The Land Where Lemon Blossoms Grow
Though the capital of Italy may be described as romantic, it is really the island of Sicily that merits the title just as much, or more. Through its tenacious light, we observe a land of contrasts, conflicts and conquests, dramatic landscapes and a rich archaeological heritage. In a historical tug of war between external domination and sovereignty, various powers left their palpable influence on their territory. That’s why Sicily is not only a naturalistic wonder, but also a crossroads of cultures and civilization: its traditions are visible through its all-encompassing art and artisanry, and the cosmopolitan feel of its cities.
Destination
| Country | Italy | |
| Region | Sicily |
Price OptionsPer Guest
| 6 days Journey | Duo | $3,280 |
|---|---|---|
| If Booking Solo | + $350 | |
| 9 days Journey | Duo | $6,480 |
| If Booking Solo | + $550 |
Journey Highlights
- Max Group Size 8
- Airport Locations Pick Up at Catania or Palermo Airport
Drop-Off at Catania Airport - On-Ground Transport Private Vehicle & Ride Assist Bikes
- Travel Style Cultural Immersion, Food & Wine
What's Included*
| 6 days | 9 days |
* Journey inclusions might change based on availability. However, our promise to deliver uniquely curated local experiences will dictate any potential changes.
Journey Itinerary
Leisurely Retreats, “Zero-Kilometer” Lifestyle
Pack your bags for leisurely accommodations in Sicily, and you might never want to leave. When in Catania, visit the rural Monaci delle Terre Nere, a converted Medieval monastery sited at the foot of Mount Etna. Expect a working farm with organic, locally-sourced home-cooking, “zero-kilometer” cocktails and elegant, comfortable rooms on the “black lands” of Zafferana Etnea. In Syracuse, explore Noto, a Baroque jewel of a city where every crevice is worth a visit. When you are ready to retreat, take your leisure at one of the Seven Rooms Villadorata, a hotel in a palace that formerly belonged to an aristocratic family. Whether in Catania or in Syracuse, you may discover the desire to retreat to a Sicilian lifestyle, where the pace of life is slow and sensuous.
Vineyard Visits, Sights to Discover
No visit to Sicily is complete without trying some of its renowned wines, and the splendid landscapes surrounding the Tenuta Gorghi Tondi and Planeta Sciaranuova offer ideal settings for elaborate vineyard visits and tastings. To the North-West, at Mazara del Vallo, Gorghi Tondi is located within a World Wildlife Fund-protected natural reserve, where state-of-the-art tools are combined with artisanal knowledge to produce reds, whites and sparkling wines. On the other side of the island, toward Etna, Planeta’s Sciaranuova location was built on a former lava flow, providing dramatic sights and theatrical experiences. Both wineries respect their surroundings, their structures carefully integrated into their environments.
Artisanal Traditions: Modica’s Gianpaolo Ruta of Antica Dolceria Bonaiuto
Nobody knows confectionary like Gianpaolo Ruta, the sixth-generation manager of the Antica Dolceria Bonaiuto in Modica, the oldest chocolate factory in Modica. Ask Gianpaolo about the history of chocolate in Sicily, the Baroque architectural style that makes up Val di Noto, or the origin of the phrase regnum in regno, and you may find yourself engrossed in conversation for hours. As comfortable talking about history and architecture as he is about his hometown’s famous biscuit, jazz music and celebrated literature, Gianpaolo reads Modica like a text, acutely bringing out the minutest details that even the most prepared tourist might miss.