

Cycle the Backroads of Sicily
- Italy
- 6 nights
Bike through Sicily's Val di Noto, from the foothills of Monti Iblei to the coast, pausing at vineyards, Baroque towns and wild swim spots
What's Included?
Activities & Certified Guides
All itinerary activities with local, expert, English-speaking guides and a bike mechanicLodging
6 nights in hotelsMeals
All breakfasts, 2 lunches & 2 dinnersTransfers & Support Vehicle
Airport transfers and everything in between, including a support vehicle to carry your gear or hop into if your legs need a restGear
Fuji Absolute hybrid bikeSmall Like-minded Groups
Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 14 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people
What's it like?
Highlights
Bike along Sicily’s pristine coastline, swim in the Vendicari Nature Reserve, and unwind on the beaches of Portopalo di Capo Passero and Avola
Explore the Baroque, UNESCO-listed towns of Ragusa Ibla, Modica, and Noto, immersing yourself in Sicily’s rich cultural heritage
Descend alongside the stunning Cavagrande del Cassibile canyon, one of Europe’s deepest, for thrilling hairpin turns backed by panoramic views
Savor local Sicilian delights, from traditional meals at trattorias and chocolate indulgence in Modica, to wine tasting at Terre di Noto
Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Sicily!
Driving1.5hrsHotelTwin shareShow Day 1 detailHide detail
Arrive at Catania Airport, where you’ll be transferred to the hillside town of Palazzolo Acreide. In the afternoon, meet your guide and get fitted for your bike ahead of the adventure. If there’s time, take a stroll through the winding streets of this UNESCO-listed town and look up to spot the ‘teste di moro’, colorful Moor’s head ceramic vases perched on balconies. Come evening, you’ll head to a local trattoria and enjoy a delicious menu of fresh seasonal ingredients.
Day 2
Baroque towns and chocolate treats
Cycling4hrs · 32mi · 2215ft up · 3428ft downHotelTwin shareBreakfast and dinner includedShow Day 2 detailHide detail
Your first ride kicks off with a descent through the rolling hills, followed by a challenging but rewarding climb through the rugged and wild landscape of the Monti Iblei. Stop for lunch in Ragusa Ibla, a hilltop town known for its striking Baroque architecture, then continue on to Modica, another jewel of the Val di Noto region, famed for its ancient chocolate-making tradition. Here, you’ll tuck into a delicious chocolate tasting, prepared using the ancient Aztec method that has been passed down through generations. You'll be guided through the entire process, from bean to bar, inside the chocolate-making laboratory. Round off the day with a selection of Sicilian antipasti at a traditional Modican restaurant.
Day 3
Sicilian countryside and wine tasting
Cycling5hrs · 48mi · 1509ft up · 2559ft downHotelTwin shareBreakfast and lunch includedShow Day 3 detailHide detail
Leaving Modica, you’ll enjoy a panoramic descent through the Sicilian countryside. En route, you'll pass through Scicli, another beautiful Baroque town with its stunning architecture and charming streets - an ideal spot for a quick explore before continuing your journey. From Scicli, bike to Pozzallo, a lively coastal town where you can take a refreshing swim at the beach and enjoy a well-earned gelato. As you continue biking, you’ll pass the vast, flat expanses of the Longarini and Cuba marshes, a protected sanctuary for migratory birds traveling between Africa and Europe. After a scenic ride, you'll stop at Terre di Noto winery for a guided tour and tuck into a delicious lunch paired with some of Sicily’s best wines. Today’s ride concludes in Portopalo di Capo Passero, where you can watch the sunset from the rocky shore of the southernmost point of Sicily.
Day 4
Explore the Riserva Naturale di Vendicari
Cycling5hrs · 39mi · 2182ft up · 1969ft downHotelTwin shareBreakfast and dinner includedShow Day 4 detailHide detail
This morning, head north along the scenic coastline until you reach your first stop in the quaint fishing town of Marzamemi. From there, bike to the Vendicari Nature Reserve, an area of natural beauty, rich in diverse plant and animal life, and renowned for its birdwatching opportunities, including flamingos. A 45-minute hike takes you through the reserve, surrounded by unique coastal wetlands and ancient ruins. Cool off with a swim in the reserve’s crystal-clear waters before continuing on to Noto, the capital of Baroque Sicily. End the day with a tasty dinner at a traditional restaurant, featuring classic Sicilian dishes and local wine.
Day 5
Climb to Cavagrande del Cassibile
Cycling5hrs · 36mi · 2986ft up · 2986ft downHotelTwin shareBreakfast and lunch includedShow Day 5 detailHide detail
Today’s all about a challenging but rewarding day in the saddle. You'll begin by biking towards Noto Antica, an ancient town devastated by an earthquake in 1693. A steady 3-mile climb brings you to the breathtaking viewpoint of Cavagrande del Cassibile, one of Europe’s deepest canyons, with sweeping views across the valley below. Take a well-earned break and enjoy a scenic picnic surrounded by nature, overlooking the canyon. Then it’s time for an exhilarating descent, winding through a series of hairpin bends as you head back towards the coast. You'll return to Noto for the evening.
