Day 1: Catania — Enna
The first stage of the guided bike tour takes you from the coastal town of Catania into the heart of Sicily, via Valguarnera Caropepe to the historic town of Enna. The route offers varied landscapes, from coastal plains to hilly inland, and challenges you with some climbs.
The starting point is Catania, at the foot of the imposing Mount Etna. The first few kilometers take you through fertile fields and olive groves, accompanied by the view of the volcano. You cycle west and the route begins to climb slightly as you approach the interior.
After about 70 km you reach Valguarnera Caropepe, a charming village on a hill. Here you can take a longer break and enjoy the typical Sicilian atmosphere. The winding streets and historic buildings provide a picturesque backdrop. The surrounding area is dominated by wide fields and the characteristic, gently rolling hills of Sicily.
The final stretch of the route takes you further towards Enna, known as “the balcony of Sicily” as the town sits at over 900 metres above sea level. The climb is more challenging here, but the effort is rewarded by stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The final kilometres are particularly delightful as you approach high-altitude Enna, with its medieval fortress and breathtaking panoramas.
The longer and more challenging Track 2 takes an extended route via Aidone and cycles through the hilly and wooded Rossomanno-Grottascura-Bellia Nature Reserve, circling the summit of Monte Rossomanno.
Arriving in Enna is a highlight of the day: you are rewarded with impressive views over Sicily, stretching as far as Mount Etna on a clear day. Enna itself, with its historic sights including the Castello di Lombardia, makes for a relaxing end to this stage.
Day 2: Enna — Cefalù
The second stage takes you from Enna to the picturesque coastal town of Cefalù, passing through some of Sicily's most beautiful hilltop villages and rural areas. The route is challenging, but rewards you with breathtaking views and charming, historic places.
The first section from Enna takes you over gentle climbs and descents towards Cacchiamo, a small, quiet village surrounded by wheat fields and olive groves. From here the route takes you through rural Sicily, passing Bordonaro Soprano, a remote area with few settlements. Here you can feel the isolation and tranquility of the island.
You then reach Gangi, a historic village that is considered one of the most beautiful in Italy! It sits spectacularly on a hill, and the narrow streets and stone houses give Gangi a medieval charm. It is worth taking a short break here to enjoy the view over the Madonie Mountains.
After Gangi, the route continues through the Madonie Mountains to Geraci Siculo, another pretty mountain village. With its narrow streets and well-preserved castle, Geraci Siculo is a paradise for lovers of old Sicilian traditions.
From here, you continue to Castelbuono, a lively town on the edge of the Madonie Natural Park. Castelbuono is famous for its castle, delicious Sicilian sweets and friendly atmosphere.
After Castelbuono, there is a long and scenic descent through dense forests and vineyards down to the coast. Just before the end, you reach the village of Sant'Ambrogio, which overlooks the Tyrrhenian Sea. The sea comes closer and the air becomes noticeably fresher as you approach the coast.
Track 2 turns west in Castelbuona, takes another small hill over Isnello and crosses the valley between the mountain peaks of Pizzo Sant'Angelo and Pizzo Giurafelle.
The last few kilometers take you along the coast towards Cefalù, one of the most picturesque towns in Sicily. The medieval old town with its imposing cathedral and the picturesque beach promenade awaits you. After the demanding stage, a dip in the crystal clear water or a relaxed stroll through the narrow streets of Cefalù is the perfect end.
Day 3: Cefalù — Capo d'Orlando
Today the flat route from Cefalù to Capo d'Orlando runs exclusively along the picturesque northern coast of Sicily and offers spectacular views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The route leads through charming coastal villages, along idyllic bays and offers relatively flat, pleasant terrain, ideal for a relaxed, enjoyable ride.
You and your team first drive along the winding coastal road with a wonderful sea view and a slight climb every now and then to the small coastal village of Finale, which is right on the road. Here you have a beautiful view of the sea and the mountains in the background.and rise. Continue towards Castel di Tusa, a quiet place with a picturesque bay, perfect for a short break or even a refreshing swim. The coast here is rocky and the water is crystal clear.
From Castel di Tusa, Track 2 heads towards Reitano, a small village a little further inland, surrounded by green hills and olive groves.
The route then continues for both tracks to Santo Stefano di Camastra, known as the centre of Sicilian ceramics production. Here you can browse the colourful ceramics shops or simply admire the pretty, artistically designed buildings.
The route continues along the coast to Marina di Caronia, a small fishing village with quiet beaches and a relaxing atmosphere. From here you cycle on to Sant'Agata di Militello, a slightly larger seaside town with a lovely promenade and numerous cafes and restaurants. It's worth taking another break here to enjoy the view of the sea and the Aeolian Islands offshore.
