From Taormina to Cefalù...and back!

Sicily Circle Tour: From the Tyrrhenian Sea to the Ionian Sea, passing through some of Sicily's most significant beauties.

Creating an authentic experience, combining well-designed tours with clever logistics, is akin to achieving the holy grail of biking trips. Often, compromises are made, and beautiful sights are left unexplored to ensure logistical feasibility. However, our approach is different. We don't consider a trip design complete until it's so meticulously planned that we would embark on the journey ourselves the very next day.

The Sicily's Circle tour is a testament to this meticulous approach. Comprising seven stages, it not only encompasses historically rich towns like Taormina but also ventures into Sicily's most breathtaking natural parks, linking two of the three surrounding seas: the Ionian Sea and the Tyrrhenian Sea. The ride introduces exciting challenges, notably the journey across Etna National Park, providing a unique cycling experience atop Europe's tallest active volcano.

Venturing into the unexpected, Sicily reveals its lush side while crossing Madonie National Park, characterized by diverse biodiversity and captivating medieval villages. Similarly, exploring Nebrodi National Park unveils vast forests, diverse wildlife, and panoramic vistas extending to the sea.

Our emphasis on clever logistics ensures flexibility for travelers. Whether you land in Palermo or Catania, you can seamlessly embark on this self-guided trip. The distances, views, hotels, and towns visited will remain consistent, offering a well-rounded and hassle-free biking adventure.

ITINERARY

Challenge
9731m
551.3 km
7 rides
1 ARRIVAL DAY

Arrival at Catania (or Palermo) airport and transfer to Taormina (or Cefalù). Accommodation and bike fitting at four-star hotel.

2 GODFATHER'S LOOP

62 km | 1,332m | 1,332m | 3,30h

It’s a mix of coastline and hills inland on this first cycling day in Sicily: our week begins with a beautiful stage with medium distance climbs, the longest being 12 km long. From Letojanni, we'll climb up the Sanctuary of the Madonna dell’Aiuto at 1000m ASL through the Agrò Valley, nearly the top of Mount Kalfa. From there, the stage explores - across narrow and quiet countryside roads - a very spectacular and lush area. Is there a place where we can stop to grab a cappuccino? Of course there is, and it’s the famous and lovely Bar Vitelli in Savoca, straight from Francis Ford Coppola’s ‘The Godfather’ movie. From there, a thrilling and winding descent will take us again to the coastline, on the way back to the hotel.


Accommodation: 4-star hotel

Meals: Breakfast | 

3 FROM TAORMINA TO RANDAZZO (QUOTA MILLE)

82.3 km | 2,327m | 1,440m | 4,30h

Today's stage will be unforgettable... we'll take on Europe's tallest active volcano! After an initial stretch along the coast, we'll begin our long ascent towards the summit on the north side of Mount Etna. Starting from Fiumefreddo di Sicilia, we'll climb along the switchbacks of Presa and Vena. In recent years, this climb has been featured in both the Giro d'Italia and the Giro di Sicilia.

Once we reach Fornazzo, after a short break, we'll face the official ascent of Etna: the first switchbacks are quite challenging, but as we cover more kilometers, the climb becomes easier, and the surroundings will resemble a lunar landscape.

Upon reaching the junction for Piano Provenzana, perhaps the toughest challenge of the day begins: the road starts to ascend with gradients almost always above 10%, winding its way amid the cooled basalt of the lava flow, leading over three kilometers to the 1,805-meter plateau of Piano Provenzana, the most frequented ski resort in the Etna area.

After a well-deserved rest, a long descent through the Ragabo pine forest begins, and as we reach the outskirts of Linguaglossa, we'll take the road to "Quota Mille," where amidst continuous ups and downs, we'll arrive at our hotel for a well-deserved beer.


Accommodation: 4-star hotel

Meals: Breakfast | Dinner

4 FROM RANDAZZO (QUOTA MILLE) TO PETRALIA SOPRANA

124.7 km | 2,192m | 1,963m | 6,30h

Today, you'll feel like you're not in Sicily. The stage ahead, in fact, will be a continuous up and down between 600 and 1200 meters in elevation, covering the 124 kilometers separating Randazzo from Petralia Soprana, ensuring an enjoyable ride.

