Cycling in Sicily
Experience Overview
Classic Mediterranean landscapes, millennia-old history and some of Italy’s best food: Sicily is the perfect destination for a well-balanced cycling adventure. On the bike, we explore the southeastern part of the island, riding along the coast, through vineyards and to the edge of Cavagrande del Cassibile, one of the deepest canyons in Europe. Off the saddle, there’s culture and architecture in the UNESCO-listed baroque towns of Ragusa, Modica, Scicli and Noto, plus the chance to sample the superb regional cuisine and wine.
Profile
— Accommodation: 7 Classic nights (hotels) — Six days of cycling with partial vehicle support (limited seats) — Group normally 6 to 16. Minimum age: 16 — 95 percent paved; generally quiet, rural and rolling roads — Local bike hire included —
E-bikes available for an additional cost
At a Glance
— Accommodation: 7 Classic nights (hotels) — Six days of cycling with partial vehicle support (limited seats) — Group normally 6 to 16. Minimum age: 16 — 95 percent paved; generally quiet, rural and rolling roads — Local bike hire included —
E-bikes available for an additional cost
Trip For You
This trip is rated Activity Level 3 (Moderate) and classified as Road. For more information on our trip gradings please visit our Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
Six days of cyclingPartial vehicle support (due to limited seats) and a cycling guide.The route is 95 percent paved
Cycling profile: All the rides are door-to-door, meaning there are no transfers to or from hotels. Most of the cycling is along flat to hilly paved roads (mainly traffic-free); days 2 and 6 include more demanding ascents and rolling routes, so a reasonably good level of fitness is required. As we approach the main towns and cities, such as Syracuse, and around popular beach areas, there are busier sections with traffic at peak hours.
Support vehicle: A support vehicle, with limited spare seats and driven by a bicycle mechanic, is available throughout the trip, following at all times (pedestrian areas excluded). The driver will help you at junctions by giving route directions and allowing you to access any items you don’t wish to carry on the bike.
E-bikes: E-bikes are available on request for a fee payable prior departure.
Weather: The region normally has a relatively mild and sunny climate, but heatwaves and heavy rains are possible. This, along with consecutive cycling days, may increase the difficulty of the trip.
Considering all of this, we recommend you arrive physically prepared to tackle slightly more challenging routes by exercising regularly before the trip. You should also bring suitable equipment with you and always stay hydrated.
Group Description
There will be a cycling leader with the group, plus a bicycle mechanic driving the support van.
Eating Drinking
All breakfasts and one dinner are included.
Sicilian cuisine is a mix of the different cultures that have called this island home over the millennia: from the Greek and Arabs to the Normans and Spaniards. Soil here is incredibly fertile, with a perfect climate for the cultivation of fresh produce, such as olives, oranges, lemons, aubergines (eggplant), tomatoes, pistachios, almonds, grapes and more. Additionally, mussels, clams, tuna, swordfish and anchovies are fished right off the coast. This wide range of high-quality ingredients serves as a base for myriad dishes, resulting in a cuisine that’s fresh, varied and delicious.
Sicilian wines are also superb: grillo and inzolia are excellent white wines, Cerasuolo di Vittoria and Nero d’Avola are both fabulous reds, and marsala, moscato and zibibbo are wonderful dessert wines. As nearly 90 percent of Italian lemons grow in Sicily, sampling the local limoncello is a must.
On this trip there is the chance to join an optional picnic lunch, prepared by the support driver and your leader.
Dinners are taken at the hotels or local restaurants recommended by your guide, according to your budget and preferences.