Arrival in Capo d'Orlando:
After Sant'Agata, the last leg of the route takes you further along the coast towards Capo d'Orlando. This region is known for its beaches and turquoise waters. Capo d'Orlando itself is a lively resort with a long seafront promenade and a picturesque harbor. The town is a perfect place to end the stage, perhaps with a sunset over the sea or a visit to one of the many restaurants serving fresh fish and seafood.
Day 4: Capo d'Orlando — Castelmola
Today, the route of Track 1 combines the coastal regions with mountainous sections and offers a varied and challenging route.
You start along the coastal road and head south, past the last beaches and the busy promenade. After about 20 kilometers you reach Raccuja, a small, traditional Sicilian village. The route takes you through rolling hills and olive groves. Raccuja is located on a hill and offers a beautiful view of the surrounding countryside. Here you can take a short break and enjoy the quiet atmosphere.
Continue to Roccella Valdemone, another charming mountain village that blends picturesquely into the landscape. The route leads through hilly terrain with wonderful views of the green hinterland and the surrounding area. In Roccella Valdemone you can admire the traditional architecture and take in the local culture.
From Roccella Valdemone you head towards Moio Alcantara, which lies at the foot of the Alcantara Valley. The ride takes you through a scenic stretch characterized by the typical Sicilian landscapes. Moio Alcantara is a quiet village that makes an ideal stopover.
After Moio Alcantara, the route continues to Francavilla di Sicilia, another charming place in the Alcantara Valley. The village is known for its historic old town and offers beautiful views of the Alcantara River and the surrounding countryside. Here you can enjoy the old architecture and the relaxed atmosphere.
Track 2 is particularly long today, but relatively flat, stays true to the sea and cycles along the coast all day and circles the northeastern tip of the island. After about 40 kilometers, you reach Torre Faro in the far north, a picturesque place at the northern end of Messina. The ride there takes you through a mixture of coastal views and rural surroundings. Torre Faro offers impressive views of the Strait of Messina and the nearby volcano Mount Etna, which is often visible in the distance. Here you can take a short break and enjoy the view.
From Torre Faro you continue south to Messina, a major city at the north-eastern end of Sicily, just off the Strait of Messina. The route takes you along the coast and through the town, which is known for its port and lively atmosphere. In Messina you can (time permitting) visit the impressive cathedral and experience the famous bell and clock making. The town has numerous cafes and restaurants, ideal for a refreshment before continuing the journey.
The next and probably last stop for today for both tracks is Taormina, one of Sicily's most famous towns, perched on a hill above the sea. The ride to Taormina involves some steeper climbs, but the reward is the stunning views of the coast and Mount Etna. In Taormina you can experience the impressive ancient theater ruins, the charming alleys and the lively atmosphere. The city is a true jewel of Sicily and offers numerous opportunities for relaxation and sightseeing.
The last few meters take you from Taormina toup to Castelmola, a small but picturesque mountain village that sits above Taormina. The ride takes you through narrow, winding roads that take you to a breathtaking viewpoint. Castelmola offers a wonderful view of Taormina and the sea and is known for its cozy cafes and relaxed atmosphere. Here you can end the day with a view of the illuminated city of Taormina and enjoy the local cuisine.
Day 5: Castelmola — Catania
The descent on the last day of the tour is mostly gentle and already offers great views of the coast and the surrounding valley.
After leaving Taormina, the route takes you through the Alcantara Valley. The route runs through a scenic area characterized by dense forests and the famous Alcantara River. Here you can admire the impressive lava formations and lush vegetation. The road is well maintained and takes you gently downhill, making the ride pleasant.
From Alcantara you continue to Giarre, a larger town that serves as a gateway to the surrounding rural areas. Giarre is on the way to Catania and offers a good opportunity to take a short break and prepare for the rest of the ride.
The route from Giarre to Catania takes you through the fertile plains around Mount Etna. This region is characterized by vineyards, lemon groves and olive trees. The road is relatively flat and allows for a relaxed ride back to the coast. You ride through smaller towns and villages that reflect the agricultural heart of Sicily.
Track 2 cycles steeply uphill and comes very close to the island's landmark - Mount Etna. At almost 2,000 meters above sea level you will be rewarded with an incredible view over the entire island, the Italian mainland and of course the famous volcano that is almost within reach.
The last leg of the tour will take you back to Catania, a lively city at the foot of Mount Etna. The return to the city will take you through the characteristic streets of Catania, where you can enjoy the urban amenities and cultural offerings of the city. Catania has numerous attractions, including the impressive cathedral and the lively markets.
