Person cycling on a road with a scenic green valley in the background, in Sicily
Brand New!

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 mechanic
  • Lodging

    6 nights in hotels
  • Meals

    All breakfasts, 2 lunches & 2 dinners
  • Transfers & Support Vehicle

    Airport transfers and everything in between, including a support vehicle to carry your gear or hop into if your legs need a rest
  • Gear

    Fuji Absolute hybrid bike
  • Small Like-minded Groups

    Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 14 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people
From
excluding flights

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

  1. Day 1

    Welcome to Sicily!

    Driving
    1.5hrs
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Show Day 1 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

    Cycling
    4hrs · 32mi · 2215ft up · 3428ft down
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast and dinner included
    Show Day 2 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

    Cycling
    5hrs · 48mi · 1509ft up · 2559ft down
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast and lunch included
    Show Day 3 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

    Cycling
    5hrs · 39mi · 2182ft up · 1969ft down
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast and dinner included
    Show Day 4 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.

  2. Day 5

    Climb to Cavagrande del Cassibile

    Cycling
    5hrs · 36mi · 2986ft up · 2986ft down
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast and lunch included
    Show Day 5 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

    Cycling
    4hrs · 31mi · 1066ft up · 1214ft down
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast included
    Show Day 6 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.

  3. Day 7

    Arrivederci, Sicily!

    Breakfast included
    Show Day 7 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

Detailed Logistics

Transfers

On Day 1, a group transfer will be provided from Catania Airport to Palazzolo Acreide. The transfer is typically scheduled for the early afternoon but will depend on the group's arrival times. Once the majority of the group has arrived, you'll depart together to your hotel in Palazzolo Acreide.

For those arriving early or if your flight does not align with the scheduled transfer, you can reach Palazzolo Acreide by bus from the airport (company name: AST). The bus departs at 12:15 PM or 2:15 PM, with a travel time of approximately 2 hours. Tickets can be purchased on board or from the ATS ticket counter near arrivals at the airport (€9 to €12 EUR per person). Alternatively, you can book a private transfer through the host (see costs in optional extras) or independently.

On Day 7, there will be a group transfer back to Catania Airport departing at around 8:00 AM. We recommend booking a flight departing no earlier than 11:30 AM.

Travel options

There are regular direct flights to Catania Airport from airports across the UK and Europe. Alternatively, you may also consider indirect flights via Milan or Rome.

For those flying from North America, there are no direct flights to Catania. However, it’s easy to reach via one-stop connections through cities like Rome, Milan, Frankfurt, Munich, or Paris.

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

Where You'll Stay

Looking for a private room? See Optional Extras for details and pricing.

  • Terrace at RTA Palazzo Judica, Palazzolo Acreide, Sicily

    Palazzolo Acreide

    Stay

    Palazzolo Acreide

    You’ll spend the first night of the trip in comfortable, centrally located accommodations in Palazzolo Acreide, typically at the RTA Palazzo Judica (or similar). The hotel provides twin-share ensuite rooms with air conditioning and WiFi, offering a convenient base to start your biking adventure.

  • B&B Tetti di Siciliando, Modica, Sicily

    Modica

    Stay

    Modica

    In Modica, you'll stay at the B&B Tetti di Siciliando, a cozy and welcoming bed and breakfast. The well-appointed twin-share ensuite rooms feature Sicilian décor, with free WiFi throughout the property. After a day of biking, unwind on the terrace to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

  • Lobby & beach view from Hotel Vittorio, Portopalo di Capo Passero, Siciliy

    Portopalo di Capo Passero

    Stay

    Portopalo di Capo Passero

    Your stay in Portopalo di Capo Passero will be at Hotel Vittorio, well-positioned on the seafront. The twin-share rooms are spacious and equipped with air conditioning, and private bathrooms. This family-run hotel offers a comfortable setting with quick access to the beach.

  • room at B&B Giardino Barocco, Noto, Sicily

    Noto

    Stay

    Noto

    In Noto, you’ll stay at the B&B Giardino Barocco, a beautifully restored property that combines historic charm with modern comfort. You’ll be accommodated in twin-share en suite rooms, furnished with traditional touches. Enjoy the lovely garden and wander into Noto to access the town’s baroque architecture and restaurants.

  • room at Hotel Gran Bretagna , Siracusa, Sicily

    ""

    Stay

    ""

    Your final night is spent at Hotel Gran Bretagna, located in the Ortigia district of Siracusa. This elegant hotel combines Sicilian style touches with modern amenities. The air-conditioned, en suite rooms will be allocated on a twin-share basis.