Transportation
Transfers to/from the airport are by private vehicle. Your luggage is transported from hotel to hotel for you. The vehicle will be available with assistance on the later stages of rides. The tour leader cycles with the group.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Feudo Bauly, C/da Bauly, 96010 Noto SR, Italy
Phone: +39 0931 882088
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: Catania Airport (CTA)
Getting to the start hotel
Your options for this journey are:
Take an Exodus transfer
Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
Make your own way
It’s possible to reach the start hotel by public transport, but the journey is complicated. We therefore recommend joining the group transfer where possible. If not, speak to your sales representative to organise a private transfer. On arrival at the hotel, please make the reception staff aware that you are part of an Exodus group and they will have more details on meeting with your leader and group
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to the airport that's scheduled to align with a flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Weather Information
Sicily has a good year-round climate, with plenty of sunshine and warm-to-hot temperatures. The summer departures ought to have daily hot sunshine and temperatures can reach 30C-35C (86F-95F). The earlier and later departures will be cooler with a slightly higher chance of rain – make sure you pack some warm clothing if you travel in low season. In late summer, there is the possibility of heavy thunderstorms, but these are usually short-lived.
Spending Money
For lunches and dinners not included, allow €300 per person for the week, depending on the standard of restaurant chosen.
The Vendicari Nature Reserve has introduced an entrance fee of €3.50 per person (subject to the local authority’s annual review).
Local taxes: Many Italian cities have a tourist tax for non-residents. The local administration oversees the tax, which will be collected by the accommodation provider at check-in or check-out. This fee varies depending on the hotel category, the season and number of days of stay. It is usually between €1 and €4 per person per night. For this trip, please allow approximately €10-€15 for the week.
Tipping
Our local staff are paid well and fairly for their work with Exodus. However, most of our clients wish to tip their guides in appreciation of their help. This, of course, is not compulsory and depends on the service received. If you would like to leave a tip, as a guide we would suggest approximately €20 for the leader and €10 for the support van driver, in two different envelopes.
Highlights
— Discover the best of Sicily by bike with a small group of like-minded adventurers — Ride through UNESCO-listed baroque towns in the Val di Noto, Marzamemi and Syracuse — Cycle to Cavagrande del Cassibile, one of the deepest canyons in Europe — Cool off with refreshing dips in hotel pools and in the Mediterranean Sea — Sample the exquisite regional cuisine and wine of Sicily
Trip Details
Product Code: 4185
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: he group.
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Exodus Travel
Supplier Code: MWY
Starts: Palazzolo Acreide, Italy
Finishes: Palazzolo Acreide, Italy
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Average
Includes
— All breakfasts and one dinner — All accommodation — All transport and listed activities — Tour leader throughout — Local bike hire — Group arrival and departure transfers availableAccommodation
Hotels and an agriturismoOn this cycling adventure in Sicily, we stay in hotels and an agriturismo, which were selected for their friendly atmosphere and character. Most are conveniently located near the UNESCO-listed historic centres we visit. Below are the properties normally used: Palazzolo Acreide: Feudo Bauly (night 1) Our adventure begins in this historic hotel run by the Corsino family. The stone-walled restaurant serves traditional Sicilian cuisine made from local, seasonal produce – you might even see black truffles sourced from nearby Bauly Forest on the menu. There’s also a swimming pool when you’d like some downtime. Modica: Ferro Hotel (night 2) Within a renovated building once used for railway workers, the Ferro Hotel takes us to modern Sicily. The contemporary décor pays tribute to the locomotive history of the building and there’s a varied spread for breakfast. The hotel itself is within walking distance of the main town. Marzamemi: Agriturismo Tenuta Arangio (nights 3-4) Enjoy a rural idyll with a stay at this agriturismo (farm stay). It’s a traditional Sicilian estate, owned by the Arangio family since 1980, and they still grow produce here. There’s also a large swimming pool area in the courtyard, where you can relax under the shade of olive trees. Noto: Grand Hotel Sofia (night 5-6) Back to more conventional hotel comforts, the Grand Hotel Sofia has an outdoor swimming pool with a bar (and happy hour). There’s also a restaurant, Limoneto, which serves Sicilian and Mediterranean dishes made from local produce, plus a small bar area. Syracuse: Hotel Centrale (night 7) The majority of groups spend their final night at Hotel Centrale, though some stay at Hotel Posta, Grande Albergo Alfeo or Hotel Gargallo, depending on availability. Centrale is one of the oldest hotels in Syracuse and close to local attractions including the Archaeological Park of Neapolis. When you're not out exploring, the hotel has a garden and reading room.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $3,420 ($428 /day)
