SECRETS OF SICILY CYCLING

This independent 8-night linear cycling holiday explores Sicily’s unspoilt western coast. Steeped in ancient history and culture, combined with a quintessential Mediterranean landscape of golden bays lapped by azure waters, vine studded countryside dotted with silvery olive groves and tiny sun-baked hamlets where time moves at a lazy pace, the region is ideal for gentle discovery on two wheels. Distances are fairly long, but it’s mainly flat, with a few short climbs rewarded by exhilarating downhill whizzes! We’ve put this tour together with our local agent, Crilù Travel, so you’ll have full support in Sicily during your stay.

Your holiday begins in mediaeval Scopello, a tiny cobbled hamlet superbly located above the idyllic Zingaro nature reserve, home to Bonelli’s eagles, falcons and buzzards, as well as perfect swimming coves. You then move inland to Buseto Palizzolo, visiting en-route the stunning ancient Greek city of Segesta nestled in pristine countryside, before returning to the sea at Nubia. Here ancient windmills and mounds of freshly harvested sea salt glisten against a backdrop of sapphire waters, with the rugged Egadi islands silhouetted on the horizon. Finally you pedal towards Marsala, renowned for its sweet dessert wine, with time to explore the Phoenician island of Mozia along the way.

Superb hotels are a highlight throughout; all are traditional Sicilian farmhouse (baglio) style, with rooms built around a central courtyard and each has an enticing swimming pool (usually open late May-September). Favourites include the luxuriously renovated coastal **** baglio at Nubia and the beautiful, antiquecrammed Vila Favorita just outside Marsala - dining here on the moonlit terrace overlooking the sea is unforgettable!

For more infomation about this holiday, including hotel descriptions, travel options and full holiday itinerary, please see our new 'further details' section.