Walking & Cycling Holidays in Sicily

Our activity holidays in Sicily are based in the undiscovered west of the region, rich in historical interest; the south-east of the region, famous for its UNESCO World Heritage towns, chocolate and wines; and the Aeolian Islands, the volcanic archipelago in the Tyrrhenian Sea north of Sicily.

The west is a former Arab kingdom, Palermo's Conca d'Oro (a ring of citrus groves) is an Arabian import. Many towns with their white-washed low walled square houses, such as Marettimo, would not look out of place in North Africa. The countryside is gentler here, than on Etna's flanks, characterised by sloping vine-terraced hills giving way to shingle coves and sandy bays lapped by sapphire waters.



The south has always been the preserve of the Spanish - Ragusa, Noto and Ispica were all rebuilt according to Spanish Baroque in the 17th century after an earthquake. Today their cathedrals could grace any Andalucian square. These gracious towns perch above dramatic limestone gorges, lined with oleander and carob trees. On the coast, you'll find miles of unspoilt, wide sandy beaches. Home to Europe's largest volcano, Mount Etna, this is a land of fertile terraces, bougainvillaea-decked squares and rocky volcanic shores, perfect for exploring on a gentle activity holiday.

The pristine western coast is a region of tranquillity, with azure waters and picture-perfect sandy coves. Just off Trapani lies the Egadi Islands, which are a true walkers' paradise. When walking in Sicily, you'll see a fantastic mix of volcanoes and interesting towns, and taste delicious local cuisine. If you're ready to plan your next adventure, feel free to contact our friendly team of experts today.

Where can I go walking in Sicily?

We've hand-picked some of the most picturesque and scenic routes for our Sicily walking holidays - look at some of the locations below:

Zingaro

Our Secrets of Sicily walking trail takes you to the Zingaro Nature Reserve, where you'll wind your way through the wild fennel, pomegranate, and citrus trees. You'll find amazing viewpoints which overlook the beautiful coastline, and the reserve is home to around 40 bird species - perfect if you're an avid bird watcher, and even if you're not, who can resist watching rare Bonelli eagles and other birds of prey on the wing?

Marettimo

Marettimo, the most remote of the three Egadi islands, is an ideal destination for those who want to learn more about Sicilian history and culture. See where the Romans and Carthaginians fought the First Punic War in the second century BC, and visit the 12th-century Norman Castello di Punta Troia. Don't miss the stunning whitewashed houses that dot the landscape against a backdrop of shimmering, turquoise waters.

Aeolian Islands

Book our Volcanoes of Sicily walk to island hop between the Aeolian Islands. Admire the spectacular Greek theatre of Taormina and visit Mount Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe. This Sicilian slice of paradise offers clear blue waters and volcanic beaches for those who fancy a refreshing swim en route

Where can I visit on a Sicily cycling tour?

Our cycling tours of Sicily offer routes that incorporate stunning coastlines, ancient ruins, exceptional food stops and the best of the island's traditional architecture. Here are a few of the things you can see on a trip with us.

Southeast Sicily

Opt for our cycling tour of Baroque Sicily and you'll enjoy an eight-night stay in one of the island's most culturally diverse regions. The lower right corner of Sicily is ripe with Roman and Greek architecture, with the city of Syracuse - a place Cicero once considered the most beautiful of all Greek cities - one of the highlights. Across southeast Sicily, you'll see a stunning portfolio of Baroque architecture, unscathed natural coastline and be spoilt with some of the best food around.

The west coast

Western Sicily is home to the island's economic and tourist capital in Palermo, but much of the west coast remains largely untouched and undiscovered. Our cycling holidays in western Sicily look to uncover the secrets behind this historically rich region. See the famous 3rd century BC temple at Segesta, and marvel at over two-and-a-half millennia of history at Selinunte Archaeological Park.