Today's route is the only one connecting the three natural parks and will alternate between charming small villages and endless meadows. Shortly after leaving Randazzo, we'll begin the first climb towards Cesarò, the gateway to the Nebrodi Park. The climb boasts an average slope of 4%, which won't pose an immediate challenge.

The continuous up and down will continue for most of the day, leading us through the towns of Troina, Cerami, Nicosia, and Sperlinga. After Sperlinga, a long but manageable ascent towards the Madonie Park begins.

Once we reach the magnificent village of Gangi, only 10 kilometers will remain to our hotel in the small town of Petralia Soprana, a picturesque hillside town characterized by winding medieval streets adorned with stone houses and flower-filled balconies, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Rich in history, it showcases a cultural heritage through its ancient churches, such as the imposing Mother Church of Santa Maria and the Norman Tower.


Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Meals: Breakfast 

5 FROM PETRALIA SOPRANA TO CEFALU'

67.8 km | 1,191m | 2,317m | 3h

After yesterday's effort, today will feel like a walk in the park. Only 67 kilometers separate us from Cefalù. The first part of the stage will take place within the Madonie Park. We'll ascend to 1600 meters at Piano Battaglia, where the woodland scenery will undoubtedly steal the show. The nature here is truly spectacular!

Following Piano Battaglia, we'll start a long descent towards Isnello. Even here, the landscape won't change much; trees and rocks will accompany us for many kilometers.

From Isnello to Gratteri, it will be an ascent, five kilometers at an average gradient of 5%. After the summit, the landscape transforms, leaving forests and mountains behind, revealing the coastline. An exhilarating and long descent will lead us all the way to Cefalù.

Cefalù is a picturesque coastal town. Its narrow cobblestone streets lead to charming squares where local life thrives amidst quaint cafés and artisanal shops. The golden sandy beach offers a serene escape, framed by the imposing Rocca di Cefalù, a rocky promontory overlooking the azure Mediterranean Sea.


Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Meals: Breakfast | 

6 FROM CEFALU' TO CAPO D'ORLANDO

79 km | 465m | 464m | 3h

Today will be the easiest stage of the tour, a splendid ride along the rugged coast from Cefalù to Capo d'Orlando. The day on the bike will pass swiftly, crossing small seaside villages like Finale, Castel di Tusa, Santo Stefano di Camastra (renowned for its ceramics), and Sant'Agata di Militello. Similar to Cefalù, here too, you'll have the chance to enjoy the Tyrrhenian coast's sea.


Accommodation: 4-star hotel

Meals: Breakfast | Dinner

7 FROM CAPO D'ORLANDO TO CASTIGLIONE DI SICILIA

77.2 km | 1,501m | 932m | 4h

Today's stage takes us towards the mountains of the Nebrodi Park. It will be an ascent from kilometer zero, and although not particularly challenging, it will be a long climb.

We start with the sea always in the background, but as soon as we reach the town of "Naso," the hills first and then the mountains will dominate the landscape.

Wooded panoramas will alternate with a few small villages like Castell'Umberto or Ucria, both towns we recommend for a stop, not only for the beauty of the villages but also for the friendliness and warmth of their inhabitants.

The long climb is now surrounded by vast meadows, and pay attention along the way; you might make an intriguing sighting: the black pig of the Nebrodi, the absolute protagonist of the park. The end of the ascent is marked by arriving in the town of Floresta, the highest municipality in Sicily. 

After passing Floresta, we'll begin a long descent towards Randazzo. Subsequently, we'll head towards the Etna vineyards road until we reach Verzella, a small hamlet of Castiglione di Sicilia. Here, our hotel is nestled within one of Sicily's renowned wineries, where a Wine Tasting experience is also planned.


Accommodation: 4-star hotel

Meals: Breakfast | Dinner | Wine tasting

8 FROM CASTIGLIONE DI SICILIA TO TAORMINA

58.3 km | 723m | 1,097m | 3h

The shortest stage of the Sicily Circle is face two different parts: the first will take us through the vineyards of Mount Etna, where volcanic soil and viticulture have come together to create uniquely flavored wines.