Day 6
Bike the coastline to Siracusa
Cycling4hrs · 31mi · 1066ft up · 1214ft downHotelTwin shareBreakfast includedShow Day 6 detailHide detail
A leisurely ride today follows the picturesque coastline all the way to Syracuse. Pedal past pristine beaches and hop off for a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean at Avola’s sandy shores. Continue along the coast to the rocky Plemmirio Peninsula, where you'll get a contrasting coastal view. On arrival in Syracuse, spend the afternoon exploring Ortigia, the island where the ancient city was founded. With its narrow streets, ancient ruins and welcoming squares, Ortigia is a fantastic place to wander and soak up the atmosphere.
Day 7
Arrivederci, Sicily!
Breakfast includedShow Day 7 detailHide detail
It's time to say goodbye to the sun-kissed shores of Sicily. After breakfast, you'll be transferred to Catania Airport to catch your flight home. If you're not ready to head straight to the airport, it's well worth extending your stay to explore more of this beautiful corner of Italy.
Getting There
- Nearest airport
- Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (CTA)
- Pick up
- Vincenzo Bellini Catania Airport
13:00 on Day 1 - Drop off
- Vincenzo Bellini Catania Airport
9:00 on Day 8
What is and isn't Included?
What's included
- Guided ride through the Sicilian countryside to Modica
- Guided ride to Portopalo di Capo Passero, the southernmost point of Sicily
- Guided tour of traditional winery
- Guided ride to Noto
- Guided hike & birdwatching in Vendicari Nature Reserve
- Guided ride to the lookout of Cavagrande del Cassibile
- Guided coastal ride to Siracusa
- Local, expert, English-speaking bike guides and a bike mechanic
- 6 nights in comfortable locally run hotels and B&Bs
- 7 breakfasts to fuel you up each day
- 1 lunch and wine tasting
- 1 picnic lunch at Cavagrande del Cassibile lookout
- 2 traditional Sicilian dinners
- Snacks while biking
- Modica chocolate tasting
- Group arrival transfer from Catania Airport on the morning of Day 1
- Departure transfer to Catania Airport at any time on Day 7
- Fuji Absolute hybrid bike
- To transfer your luggage, and for you to hop in if your legs need a rest
What's not included
Our trips do not include flights, trains, or other travel to the start point and back from the end point.
4 lunches and dinners have not been included, to allow you to eat at bistros in the small towns you pass by and sample some local restaurants in the locations you stay at. We recommend you budget about £10/€15 for lunch and £20/€25 for dinner to cover these.
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion but there is an expectation to tip for good service. Your guide will help with advice, however we suggest the below as a guideline:
- €30 for the main guide
- €10 for the support driver
Of course, you are free to tip more or less, and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality – a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
You know your own spending habits best, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional food and drinks, shopping, and laundry.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures, and you'll need to provide your policy details before departure. Your insurance should offer adequate cover for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment, and the specific activities involved in your adventure. We also recommend ensuring your policy includes cancellation and curtailment cover, in case you're unable to join your trip due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness.
Standard travel insurance may not cover all the activities included in your adventure, so it's essential to check the details carefully. There are adventure-specific providers that many travelers have used in the past, such as True Traveller (opens in new tab) (for those based in the UK or Europe), or Rise + Shield (opens in new tab), both of which offer cover for a wide range of adventurous activities.
Please make sure your chosen policy meets your individual needs and covers all aspects of your trip.
Visa requirements often change, and you are responsible for obtaining any required visas for this trip. Please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for up-to-date advice.
Where You'll Stay
Looking for a private room? See Optional Extras for details and pricing.
What You'll Eat
Expect to indulge in the rich flavors of Sicilian cuisine, with each region offering its own unique specialties shaped by its geography and culture. Start your day with a breakfast of local pastries and fresh fruit. For lunch, enjoy a picnic or visit…
Optional Extras
Pre/Post Trip Accommodation
- Additional night pre trip in Palazzolo Acreide (single)
- …
- Additional night pre trip in Palazzolo Acreide (twin)
- …
- Additional night post trip in Siracusa (single)
- …
- Additional night post trip in Siracusa (twin)
- …
Upgrades
- Optional Private Room Upgrade
- …
For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room can be booked for an extra charge, see Optional Extras for the price. Please request this at the time of booking (this is subject to availability).
Transfers
- Private departure transfer to Catania airport from Siracusa (1-3 pax)
- …
- Private arrival transfer from Catania Airport to Palazzolo Acreide (1-3 pax)
- …
To request any extras, message your host via your Much Better Adventures account once you have booked your trip.
All extras must be paid before your trip starts.
This Trip is Graded Level 3
Ratings & Reviews
This trip is brand new!
So new, in fact, that it's not got any reviews yet. But rest assured, it's been designed with the same care, quality and attention to detail as all of our highly rated adventures.