Itinerary
We start in Palazzolo Acreide, a maze of narrow streets and baroque churches that was built following an earthquake in 1693 on the site of an ancient Greek colony. The tour leader will give a welcome briefing and, if there’s time, we will do the bike fitting. Depending on the arrival time of the group, we may have the chance to explore Palazzolo Acreide. If not, we look around the town tomorrow morning. Accommodation: Feudo Bauly (or similar)
We start our adventure with a ride through the beautiful lower valleys of the Hyblaean Mountains, passing olive plantations and dry-stone walls that characterise this area. We then climb into the highlands to Ragusa Ibla, a town built over three hills separated by a deep valley, and home to beautiful baroque churches and buildings. We then cycle to Modica, a Sicilian baroque town at the bottom of a gorge. After the ride, we recommend trying Modica chocolate, still prepared using the Aztec recipe brought over by Spaniards in the 1500s. We stay overnight in Modica. Accommodation: Ferro Hotel (or similar)
We leave Modica and ride along a ravine that slopes downhill until we reach another outstanding example of Sicilian baroque architecture, Scicli, where the popular Inspector Montalbano TV series was filmed. We continue further south until we meet the Mediterranean coast, where we stop for lunch and a swim. Getting back on the bikes, we cycle along the shore to the area of San Lorenzo, where our agriturismo (converted farmhouse) is located. Accommodation: Agriturismo Tenuta Arangio (or similar)
A loop ride takes us through vineyards and past cherry tomato greenhouses (where the renowned Pomodoro di Pachino tomatoes are cultivated). If we are lucky, we may spot flamingos, herons and other migratory birds in marshes along the way. We then follow the coastline to Portopalo di Capo Passero, the southernmost village in Sicily (further south than Tunis). Here, we stop for coffee and a chance to swim where the Mediterranean and Ionian seas meet. We reach our lunch stop in Marzamemi, a picturesque fishing village of Arab origins, before returning to the agriturismo for a second night. Accommodation: Agriturismo Tenuta Arangio (or similar)
A short ride brings us to the beautiful Vendicari Nature Reserve. This narrow stretch of marshy coastline provides a rare and now completely protected habitat for migratory bird species and the local flora and fauna. A short walk will take us to beautiful sandy beaches, perfect for a swim in the Mediterranean Sea. As we leave the reserve behind, we head north to Noto, another Unesco World Heritage site. It’s a planned town in the Late Sicilian baroque style, all built in a beautiful honey-coloured stone. A must-try in Noto is the delicious cannoli alla ricotta and almond pastries. We stay overnight in Noto. Accommodation: Grand Hotel Sofia (or similar)
We start our day with a challenging but rewarding 4mi (6km) climb to San Corrado di Fuori, where we stop for a well-deserved coffee. Continuing the cycle, we reach the archaeological site of Noto Antica, the original settlement of Noto, which was destroyed by the 1693 earthquake. Another ascent takes us to the viewpoint of Cavagrande del Cassibile (1,657ft/505m), one of the deepest canyons in Europe, where we enjoy a lunch stop with sweeping views of the gorge and the Cassibile river far below. In the afternoon, we enjoy a magnificent descent with hairpin bends towards the coast, before returning to Noto for a second night in this wonderful city. Accommodation: Grand Hotel Sofia (or similar)
Today's gentle ride will lead us first to Avola for an espresso or cappuccino, then along the coast to Syracuse, passing beautiful beaches where we will stop for a refreshing sea dip. Once we arrive in Syracuse, described by Cicero as "the greatest Greek city and the most beautiful of them all", our tour leader will provide a short orientation tour of Ortigia, the island where the city was founded. In the afternoon, there is free time to explore at your own pace, do some shopping or visit the archaeological park with its spectacular hillside Greek theatre. We stay overnight in Syracuse. Accommodation: Hotel Centrale (or similar)
The trip ends in Syracuse after breakfast. If you’d like a bit more time to explore, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
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Tour Operator
Exodus Travel
It’s all about adventure That is what Exodus was founded upon 50 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on. At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved. This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday. Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments. See our history page for more details about how we began and how we have grown over the past 50 years. Never travelled with Exodus before? Visit our New to Exodus page for some useful, first-timer information.