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…

Food and Dietary info

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 a local bistro, savoring regional dishes like caponata, a Sicilian eggplant dish, or other Mediterranean delights. Don’t forget to try a sweet cannoli for a mid-ride sugar hit! Dinner offers a variety of traditional Sicilian dishes such as handmade pasta, roasted meats, and fresh seafood. On the coast, feast on seafood delicacies like swordfish, anchovies, and pasta with sea urchin. Accompany your meal with a glass of fine Sicilian wine, like a crisp white from Lipari or a bold red from Etna Nord. Some meals are left free to taste a wider variety of local dishes or restaurants according to your budget and taste.

Vegetarians, vegans, and other dietary requirements and intolerances can be catered for – please just request this on your passenger info form. For higher levels of allergies, Italian law states that only specially equipped kitchens can provide food with absolutely no cross-contamination; local restaurants usually don't have these kinds of facilities.

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.

Trip level explained

Level 3

Moderate

You should feel comfortable biking 37 miles or more on consecutive days. The route takes you through a stunning region that is hilly and surrounded by the sea, offering a mix of rolling terrain, valleys, and hilltop towns. Expect mostly quiet, paved, and undulating roads, with occasional short stretches on busier roads as you approach towns.

Day 5 features a more challenging ascent and descent to the viewpoint of Cavagrande del Cassibile, which includes a steep 3-mile climb and thrilling hairpin turns on the descent. This section will test your climbing and descending skills, but the spectacular views make it worthwhile. If needed, there’s always the option to hop in the support vehicle. The following day offers a flatter ride along the coastline, providing a more leisurely pace to end the trip.

Safety: Check out our Cycling safety guidance and how to choose the right level of cycling trip article for further guidance.

Style of Riding: Backroads This trip is backroad biking, following quiet mostly smooth roads, may have occasional bumps, such as potholes, cracks, or rough patches – you'll be riding on a hybrid bike.

What if i need to skip an activity?

A support vehicle accompanies the group to transport luggage daily and assist with bike-related issues. If needed, arrangements can be made for a group member to hop in if you’re struggling with the terrain or become unwell. However, it should not be used simply to skip a day's ride.

What will I need to carry?

All your accommodation is pre-booked, and your luggage will be transferred from one point to the next. As everything will be transported by the support vehicle, which is accessible throughout the day, you can bike completely unburdened. We suggest bringing a small fanny pack or bag that can be attached to your handlebars to carry essential items like money, phone, sunscreen, and a snack. The van also carries tools and spare bike parts if needed.

Hot climate: factors to consider

This trip operates in areas where daytime temperatures can reach extreme levels, with limited shade and, at times, high humidity adding to the challenge. These conditions can affect physical performance and increase the risk of dehydration or heat-related illness. Your guide will adjust the pace and monitor the group closely, but staying well hydrated, wearing suitable clothing, and using sun protection is essential.

Before traveling, consider your ability to remain active in high temperatures and consult a medical professional if you have any concerns, especially if you have cardiovascular or heat-sensitive conditions. Arriving a day or two before the trip may help you adjust gradually to the heat.

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.

4.8
Our average trip score5000+ 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.

4.8
Our average trip score5000+ reviews
Showing all 0 reviews

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Departure dates

  • Saturday 13th June 2026

    to Friday 19th June 2026

    Last minute - Host approval required

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What to Pack

Backpack with hiking gear laid out

Know before you go! Some stuff we'll provide, other things you'll need to bring.

Kit List

What do I need to bring?

BIKE GEAR

  • Helmet (required)
  • Biking shoes (bring your own pedals if using cleats)
  • Saddle, if you would rather use your own
  • Gel saddle cover (optional if preferred)
  • Fanny pack or small handlebar bag for riding (optional)
  • Reusable water bottle: it is recommended that you bring biking water bottles that fit into standard bottle cages on bikes (17oz, 20oz or 25oz).

CLOTHES

  • Padded biking shorts
  • Sports top or biking jersey
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Biking gloves
  • Buff or neck scarf
  • T-shirts
  • Underwear and socks
  • Sleepwear
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunhat
  • Sandals
  • Fleece jacket or similar for the evenings
  • Pants/leggings for the evenings
  • Sneakers/sandals
  • Swimwear

OTHER

  • Duffel bag, backpack or soft suitcase (max. 80L)
  • Universal travel plug adapter
  • Power bank or solar charger
  • Passports (and visas)
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Ear plugs
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunscreen
  • Personal first-aid kit
  • Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Alcohol hand-gel
  • Biodegradable wet-wipes
  • Energy bars and snacks

FAQs

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The support vehicle will have large containers of water that you can fill your water bottles with.

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.

Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.

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.

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.

We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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