The second part, will lead us towards Taormina, passing through the Alcantara's Valley. Nestled on the stunning cliffs overlooking the Ionian Sea, Taormina is a Sicilian gem renowned for its breathtaking views and rich history.

Left the hotel, our ride starts with a short uphill towards one of the most beautiful villages in the area, Castiglione di Sicilia, overlooking all the vineyards in the valley from above. The road continues with a gentle ascent all the way to Passopisciaro, a small village that lends its name to the famous production of Etna wines. 

From here, the long descent towards the coast begins. We'll pass through small rural villages such as Moio Alcantara and Francavilla di Sicilia before reaching renowned seaside resorts like Giardini Naxos and Isola Bella in Taormina.


Accommodation: 4-star hotel

Meals: Breakfast 

9 FAREWELL AND DEPARTURE DAY

Transfer to Catania or Palermo airport and end of services.


Arrival details

  • Airport City: Catania airport
  • Pick-up location: Taormina
  • Pick-up time: 14:00

Departure details

  • Airport City: Catania airport
  • Drop-off location: Taormina
  • Drop-off time: 12:00
The Classic climbs series
Your Journey on a map

TOUR ROUTE

Start: Taormina

End: Taormina

Services

Accommodation

6 nights four-star; 2 nights three-star

All breakfasts; 2 dinners.

9/8 days/nights

Hotel Quota Mille
Your stay, part of the tale

Handpicked hotels

Enjoy our personally selected range of authentic Sicilian accommodation. From staying in architecturally restored masserie with a ‘window’ overlooking ancient sites, beautiful seaside villas with views over turquoise seas, historic locanda’s in the quiet countryside where family run farms are still producing wine and olive oil, this diverse experience brings together the beauty of ancient, historic Sicily with the rustic, modern and sometimes edgy Sicily.

Food

All breakfasts; 2 dinners. - Picnic lunch on all stages

Immerse yourself in the region's culture

Eat like locals

Each region offers a unique palette of flavors steeped in Sicilian tradition.

Cefalù, perched on Sicily's northern coast, presents a bounty of seafood delights like pasta con le sarde (pasta with sardines) and fresh catches grilled to perfection. Taormina, known for its picturesque setting, offers a blend of Sicilian and Mediterranean cuisines—dishes include pasta alla norma and involtini di pesce spada (swordfish rolls). In the Madonie mountains, hearty fare like robust soups, pecorino cheese, and succulent porchetta (roast pork) take the spotlight. Moving to Nebrodi, rustic specialties prevail, such as capretto alla ghiotta (stewed goat) and black truffle-infused delicacies, showcasing the region's culinary richness and authenticity.

Our best picks for this tour

As we have one of the largest and best bike fleets in Italy, we are proud to give our guests the freedom to choose the bike that suits them best.

Pinarello F5 - 105 di2

Ride in Italy on an exclusive Italian bike
Scott Addict RC40

Scott Addict RC40

Light, fast, and ready to turn heads.

Scott Addict 30

Designed from the ground up with those longer days in mind.
Things You Won't Miss
  • In the heart of the Nebrodi Mountains

  • The coastline between Cefalù and Capo d'Orlando

  • Climbing the volcano

Ride Highlights:
The Nebrodi Park

The Nebrodi Park, nestled in northeastern Sicily, stands as the largest natural reserve on the island, boasting breathtaking landscapes, lush forests, and diverse ecosystems. Spanning over 85,000 hectares, it encompasses a stunning array of flora and fauna, including rare species like the Sicilian fir and the Nebrodian black pig. The park offers an outdoor haven for nature enthusiasts with hiking trails, picturesque lakes, and charming villages, preserving Sicily's rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. With its scenic beauty and ecological significance, the Nebrodi Park stands as a captivating destination for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

“The lovliest region of Italy: a stunning orgy of colors, scents, and lights…a great delight”

Sigmund Freud
Tour highlights

Tour price

And inclusions

THIS TOUR IS AVAILABLE AS A GUIDED GROUP TOUR ON SELECTED DATES. it's also available as PRIVATE, SELF-GUIDED AND SUPPORTED ON ANY DATE DURING THE CYCLING SEASON.