In Business Since 1974
Reviews
Helen Quick - Traveled, August 2023
Spot on again from Exodus Perfect combination of cycling, sightseeing and fun! Most Inspirational Moment Reaching the top of Cavagrande del Cassibile, one of the deepest canyons in Europe in blistering heat - using only pedal power, to be rewarded by a wonderful picnic lunch prepared by Davide and the minibus driver, Giuseppe. Thoughts on Group Leader Davide was spot on for this trip. He gave us all confidence in our abilities to enable us to get the most out of the trip. His passion and love for Sicily was evident throughout, an amazing ambassador for his island. There can't be enough hours in the day for all the things Davide sorted out - restaurants, transfers, bike changes - nothing was too much trouble. And what a great sense of humour - he loved learning new English idioms and trying to use them on a daily basis. Advice for Potential Travellers Be prepared for heat and hills - the rewards will far outweigh the effort! Be prepared to try new foods - the flavours are vibrant and bold. Be prepared to cycle in traffic - the group leader will ensure you are safe. Go for an e-bike if you are not confident - it would be a shame to miss out on this awesome trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/18/2023
Sue Duncombe - Traveled, May 2023
Another great Italian Exodus trip! Beautiful Baroque towns, great coastal views, delicious food and a brilliant guide Most Inspirational Moment Cycling into Syracuse - such impressive architecture! A super way to finish. Thoughts on Group Leader Davide was a brilliant guide. He was a fantastic Ambasador for Sicily, sharing his knowledge about the places we went to in an interesting way. His restaurant recommendations provided us with some delicious food. He bonded well with the group and had a great sense of humour. Thank you Davide!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/15/2023
Graeme Mackenzie - Traveled, October 2022
Cycling in Sicily - October 2022 10 out of 10. Davide Di Mauro leads the cycling (from local tour guide company CicloFree) and works really hard to ensure the cycle tour is well organised and great fun. Giuseppe (van back up driver) provided solid back up support all day long with water and any other assistance always available if required. Accommodation all of a good standard. Cycling pitched at the right level without being overly strenuous. Davide ensures that all routes are safe and relatively low traffic routes. Davide puts lots of effort into selecting / suggesting places to eat. All of which were of outstanding quality but not necessarily expensive. I will remember the tour almost as much for culinary highlights as well as for cycling highlights. The cycling was excellent with the bikes being of high quality and very well maintained. Most of all however is the knowledge and enthusiasm that Davide has for Sicilian culture and nature. It was a huge pleasure to be part of a cycle tour led by Davide. Davide made sure the tour was fun from start to finish with his great sense of humour. Most Inspirational Moment Visiting the various old towns such as Palazzolo Acreide, Ragusa, Monica, Noto and Syracuse. Cycling back down the road of hairpin bends to Noto from the Cavagrande National Reserve. Thoughts on Group Leader Our tour Davide Di Mauro was excellent and made the whole trip enjoyable for all. Davide works really hard to ensure everything goes to plan but also is flexible when required to ensure everyone on the tour gets as much as possible from each days cycling. Davide has a fantastic knowledge of Sicilian culture and history which adds a great deal to the enjoyment of the tour. Davide also has an excellent relationship with all the accommodation providers and restaurants which ensures everything goes smoothly and the group get a warm welcome at all stops. On top of all, Davide has a great sense of humour and prides himself on collecting many everyday English language commonly used sayings - which he uses at different moments which is very funny. Advice for Potential Travellers No. All went as expected. Suggestions The communication from Exodus with instructions / requirements before the holiday were very clear. I opted to arrange my own flights from Edinburgh, flying into and out of Palermo rather than Catania. Exodus were extremely helpful in providing travel options to and from Palermo to the cycle tour start and end locations. Exodus also booked the additional accommodation I required before and after the formal tour start and end and a further nights accommodation in Palermo. This was all achieved without any hitches.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/31/2022
Pat Bacon - Traveled, August 2022
