Make your way to Palazzolo Acreide in the Hyblean Mountains, where you’ll spend your first night in Sicily. Pick up your bikes and detailed road book with all the maps and information you’ll need to make this self-guided cycling tour go smoothly.

There will be time to explore Palazzolo Acreide’s graceful old town before cycling through some beautiful upland scenery, alternating from rugged rock outcrops to tranquil green pastures and stonewalled fields. Make your way to Modica, famous for its chilli-tinged chocolate! En route stop and visit the hillside town of Ragusa Ibla, one of the prettiest baroque towns in the “Val di Noto’. There’s a little bit of uphill en route that’ll stretch your legs and get you in the mood for supper!

It’s another extremely scenic day today, as you leave Modica behind and pass through this stunning mountain region, entering striking canyons and taking a break at Scicli, with its warren-like maze of alleys. Continue your ride downhill all the way to the Sicilian coast at Pozzallo with its lovely sandy beaches.

Although this is one of the longer days of riding, you’re leaving the mountains and the terrain is pancake flat. You’ll be able to cover a good stretch of ground easily and will pass through the Sicilian wetlands where rare birds stop over on their way between Europe and Africa. Today your journey will also take you along the coast to the southernmost tip of Sicily where you’ll actually be on the same latitude as northern Tunisia. Continue through the age-old fishing village of Marzamemi and finish in San Lorenzo for the night.

More flat, easy riding today, as you head north along the coastal roads. Your route enters the Oasi di Vendicari coastal nature park, an unspoilt reserve of birdlife and plants. Continuing through this lesser-known part of southern Sicily you’ll reach Noto, one of the island’s most interesting and beautiful towns, famous for its intricate baroque architecture and part of a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Today you have two options of route. You can cycle inland to the vista point of Cavagrande del Cassible, followed by a spectacular twisting downhill to the coast and then onto Syracuse. Alternatively, opt to enjoy more flat, coastal riding, as you head to the famous city of Syracuse, where ancient Greek ruins are still part of the fabric of the city. You won’t want to miss the amphitheatre and other ancient sites, but Syracuse isn’t just stuck in the past. It’s a vibrant bustling city with great restaurants and a real buzz about it – a great place to end your Sicilian cycling tour.

After breakfast it’s time to check-out and head for home or your next adventure.