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Departure dates
Saturday 13th June 2026
to Friday 19th June 2026
Last minute - Host approval required
…
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Got a Group of 6 or More?
What to Pack

Know before you go! Some stuff we'll provide, other things you'll need to bring.
FAQs
How does a Much Better Adventures biking trip work?
It's no secret that we love biking and many of us at HQ think it's the best way to see a country, however, we realize that organizing your own trip can be a total hassle. On our biking trips, we’ve found a local guide who has put together a perfect route and will navigate for you all the way. We also send a van that transports your overnight luggage and provide high-quality bikes and delicious snacks to keep you going. Hassle eliminated!
All you have to do is show up, pedal and take in the amazing landscape with your fellow tourers. You will bike at your own pace, with regular stops to regroup so that no one gets left behind.
Have a read of our article on biking difficulty levels for further information on selecting the right level of bike adventure for you.
What type of bikes are supplied?
You'll be riding a Fuji Absolute hybrid bike. Your height is required to ensure the correct frame size is supplied.
The bikes are equipped with a water bottle cage and all come with standard flat pedals and male/standard saddles. If you would rather pack your own saddle and pedals (including SPDs), please do and these will be fitted for you.
Will we bike point to point?
Yes, you will bike point to point during the trip. Each day, you'll travel from one location to the next, biking through rural and coastal landscapes, from Palazzolo Acreide to Siracusa.
Can I upgrade to an e-bike on this trip?
E-bike upgrades are not available for this trip; you’ll be riding hybrid bikes as listed in the trip inclusions. Keeping everyone on the same bike type helps maintain a comfortable group pace, simplifies logistics, and ensures a more inclusive experience. We do, however, have a growing collection of e-bike adventures which you can explore.
What if things don't go as planned?
In the event of poor weather such as heavy rain, strong winds and/or storms, it is possible that conditions may become unsafe to complete the planned rides on this trip. Your guide will assess the conditions and weather forecasts and make a decision with your safety in mind. If it becomes necessary to make a change to the planned itinerary, an alternative route or activity will be offered.
What should I do about drinking water?
The support vehicle will have large containers of water that you can fill your water bottles with.
Do I need to bring my own bike helmet?
Yes, you need to bring your own bike helmet on this adventure. It should meet recognized safety standards, display a relevant certification mark, and be in good condition. It is mandatory for all riders to wear a helmet whenever cycling.
Please make sure your helmet is:
-
A purpose-built bike helmet that meets a recognized safety standard and displays a relevant certification mark, including (but not limited to):
- CE/EN 1078 (UK & Europe)
- CPSC or Snell B90/B95 (USA)
- AS/NZS 2063 (Australia & New Zealand)
-
In good condition:
- ideally no more than five years old
- not involved in a crash
- no visible cracks/dents, compressed foam, or damaged straps
-
A good fit:
- sits level (not tipped back)
- snug, secure and stable when fastened (doesn't rock or slide)
- retention system and straps work properly
If your helmet isn’t suitable on arrival:
- you may need to rent or buy a suitable helmet locally (availability varies by destination)
- if a suitable helmet can't be sourced, you may be unable to join some or all cycling activities on safety grounds, in line with your booking conditions
Need help choosing or fitting a helmet?
For advice see British Cycling’s guidance.
Bike Safety Please see our cycling safety guidance for further information.
Can I book on my own?
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
Who is running the trip?
Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.
What is the official travel advice?
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers review the practical information available on the UK Government’s FCDO website, where you can find up-to-date advice by searching for your destination(s).
If you are based in the United States, you can also check the latest travel advisories from the U.S. Department of State.
For customers joining from other international locations, we recommend checking the official travel advice issued by your country of residence, as guidance may vary.
What vaccinations do I need?
We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.
How are the trips priced?
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates daily, so prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
Why are your adventures only for adults?
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. You must be over 18 to join one of our trips.
Who else will be on my trip?
You're always in good company on one of our adventures.
Our trips typically consist of a mix of solo travelers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.
Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves, and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.
It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.
Don't just take our word for it:
- 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
- 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
- 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends
See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.
What's the weather like?
Sicily offers excellent weather for biking, particularly in spring, late summer, and early fall, when temperatures are warm and pleasant. The Mediterranean climate generally provides a low chance of rain, but conditions can be changeable, with occasional storms. Daytime temperatures typically range from 66°F to 83°F, offering comfortable riding conditions. However, evenings can be cooler, with temperatures dropping to 50°F to 66°F. It’s a good idea to pack a light jacket or sweater for the cooler nights.
Weather, particularly high temperatures, can affect the difficulty level of this trip. The heat can make climbing and long-distance biking more challenging. For departures in June and early September, be prepared for sun exposure and temperatures reaching up to 86°F.
What's the carbon footprint for this trip?
We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre program, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 220kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000 miles/1609km would be approximately 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person, if there were two of you in it).
- A return economy class flight between London and New York would be approximately 1619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approximately 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
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