How much fun can you have! Post covid the first trip with Exodus, a little bit of anxiety, a long time since a cycling holiday, however, already decided that based on past experience, I would not be disappointed. Aboslutely right, having spent endless hours worrying about getting fit again, Covid had not been kind to me, I realised that I was not unfit. So enjoyment was the usual making new friends, seeing a country that I had not visited before, tasting and enjoying the culinary delights, understanding the culture, seeing wonderful sights and all on two wheels. But most of all thanks to our guide and everyone else on the trip having a very good time, the latter being an understatement. Even a bit of rain could not put a dampner on the holiday. Most Inspirational Moment So many Thoughts on Group Leader Excellent, command of English good and his care and concern over safety and welfare, his understaning of idioms a delight. Advice for Potential Travellers Don't hesitate book.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/20/2022
Clive Elliott - Traveled, September 2022
Great leader and super enjoyable cycling Davide was a first class leader – fun, adaptable, friendly, considerate, and managed the group really well; he deserves 5 stars personally. E-bikes were the best ever. Excellent hotels except the one in Syracusa which is not an acceptable standard (room and breakfast). Fascinating insight into Sicilian history, culture and ecology – Davide knew so much and made every trip interesting. Cycling was very good overall – a couple of really good and challenging rides including stunning scenery though cycling days 3 and 4 could have been longer and more interesting ideally. A very nice group which gelled well. Most Inspirational Moment Davide as group leader and the cycling day 5 ride which was challenging (hills and rain) but immensely rewarding with some great scenery and a fabulous downhill S-bend section towards the end with stunning views towards the coast Thoughts on Group Leader As above - faultless Advice for Potential Travellers If you are thinking about an e-bike but not sure then do it - some hills are challenging and the bikes are top class. Snacks not provided and have to be bought so you might want to take some as a contingency Suggestions The Syracusa hotel needs to be changed - it is below an acceptable standard and not a good way to finish the trip
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/29/2022
Claire Bloxham - Traveled, April 2022
Popping my Cycling Holiday Cherry Well, with such glowing reviews underneath I almost feel a bit miffed that Davide treats everybody with such genuine accord – I thought we were special ?? Joking aside, Davide and Guiseppe are genuinely brilliant at their jobs. They made our trip such a special experience, well managed, super organised, tough on the uphill but what a joy on the down, stupendous vistas, fun and safe. They made us all feel cared for and no request was too big or small. I enjoyed the encouragement of “Brava Clara” when I got to the top of a particularly tough hill. My favourite day was the toughest hill-wise but the break for lunch a picnic Davide and Guiseppe had prepared, full of local ingredients, made with Sicilian panache was worth the aching muscles (bum). Syracuse for me was the icing on the cake. A seaside town full of the most beautiful architecture making it very hard not to slide into its romantic vibe. I’ve just got back and am feeling a bit blue I don’t have to be up with the group for 8.45am to cycle off to some fabulous Sicilian town. Enjoy it people. You will love it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/28/2022
Graham Swift - Traveled, August 2019
Fabulous Sicily This is our 6th Cycling holiday and one of the best so far. We were lucky to be part of a wonderful group made up of folks from the UK, Australia, NZ and Canada. We all had lots of laughs and good times. Some of the hills were challenging but all the better for 6/15 being e-bikes, so don’t be afraid to book an e-bike. Some beautiful towns and scenery as well as good hotels, delicious food and restaurants selected by our group leader Davide. Most Inspirational Moment Too many to mention but arriving in Noto was spectacular where we had a fabulous pizza. Thoughts on Group Leader Davide was an amazing young man who had a lot of passion for his country and wanted you to share it at every level. A really good group leader and well briefed on local history and culture. Must also mention Giuseppe the mechanic, driver and picnic man, whilst he couldn't speak English, he observed the group and made sure we were all looked after. Advice for Potential Travellers If in any doubt of your cycling abilities just book an e-bike. We loved them and they worked well with the group. The hotels were all good but remember to bring your swim shoes. Also if you like an early morning coffee, bring a travel kettle. Tea & coffee facilities are not provided in your room. Some roads coming into the towns can be quite busy, so make sure you are confident with riding in traffic. Suggestions This was the first trip we have been on where we were able to take part in a cokery lesson at the Agro-Tourism hotel, great fun including a glass of wine.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/25/2019
