour coach air conditioned?
Yes the Coach is air-conditioned
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Are all entrance fees included in the price?
All Entrance fees listed are included
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What is the maximum group size?
18 is the maximum on any tour
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What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?
Hand Picked and Boutique
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Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?
Guests from all over the world could be joining you
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes, All guides are English speaking
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Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?
Ample free time due to low drive days
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Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?
This will be provided on final documentation
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Are flights included in this tour?
No they are not.
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Is there a supplement for solo travellers?
A Small supplement, but dedicated allocation on every tour
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What currencies are required for this tour?
Euro
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
No they are not.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
We have solo capacity, however no single share.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Upon final payments, we will distribute E-Documentation to all of our guests. Dont forget we also have our App to download as an added feature.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Like-minded travellers awaiting the opportunity to explore the less explored regions. Interests in food, wine, history, art as well as wartimes there will be a great mix of people to connect with on tour.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
We have our COVID Assurance Policy, Book now and relax knowing you are covered under our new COVID-19 Assurance Policy. At no additional cost to you, new bookings are now 100% refundable in the unfortunate event you are diagnosed with COVID-19 or unable to travel due to government-enforced lock downs prior to your scheduled departure date.
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What level of mobility do I need?
You need to be fit enough to get on and off the vehicle on a regular basis, and to walk both to attractions and around towns and villages. You also need to be able to walk up and down stairs in the hotels and use a shower over the bath. We frequently use traditional style hotels and the majority will not have lifts or ground floor rooms.
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Who goes on Back-Roads tours?
The majority of our guests come from Canada, the USA, the UK, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. All tour commentaries are in English. Our tours appeal to those looking for a more relaxing style of travel, and who enjoy culture, good food, meeting like-minded people and exploring destinations in depth.
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What is the minimum age for any Back-Roads Touring trip?
The minimum age on all of our trips is 18 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
All Hotels in line with protocols following the World Health Organisation meet and exceed requirements for all Touring with us.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Back-Roads Touring has been operating from the UK for over 30 years.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
Inline with our booking flexibility policy, you are able to make as many changes as required up to 60 days from departue - with 1 last included up until 30 days out.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Generally no, but in extraordinary circumstances it can be looked at.
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Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
Back-Roads Touring allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 60 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Back-Roads Touring allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform back-roads touring, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Back-Roads Touring requires a minimum deposit of 150 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of back-roads touring charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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