Road bike tour of Eastern Sicily
A road cycling tour through eastern Sicily is a unique experience, blending nature, culture, and history all together while pedalling through breathtaking landscapes. Mount Etna, Taormina, Palazzolo Acreide, Modica, Ragusa Ibla, Noto and Marzamemi are some of the charming places touched by our trip. This tour is perfect for cycling enthusiasts who also appreciate beauty and culture.
Day 1: Arrival
Transfer from Catania airport to Milo/Linguaglossa (Mount Etna) for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 2
Stage 1: Linguaglossa – Southern and Northern slopes of Mount Etna
Distance: approximately 80–100km
Elevation gain: 2,500–3,000m
The tour begins in Linguaglossa, a charming town on the northern slopes of Mount Etna. The first challenge is to climb the northern slope, cycling through oak and pine forests, before reaching the Altomontana trail and Rifugio Citelli. After a brief descent, the route continues uphill to the southern slope of the volcano, tackling the demanding ascent to Rifugio Sapienza (1,910m), the highest point of the stage.
Throughout the ride, the landscape constantly changes, from lush forests to expansive fields of black lava. After enjoying breathtaking panoramic views, a winding descent leads you back to Linguaglossa, passing by local vineyards and through small mountain villages.
This stage sets the tone for the tour, offering a mix of physical challenge and unique landscapes, immersing cyclists in the grandeur of the volcano.
Dinner and overnight stay in Linguaglossa (Mount Etna).
Day 3
Stage 2: Linguaglossa – Randazzo – Nebrodi Mountains – Alcantara Valley
Distance: approximately 80km
Elevation gain: 1,600m
The second stage starts in Linguaglossa, heading toward Randazzo, a medieval town known for its lava-stone churches and wonderful views of Mount Etna. After a brief stop to explore the historical center of the town, the route continues into the Nebrodi Mountains, an area of lush forests and rolling hills, offering a stark contrast to the volcanic scenery of the previous day.
The quiet roads wind through nature, leading to panoramic viewpoints perfect for admiring Mount Etna from a distance. After crossing the Nebrodi foothills, the route descends into the spectacular Alcantara Valley, winding through river-carved gorges, past ancient vineyards and fragrant citrus groves.
The stage concludes with a return to Linguaglossa, delivering a varied day combining history, nature, and the wild beauty of northeastern Sicily.
Dinner and overnight stay in Linguaglossa (Mount Etna).
Day 4
Stage 3: Etna – Peloritani Villages – Taormina
Distance: approximately 100km
Elevation gain: 2,500m
This stage begins with a gentle descent from Linguaglossa to the foothills of Mount Etna, passing by local vineyards and orchards. The route enters the heart of the Peloritani Mountains, climbing scenic roads through old villages such as Forza d’Agrò and Savoca, famous for their picturesque settings and film locations of the Godfather.
The steady climbs reward riders with spectacular views of the Ionian coast and, on a clear day, even the Aeolian Islands too. The route offers a mix of Mediterranean forests and rocky promontories overlooking the sea.
The highlight of the day is arriving in Taormina, a Sicilian gem. This timeless town welcomes cyclists with its Greek Theater, lively streets, and stunning sea views. This stage combines sport and culture and ends in a stunning setting.
Overnight stay in Giardini Naxos (Taormina).
Day 5
Stage 4: Giardini Naxos – Ionian Coast – Palazzolo Acreide
Distance: approximately 130km
Elevation gain: 1,600m
Starting in Giardini Naxos with its enchanting sea views, this stage follows the Ionian coast, passing golden beaches and charming seaside towns. Riders cycle through locations like Aci Trezza and Aci Castello, with their dramatic volcanic coastline, and Catania, the historic city, framed by Mount Etna in the background.
Leaving the coast, the route moves inland, crossing the fertile landscape of the Iblei Mountains. The undulating roads lead to Palazzolo Acreide, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The historic town offers a warm welcome with ancient palazzi, a Greek theater, and authentic Sicilian cuisine.
This stage is long but not overly demanding, offering a delightful mix of coastal beauty and the tranquility of the rolling countryside, providing cyclists with a captivating experience.
Dinner and overnight stay in Palazzolo Acreide.
Day 6
Stage 5: Palazzolo Acreide – Ragusa Ibla – Modica – Return
Distance: approximately 100km
Elevation gain: 1,800m
This stage explores the wonders of the Sicilian baroque architecture. From Palazzolo Acreide, the route heads toward Ragusa Ibla, winding through the Iblei countryside with its dry stone walls, olive trees, and carob groves. Ragusa Ibla itself which is famous for its stone churches and narrow alleys, offers postcard-perfect views.
Next is the town of Modica, renowned for its artisanal chocolate. The steep streets and baroque landmarks, such as the Cathedral of San Giorgio, make this an unmissable stop. After enjoying the famous chocolate, the route returns to Palazzolo Acreide through rural villages and rolling hills.
This stage blends cultural beauty with physical challenge and an unforgettable taste experience.
Dinner and overnight stay in Palazzolo Acreide.
Day 7
Stage 6: Palazzolo Acreide – Pachino – Marzamemi – Noto – Noto Antica – Return to Palazzolo Acreide
Distance: approximately 120km
Elevation gain: 1,600m
This final stage heads south, passing fertile plains dotted with olive groves and citrus orchards, before arriving in the town of Pachino, home of the famous Sicilian cherry tomatoes. Shortly after that, the route reaches Marzamemi, a charming fishing village with cobblestone streets, fishermen’s houses, and a central square located by the crystal-clear sea—a perfect spot for a refreshing Sicilian granita or delicious ice-cream.
From Marzamemi, the route turns north toward Noto, passing by the Vendicari Nature Reserve, rich in wildlife and unspoiled scenery. Noto, the baroque capital of Sicily, welcomes riders with its honey-colored stone buildings and vibrant atmosphere.
The tour continues onward to Noto Antica, an evocative archaeological site, before returning to Palazzolo Acreide. This stage combines nature, culture, and history, ending the tour on a high note with a memorable ride.
Dinner and overnight stay in Palazzolo Acreide.
Day 8: Departure
Transfer to the airport.
Total distance: 610 km
Total elevation gain: 11.000 m
Season: all year round
Included:
- 6 road bike excursions
- Qualified bike guide (Italian and English)*
- GPS device with GPS tracks to follow **
- 6 nights in 4 star Hotel/Agriturismo. Double or twin room. Half board accommodation, including water and house wine. Other beverages not included
- 1 night in 4 star hotel. Double or twin room. B&B accommodation in Giardini Naxos
- Luggage transfer from one accommodation to another
- Van support
- Transfer from/to Catania airport and hotels in the surrounding area
Extras:
- Single room accommodation: €220 per person
- Road bike rental (or e-bike) Giant TCR carbon: starting from €180 for the whole tour
What to wear and bring with you:
- Comfortable clothes suitable for biking, at least 2 complete sets and gloves
- Bike shoes or closed shoes e.g. trainers (no flip-flops or sandals!)
- A rain/wind jacket
- Sunglasses & sun cream
- A camera or smartphone if you want to take pictures
- A spirit of fun and adventure!
* For guided tours
** For self-guided tours