Sarah Kleinitz - Traveled, August 2019
What a ride This was a fantastic introduction to Sicily and to planned cycling tours. We had a fantastic group of 15 riders from the UK, NZ, Canada and Ireland. We ate and rode together every day. The weather at this time of year is great for cycling. Most Inspirational Moment Reaching the top of each and every long climb. Thoughts on Group Leader Davide is conscientious, witty and engaging. We enjoyed sharing novel examples of English sayings and learning more about Sicily from him. Advice for Potential Travellers Train for the uphills Cleat pedals are a big advantage Enjoy the moments Suggestions Some road crossings need you to be very cautious. Best to take time and care to cross safely
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/18/2019
Gail Hopper - Traveled, May 2019
Great trip A delightful trip from many perspectives. Lovely scenery and interesting places to visit in the south of island. Very good company of lovely people. Amazing food. Hot weather What’s not to like?? Most Inspirational Moment Not necessarily inspirational but some really enjoyable experiences. On bike - the challenging climb up to Cavagrande del Cassibile and the wonderful views from the top. Off bike - possibly arriving in Noto or the wander through Marzamemi - really was a picturesque fishing village, followed by Guiseppe’s picnic, relaxation and swim at the agriturisimo Thoughts on Group Leader Davida was a gentleman. Totally committed to ensuring we had a safe and enjoyable trip, kind and humorous. We liked his “stories” and his growing collection of English colloquialisms, that he tried to feed into daily conversation. He was well organised, ensuring an early start and finish so we had time to relax, swim or explore at the end of each ride. He knew, was proud of and described his country well. He wanted us to see the best of it ( and we almost did ). Took us to some lovely places to eat, to get the best pizza in Noto, antipasto in Syracuse and gelato and cannoli anywhere. A man with good taste! Giuseppe his assistant was a great supporter/driver/ bike mechanic and picnic provider. He has limited English but we managed to get by and the two made a good team. Advice for Potential Travellers Be aware of how hot it can be in early June. Was 37degrees on day one. Didn’t fall below 30 all week. Davida sensibly had us out early each morning before it became unbearably hot. In some of the rural areas near the coast there were appalling amounts of rubbish dumped along the roadsides. We understood this was a result of political decisions about tax linked to recycling. This isn’t something Exodus are responsible for or able to change ( though I fear it could impact on tourism if it isn’t addressed). So very sad to destroy beautiful countryside. Suggestions Sicily is very interesting and well worth a visit - lots of lovely places to enjoy on this trip. Would highly recommend it. The accommodation was generally good - even the less smart places had the benefit of lovely hosts and good food. I liked the fact that there were no transfers and we cycled door to door each day, but we also had 2 nights in 2 hotels so didn’t have to pack up every morning
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/14/2019
Timothy Sullivan - Traveled, June 2019
Cycling in sicily The leader was excellent. The support person Giuseppe was also excellent. The bikes were good. The routes were very good and well planned. The accomodation was ok and variable. The starting accomodation had a disco night going till 2.0 pm just below our room! Meals provided ranged from poor to good. Most Inspirational Moment Cycling gently along narrow country roads through rural Sicily. Thoughts on Group Leader Davide Di Mauro Was an excellent leader. Also mention the support, Giuseppe, also excellent. Advice for Potential Travellers Definitely use E bikes if you are older or not an experienced cyclist. Suggestions A great adventure with a very good group of companions
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/30/2019
Brigitte Schneeloch - Traveled, April 2019
Cycling in Sicily An excellent cycling trip, for me in a less well known area of southern Sicily. The cycling was good, and the hills were more than manageable with my very dependable ebike. Our leader made sure that we also packed in as much sight seeing as possible, so we learned a lot of cultural background to the places we visited. All were very interesting, but ending up in Syracuse and having plenty of time for eating wonderful food, and sight seeing, was a surprising bonus. I thoroughly enjoyed this trip and would recommend it to anybody! Most Inspirational Moment As above: visiting Syracuse, and seeing the Baroque town of Noto Two very beautiful places Thoughts on Group Leader He was just wonderful! Full of knowledge, helpful, guiding us safely through traffic, And up the hills. And down again!!! Lots of fun, always on the lookout to avoid any potential problems. He and the very patient van driver guided us safely on the road sections And they excelled at making us wonderful picnic lunches on 3 occasions! Advice for Potential Travellers If you want to see Sicily, then go for this trip! Depending on the season, it can be chilly . Be prepared to cycle some significant hills!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/18/2019
