Saturday
Arrival in Catania, transfer to Portorosa resort, accomodation and bike assembly. In case of early flight we make light ride in surroundings. Then we explore our resort and test the sea. In the evening first trials with local pizza and beer in traditional pizzeria.
Sunday
Riding in National park Nebrodi, circuit round lake Trearie (43 km, ascent 1180 m) with breathtaking views of Etna from northwest. In backlands we shall encounter many farmers and animals and taste delicate salami and cheese.
Monday
Another ride in National park, biking in famous Rocche del Crasto up to main ridge of the mountains – Dorsale dei Nebrodi with fantastic views (35 km, ascent 1270 m). In the afternoon we shall admire world-known Black Madonna, amphitheatre and excavations round Tindari cathedral.
Tuesday
Early departure to Etna. We reach the ski resort near Sapienza Hut at 1900 asl by car. Then in saddles thru lava zigzags up to Torre del Filosofo at 3000 asl (9 km, ascent 1100 m). Common tourists ascending by offroad Unimogs shall make more photos of „crazy bikers“ then Etna itself. And then, if weather, vulcanologists and our stamina allows, we head to craters at 3300 asl. This time we meet no more tourists. Downhill is a must for any rider. Being back down we rinse the dust with beer and let the adrenaline drift out on the way to Siracusa, wonderful harbour town and former gate to European Mediterranean. Maybe, we catch the opening hours of Greek Theater. And then, immersed in narrow streets of island quarter Ortigia, we shall walk thru charming mixture of antic, byzantine, medieval and baroque buildings. Return to Portorosa in deep night.
Wednesday
Day off. Relaxation on the beach or optional boat trip to Eolian islands Lipari and Volcano or Panarea and Stromboli. Optional evening trip to Taormina. Class of original Italian Tiramisu making. Light biking thru dry channel of Mazzarra river (20-30 km, ascent 500-600m) for those staying in the resort.
Thursday
King stage of our riding in reservation Agrimusco Malabotta (39-56 km, ascent 1260-2020 m), neolitic stone megalithes. Sightseeing to Montalbano Elicona with jewels of stone architecture – castle and churches – which brought the town in the prestigious club of „The most beautiful medieval cities“.
Friday
Last trip to National park. We shall ride the hills round Monte Soro with characteristic broadcasting tower. Light stage with outdoor bathing (23 km, ascent 730 m). On return way optional trip to most beautiful coastal town of Cefalú. Sicilian week shall be concluded with astonishment of the beauties of famous cathedral Duomo with its mosaics. Nostalgic walk thru lazy town, tasting last gourmet miracles and showy sunset photos on the sea coast.
Saturday
Packing the bikes, transfer to Catania airport and departure.
The order of days in the programme can be modified according to the weather on Etna and offer of boat trips.
Trips to Siracusa, Montalbano and Tindari are included. Further trips to Taormina, Cefalu and Eolian islands are optional.
Siracusa – the trip follows the Etna track.
Montalbano Elicona – picturesque medieval city in the mountains welcomes us after one of our rides.
Tindari – ancient Tindaris complex close to Portorosa resort.
Taormina – city on the cliffs at eastern coast well known since ancient era for its mondaine atmosphere.
Cefalu – probably the most attractive coastal spot with famous Duomo and excellent restaurants.
Eolian islands – in gestion of local travel agencies. Half-day trip to Lipari and Volcano or day/night trip to Panarea and Stromboli with observation of eruptions.