Guided group tour

Guided group tour

€ 2599

Departure: 25 May 2024


Inclusions & details

Accommodation
6 nights at a four-star; 2 nights at a three-star
Meals
All breakfasts; 2 dinners.
Support level
Guiding; van assistance; detailed briefing; luggage transfer; mobile workshop; group transfers from Catania airport airport; bars, gels and electrolytes available on purchase; 10% discount on bike rentals.
Not included
Flight tickets; extras in hotel, etc. Drinks during the dinner; city tax (if any); travel insurance; individual arrival and departure transfer; bike rental.
On request
Individual transfer from/to Catania airport(75,00 euro p.p. - min 2 pax); supplement for single accommodation € 320 p.p.; bike rental.
Self guided tour

Self guided tour

From € 1369

Anytime May to Sept


Inclusions & details

Accommodation
6 nights at a four-star; 2 nights at a three-star
Meals
All breakfasts; 2 dinners.
Support level
Detailed briefing and interactive Road-Book; telephone assistance during your stay; 10% discount on bike rentals.
Not included
Flight tickets; extras in hotel, etc. Drinks during the dinner; city tax (if any); travel insurance; individual arrival and departure transfer; bike rental.
On request
Individual transfer from/to Catania airport(75,00 euro p.p. - min 2 pax); supplement for single accommodation € 320 p.p.; bike rental. Luggage transfer (EUR 450 p.p minimum 2 pax)
Supported tour

Supported tour

From € 2199

Anytime May to Sept


Inclusions & details

Accommodation
6 nights at a four-star; 2 nights at a three-star
Meals
All breakfasts; 2 dinners.
Support level
Van assistance; detailed briefing luggage transfer; mobile workshop; group transfers from Catania airport airport; bars, gels and electrolytes available on purchase; 10% discount on bike rentals.
Not included
Flight tickets; extras in hotel, etc. Drinks during the dinner; city tax (if any); travel insurance; individual arrival and departure transfer; bike rental.
On request
Individual transfer from/to Catania airport (75,00 euro p.p. - min 2 pax); supplement for single accommodation € 320 p.p.; bike rental.
Useful Information

Tips & Resources

Travel arrangements

The best airport to land is Catania (CTA).

For those participating in a guided or in a supported tour, a group transfer is scheduled to depart from Catania airport at 2 p.m. Similarly, for the return journey, a group transfer is arranged to depart from Taormina at 10 a.m.

For alternative requirements, we can assist in arranging private transfers (that will be quoted separately) or suggest the most cost-effective transport solution.

Travelers on self-guided trips have to independently reach Taormina. The Catania airport and Taormina are well-connected by both railway and bus services. 

However, if you prefer a most comfortable and faster solution, we can assist in arranging a transfer that suits your needs best (the transfer will be quoted separately).

Please contact us for more information.

Food & Drinks during stages

For those participating in a guided or in a supported tour, during the rides, we plan at least one longer food stop in the middle of the stage plus one or more coffee stops. In the assistance van we have bars, gels and water.

Those riding for the self-guided tour can rely on our road book and maps that show the suggested bars or restaurants.

Necessary Gear

Our guests will get a pre tour info kit that gives useful suggestions on how to enjoy our trips in full. Here is a quick selection that might be useful at this stage.

  • We suggest renting a bike with us. But feel free to bring your own bike. Just consider bringing along a selection of model specific spare parts (ie. derailleur hangers). 

  • The hotels have in some occasion a bike room, bikes are anyway always stored safely. We have a mobile workshop with tools and spare parts.

  • Bring along a wide selection of clothes, including some full arm jackets, raincoat, leg and arm warmers: there are a lot of mountains where the weather is never completely predictable.

Useful Information
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We have (so far) four offices accross Italy. Contact us via email, call us or drop by.

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Letojanni

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Letojanni, Italy
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