Fenella Butler - Traveled, April 2019
Cycling in Sicily this was an amazing holiday I cannot rate Davide highly enough, he is knowledgable, kind and thoughtful and guided us so well. He is great fun. Giuseppi the driver also made a great difference, he took care of us at every steo, another kind and helpful man. The two men made an excellent team It would have been good to have been told that there would only be sandwiches on the plane then a long drive and no food at the hotel. The hotel was great and did their best giving us some bread and olives. If possibly would be much much better to travel earlier both going and coming back. Most Inspirational Moment being saved from falling off my bike because of the high winds by the leader. and coming down from the Cava Grande, 7 k of hairpin bends. Thoughts on Group Leader Totally amazing - see comments in summary Advice for Potential Travellers Yes get yourself some food to eat on the plane and ask Exodus to get earlier flights. Suggestions Go on choosing where possible really good driver/machanics like Giuseppi - would not have been such a good trip without him. I have made a decision not to fly just for a holiday - so next time will have to budget for a train journey. has exodus considered getting group bookings on trains for ecologically aware travellers.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/20/2019
Bronwyn Snow - Traveled, May 2018
Beautiful Sicily We enjoyed a wonderful cycling holiday in Sicily. We now have such an appreciation of Sicily’s rich cultural past, the delicious Sicilian cuisine and the beautiful countryside we cycled through. Most Inspirational Moment The thrill at having cycled up the 10km climb and then the joy of riding down the other side on day 6. Thoughts on Group Leader Iris is an inspiration! She is so capable, friendly, knowledgeable and approachable. Exodus are very fortunate to have her on their team. A really lovely person in every way. Advice for Potential Travellers Come and do the cycling tour in Sicily, you won't be disappointed ! Suggestions The back up team on this tour did an excellent job also. They were very responsive to both Iris and the group and did everything to keep us safe, to have the bikes working well and to transport the luggage each day.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/30/2018
Graham Mosley - Traveled, April 2018
Sicily enjoyed This trip opened my eyes; I had thought of Sicily as a hard, arid kind of place, but six days of enjoying the lovely people, wonderful food and interesting sights along the way changed all that. It started well, and then got better and better. Most Inspirational Moment The lunch on the day we biked to Noto. Can't remember where it was but we'd had a good ride, hot and tired, and then we arrived at a quiet oasis of dappled shade. We were presented with a range of tasty Sicilian dishes. Lovely atmosphere - I didn't want to leave. Thoughts on Group Leader Others have commented on how good a leader Iris has been. She was very, very good, in a quiet and considerate way. She handled a large group of 17 easily but still had time for individual's issues. In particular, she was well organised and always gave just the right amount of useful information at the right moment. Thanks Iris! Suggestions I was concerned when I saw that the group would be large, 17 people, in fact. However, it was a great bunch of people who gelled well, better than some smaller groups. No cliques, no delays, no grumbles so thanks to one and all for a great trip! This was a 'point to point' trip; each day we cycled from one hotel to the next which adds to the sense of making a journey by bike. Much better than having piling into a bus for some sections. Sometimes it is unavoidable, of course, such as in India, but it confirms to me that when looking for a trip remember that the 'point to point' is an important factor.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/17/2018
Jane Loughridge - Traveled, April 2018
