Sicily Biking
- Fantastic biking in the shadow of Mount Etna
- Ascend the 142 tiled stairs of Caltagirone
- Incredible Sicilian Baroque architecture at World Heritage sites of Scicli, Módica, Donnalucata and Ragusa
- Marvel at archaeological treasures
Ancient Civilizations & Mediterranean Sensations
An island almost as close to Africa as to Europe. How does it hang on through history? With passion. That’s Sicily. Where the people are some of Europe’s friendliest hosts. Where artistic and architectural monuments hail from every century. Where you’ll ride among orange groves above the Mediterranean Sea as Mount Etna simmers on the horizon. Savor seafood that forever raises the bar. Grilled swordfish. Snapper prepared cipollata in a vinegar and sugar sauce. Sip bold red Nero d’Avola and admire vibrant local ceramics. Ready to surrender to an island’s passions? Let it be Sicily.
Day 1 Fantastic biking in the shadow of Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano 
A feast of traditional Sicilian cuisine awaits at a Slow Food osteria, nestled among Catania’s rolling hills Ride quiet roads through the Late Baroque towns of the Val di Noto to 15th-century Castello Camemi, our country home for two nights.
Days 2-3 Ascend the 142 tiled stairs in Caltagirone, inhabited since the Bronze Age and renowned for intricately painted ceramics The fragrance of orange blossoms wafts by as you pedal a route lined with windmills, orchards and olive groves Taste fresh-pressed olive oil at a centuries-old agriturismo An evening of folkloric music and dancing reveals vibrant Sicilian culture in full swing.
Day 4 Incredible Sicilian Baroque architecture at the World Heritage sites of Scicli, Módica, Donnalucata and Ragusa Dessert lovers rejoice! First it’s homemade gelato by the sea, then remarkable chocolate at Sicily’s oldest cioccolateria.
Days 5-6 Marvel at archaeological treasures Visit the ancient Greek theater in Akrai, founded in 664 B.C. Seafood antipasti, sardines and other local favorites melt in your mouth at one of the area's finest restaurants Stroll to historic seaside Siracusa's bustling fish market or soak up stunning Mediterranean views during a final morning spin.
Guests Reviews About This Trip
One thing I really love about this trip is its dual personality - you'll experience Sicily with ease and instant accessibility while still feeling like you've ventured off the beaten track. We've crafted the itinerary with quality riding in mind, with minimal need for shuttles. In fact, whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a less experienced rider, whether you're seeking a challenge in the hills or mellow cycling on valley roads, it's possible to pedal the entire distance without ever getting in the van.- Regional Manager, Italy
Premiere Inns
Castello Camemi
Vizzini Scalo (2 nights) A beautifully restored 15th-century fortified castle that was once home to a noble family. (pool, spa)
Eremo della Giubiliana
Ragusa (2 nights) With expansive ocean vistas and orchards of almonds, figs and olives, this elegant Condé Nast Traveler editor's pick dates back 900 years when it was a hermitage and fortress. (pool, spa)
Hotel des Etrangers et Miramare
Siracusa (1 night) With a great location in the center of Ortygia, a Sicilian Neoclassical-style inn with sea views from the guest rooms and rooftop terrace. (pool, spa)
Slovenia & Italy Biking
The Julian Alps & Friuli's Collio Wine Region
Classic:
Singles+Solos:
Puglia Biking
Italy's Sun-Drenched Adriatic Coast
Classic:
Singles+Solos:
Tuscany Biking
Timeless Landscapes & Renaissance Treasures
Classic:
Singles+Solos:
This Trip Is Rated Level 2-4
Routes For All Abilities
Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of
interests and fitness levels. We know your pace may vary from one
day to the next-and your traveling companion's may differ somewhat
from yours. So we present a range of mileage options, and each
day you decide exactly what and how much you want to do.
| Activity Level | Average Time | Road Bike Average | Mountain Bike Average* | Walk & Hike Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | 2-3 hours | 10-20 miles | 10-15 miles | 2-5 miles |
| Level 2 | 2-4 hours | 21-30 miles | 16-20 miles | 5-7 miles |
| Level 3 | 3-5 hours | 31-40 miles | 21-25 miles | 7-9 miles |
| Level 4 | 4-6 hours | 41-55 miles | 26-30 miles | 9-11 miles |
| Level 5 | 5-7+ hours | 56-75+ miles | 31+ miles | 11-13+ miles |
*Mountain bikes are used in locations where the best riding is on a combination of dirt and paved roads. View trip locations
Daily Mileage Options & Cumulative Elevation Gain
Day 1
- Level 1 1 Route Option Available
- 15 miles
- 600 feet elevation gain
Day 2
- Levels 2 to 5 4 Route Options Available
- 25, 35, 42, 56 miles
- 1800 - 3400 feet elevation gain
Day 3
- Levels 2 to 5 4 Route Options Available
- 24, 35, 55, 68 miles
- 700 - 4100 feet elevation gain
Day 4
- Levels 2 to 4 4 Route Options Available
- 27, 35, 41, 55 miles
- 800 - 3400 feet elevation gain
Day 5
- Levels 1 to 5 4 Route Options Available
- 20, 37, 55, 64 miles
- 1300 - 3100 feet elevation gain
Day 6
- Level 2 1 Route Option Available
- 22 miles
- 300 feet elevation gain
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For 33 years, Backroads has been perfecting the art of active travel. We are the Sicily tour experts. See our award-winning Europe Italy biking tours, Europe Italy walking and hiking tours and Europe Italy multisport tours.
