Self-Guided Cycling: Cycle The Secrets of Sicily - Italy Cycling Holiday

Archaeological treasures, secluded coves and tranquil hamlets
Characterful hotels with swimming pools
Cycle peaceful coastal paths and citrus scented trails

Sicily's undeveloped western coast is steeped in ancient history and culture; the quintessential Mediterranean landscape of azure waters, vineyards and olive groves is ideal for gentle discovery on two wheels. Our holiday begins in mediaeval Scopello, a tiny cobbled hamlet superbly located above the idyllic Zingaro nature reserve. We then move inland to Buseto Palizzolo, visiting the ancient Greek city of Segesta, before returning to the sea at Nubia. Here ancient windmills and mounds of freshly harvested sea salt glisten against a backdrop of sapphire waters, with the rugged Egadi Islands silhouetted on the horizon.

Finally we pedal towards Marsala, renowned for its sweet dessert wine. There is time to explore the Phoenician island of Mozia along the way. Superb hotels are a highlight throughout; all are traditional Sicilian farmhouse (baglio) style, and each has a swimming pool.

What makes this trip responsible?

Tourism can be a real help to local communities, providing income, positive cultural exchanges and a financial incentive to protect their natural environment. Ours is a 'total approach' to responsible tourism, covering everything from the way we plan and operate our trips to the practices of Exodus as a company.

As a self-guided trip you will be pedalling under your own steam and at your own pace. You will not be part of a group so the impact of your visit on the landscape and communities you pass will be absolutely minimal. Our local operator works with local suppliers and hoteliers to ensure that we support the communities we visit, maximising the benefit to them and also our enjoyment of the region. We will stay in characterful, locally run hotels and the route notes will often give you hints and tips of local restaurants you can try, giving you a taste of the local cuisine while helping to support these establishments. Moreover, we encourage you to journey by train to minimise your carbon footprint.

Itinerary

[detailed itinerary...]

Countries visited: Italy

Day 1

Start Scopello.

Day 2

Free day to explore Scopello and the pristine Zingaro nature reserve, there are miles of coastal tracks and perfect coves lapped by sapphire waters.

Day 3

Cycle inland to reach Segesta with its stunningly preserved 2,500 year old Doric temple and breathtaking sea views. Then on to Signor Di Vito's lovely farmhouse hotel.

Day 4

Free day to visit Monte Cofano Nature Reserve, home to Grotta Mangiapane - an incredible cave containing a rural hamlet complete with chapel and cobbled street.

Day 5

Climb gently out of Busetto with vistas of the three Egadi Islands, then it's downhill virtually all day passing through a string of tranquil hamlets before reaching Nubia.

Day 6

Free day to cycle to Erice - its cobbled narrow streets seem to cling to the hillside and amazing balcony views sweep across to the Mediterranean and Trapani.

Day 7

Cycle inland before returning to the coast to take a wooden boat to Mozia - ruins of a strategic Phoenician settlement on San Pantaleo Island. It is then an easy cycle along the seafront to reach Marsala.

Day 8

Free day to visit Favignana, the largest of the Egadi Islands, a cyclist's paradise. Alternatively, relax in Marsala, with its historic centre and colourful market.

Day 9

End Marsala.

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