Beautiful country We enjoyed a lovely week’s cycling in Montalbano country along quiet roads surrounded by red and yellow flowers and smelling oleander and citrus blossom. Iris was an excellent guide who never flapped , always ensuring our safety on the roads . The bikes were the best I have hired on an Exodus trip . Most Inspirational Moment Looking down on beautiful Modica from above after a glorious cycle on the first day . Also the delicious picnics provided , at an extra cost , along the way . Thoughts on Group Leader Iris was very organized and supported the group well . She will be a hard act to follow! Suggestions An extra day in Noto would have been lovely rather than 2.5 in Syracuse.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/15/2018
Simon Hopper - Traveled, October 2018
Great week cycling in Sicily, but very disappointing flights A great week’s cycling in Sicily in October. Weather and scenery were great (sunny in high 20’s), the group was very entertaining and got on so well that all 16 of us ate together every night, and the tour guides were very helpful, friendly and informative. The cycling route could have been extended, as there were a couple of very light days, but the only real problem was the group flights (see advice below). Most Inspirational Moment Not really any inspirational moments - Sicily was great and the group of 16 got on very well together. Thoughts on Group Leader Davide di Mauro was excellent throughout. Advice for Potential Travellers Book your own flights - Exodus group booking means you can't pre-book seats (or even be sure that you will sit next to your partner / friends), you can't check in online, and you get whatever Exodus can find cheapest. We ended up travelling from Heathrow to Milan to catch a connection to Sicily (and almost missed connection on return flight) when we could have flown direct with BA from Gatwick, and the four of us were scattered all over all four flights. Not an enjoyable way of starting or ending your holiday ! Suggestions Offer customers alternative flight options so they can pay extra for what they want.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/20/2018
Louise Keesing - Traveled, September 2018
Cycling in Sicily A great ride through the outskirts of the region. Accomodation was very good and the farmhouse stay and food exclent. Loved the pasta cooking lesson. Most Inspirational Moment Pasta cooking and watching the olive picking Thoughts on Group Leader She was excellent, fun, with us all the way and rapidly found a great alternative when it was too windy. Advice for Potential Travellers Sicily is much easier than the Amalfi coast and probably don't need an E bike if you can cycle 50km. Really enjoyed Sicily. Suggestions No
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/17/2018
Helen O'Connor - Traveled, August 2018
The best of everything This trip was so good for the soul: amazing guide (Iris), superman (Giuseppe), towns, laughs, food, beer, wine, sun, storms, swims and group – all in equal measures. Most Inspirational Moment Inspirational no, but as a fan of Montalbano, I was beside myself with giddiness when we got a quick look inside his 'police station and office' in Scicli. Lifetime firsts: I ate a prickly pear, cycled past fields of aubergines and pomegranates and found a fizzy water vending machine where you can fill your own bottle - why don't we have these at home?! I appreciated having 2 hotels where we stayed 2 nights each, particularly the agriturismo, with lovely pool and great staff. I loved all the places we visited, but Siracusa had a particular hold on me. Thoughts on Group Leader Iris was wonderful. She made us all feel very safe, was super organised and attentive and good fun. A gem. Her side-kick Giuseppe was brilliant too. Advice for Potential Travellers A bit of training beforehand would be good to help you up those hills, particularly if you haven't been on your bike for a while! Although, with e-bikes an option now, it's maybe not required. One point on the e-bikes, some people found them heavy and clunky on the descents. Bring a raincoat for any short, but heavy downpours. Be prepared for a lot of eating.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/12/2018
Jane Holt - Traveled, August 2018
Thoroughly enjoyable An excellent holiday all round. Beautiful scenery and architecture, great bikes, lovely company and a fantastic guide in Iris, supported brilliantly by the two Guiseppes! Most Inspirational Moment Cycling into Noto for a fab lunch after a challenging morning! Thoughts on Group Leader Iris is knowledgeable, a great leader and good fun to be on holiday with.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/14/2018
Bob Snow - Traveled, April 2018
A wonderful ride in Sicily Everything about this ride was great. The scenery, the towns we visited, the food, the accommodation, our fellow cyclists and most certainly our guide Iris and her backup team. Most Inspirational Moment The ascent to the canyon of Cavagrande del Cassibile and the views from the top, followed by the exhilarating descent to Avola. Thoughts on Group Leader Iris was absolutely great in every way.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/15/2018
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