We Bike Tuscany

Farms and noblemen's country residences are hidden among "enclosures" of ancient olive groves and middle-eastern gardens of citrus fruits. Ancient lands full of great emotions. The sea is perennially the colour of sapphire, the domain of dolphins and swordfish. And so it has been since the dawn of time. This is Sicily.

Tears of lava, limestone plains swept by the wind, sunny lands the colour of bronze where water meets fire. Here nature still dictates its rhythms. You can let yourself be enchanted by the magic spell of the fishermen and farmers who inhabit these isles, the last custodians of the ancient Mediterranean traditions. These are the Aeolian Islands.

Hospitality, relaxation, wonderful food...

You'll bike (and hike) following the traces of a civilisation step by step. A civilisation that on this island is truly ancient. The Sicilians have always been used to strangers. However, they can make you feel as if you are the first to arrive, privileged to enjoy their food and their friendship.

OVERVIEW

ITINERARY

Day 1 & 2

From Catania airport we transfer to Milazzo to board the hydrofoil to Lipari, the largest of the seven Eolian Islands. We spend the next two days biking and hiking the coast dotted with white Baroque villas, colorful fishing boats and a lively ports lined with cafes. Enjoy a granita and a cannolo in the sun-washed piazza after swimming by the beach of Acquacalda.

Day 3

By boat over to Vulcano for a great hike to the crater with a spectacular view of the Mediterranean Sea. Later soak in the bubbling sulphur mud baths (sooo relaxing!), swim in the cobalt blue water and sun bath on the beach. At sunset, feeling at peace with the world, stretch out on the deck of the boat taking us back to Lipari.

Three nights at Hotel Mea - Lipari.

Day 4 & 5

Transfer to Taormina, perched high above coast. In the afternoon browse the chic boutiques and discover what is considered one of the most beautiful and elegant towns in Italy. Our next day's ride is a challenging route to the hidden villages of the Agro Valley. Visit the village of Savoca where part of the Godfather was filmed (mandatory to watch it again before your departure to Italy!). Marvel at the 18th century mummies preserved in the Cappuccini Monastery.

Two nights at Hotel Villa Schuler - Taormina

Day 6 & 7

Grab your climbing boots before leaving the hotel in the morning for a challenging hike on the Mount Etna. We drive to the town of Nicolosi where we will meet with a professional alpine guide that will take us to the crater of the volcano. Climb the path along the lava fields and have a close look at this incredible lunar landscape.A late afternoon wine tasting with wonderful typical Sicilian snacks in one of the best local wineries will soothe your thirst after a day on the mountains.

Your final night is at the Villa Paradiso in Catania set near the base of Mt. Etna.