At a Glance
Uncover Sicily's natural treasures as you immerse into an enchanting 6 days voyage from Palermo to Etna. Eternal crossroads of the Mediterranean, be seduced by its cultural treasures, breathtaking landscapes, exquisite cuisine and uncover centuries-old ruins where bygone civilisations are at every turn.
Your Mediterranean adventure begins at Palermo, after which you’ll shuttle to the breathtaking village of Cefalù where we traverse its stunning paths. From your hotel's private dock, take a dip in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Explore the stunning Hamlet of Castelbuono known for its resplendent Arab-Norman castle. Behold the striking Mount Etna famous for hosting several legends. Hike into the Alcantara River gorge whose rich volcanic soil is responsible for the surrounding landscape's prosperity. Explore Etna's northern slopes from Piano Provenzana and drink in the awe-inspiring sights of Sicily ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- All meals as specified in itinerary
- All luggage and shuttle transfers
- Brief orientation in Palermo on Day 1
- 5 nights accommodation in 5 star hotels on a twin share basis
- Professional guiding: two support vans, 6:1 guest to leader ratio on average
- Hiking and sightseeing as stated in the itinerary
- Park and other entry fees
- Comprehensive travel planner with detailed pre-trip information
- Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
- Snacks and beverages between meals
- Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Itinerary
THREE HIKING OPTIONS: On this day, meet up with your tour leaders at 10:30 am at the Best Western Ai Cavalieri Hotel, Sicily. Please, ensure to arrive dressed in hiking clothes and sturdy hiking shoes for rocky terrain; also come along with a daypack containing your rain gear and anything else you may want for the day's hike and your luggage (it will be transported to our first night's accommodations). Welcome to Sicily! Following our meeting in Palermo, we shuttle to the serene and charming Cefalù, a prehistoric seaside village featured in Giuseppe Tornatore's iconic film, Cinema Paradiso. We enjoy tasty Sicilian specialties for lunch and walk along Cefalù's scenic beach, then through its historic centre, teeming with laid-back piazzas and prehistoric cobbled streets. We have the opportunity of entering the town's well-known cathedral, a masterpiece of Norman architecture and a World Heritage monument. After that, we go up a trail to La Rocca where you are sure to be captivated by the stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, serene waterfronts, and colourful rooftops. In the right conditions, look across the gleaming water to spot the distant Aeolian Islands. |
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The amazingly beautiful 5-star boutique beachfront hotel, Le Calette, will be our home for the next two nights. On getting there you can choose to settle into and revel in the comfort of your room, relax by the pool, or lounge at the hotel's private beach. In the evening, we convene for a welcome reception and aperitivo (cocktail), followed by a delicious dinner at the hotel's magnificent restaurant to savour the taste of traditional Sicilian cuisine. |
THREE HIKING OPTIONS: Start the morning with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, and shuttle to the scenic hamlet of Castelbuono which houses an ancient Arab-Norman castle. Begin on a trail with panoramas of the region's rolling hills. Our route then winds down through the oak forest, Mediterranean macchia (shrub) and the distinctive woody plants unique to this part of Sicily. Along the way, we make a stop at a small vegetable farm, where our friend, Mario, educates us on how to make mana, a local sap similar to maple syrup or honey. From here, we go on to our lunch spot which was formerly a mediaeval abbey but was transformed into a luxurious country resort, Abbazia Santa Anastasia. |
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After a refreshing lunch of regional specialties and wine tasting, we traverse on foot along valley trails around the abbey's vineyards or ride the shuttle back to Cefalù and our hotel. This afternoon, we have a lot of time and you could decide to take a dip in the Tyrrhenian Sea from Le Calette's private beaches or relax by the pool. At night, we indulge in a rather fun dinner, as it is going to be a festive Sicilian affair including a pizza-making lesson at a nearby villa. |
THREE HIKING OPTIONS: Level 1, Approx. 6 km (4 miles), Elevation gain: 183 m (600 ft) Level 2, Approx. 11 km (7 miles), Elevation gain: 274 m (900 ft) Level 3, Approx. 14 km (9 miles), Elevation gain: 305 m (1000 ft)
We start the day by enjoying breakfast and a cappuccino. Following that, we shuttle for a long but picturesque ride to the immaculate Alcantara River, which flows through the lower topography of Europe's largest active volcano. The landscape formed by this river includes a spectacular arrangement of flora and fauna and also fascinating black lava canyons. Following a mouthwatering lunch at a local agriturismo (a farm stay designed to host guests), we set out hiking into the Alcantara River gorge. This region's volcanic soil is responsible for flourishing vineyards, olive groves, and hazelnut orchards. Looking up at Etna's striking snow-capped summit, you would understand why many legends take place here! If you go for one of the shorter hiking options today, you could make a stop in the ancient village of Linguaglossa which rests on the prehistoric black volcanic rock. Then, connect to the trail from here and make your way to our night's accommodation, Villa Neri. |
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The Villa Neri is a 5-star chic resort with private patios overlooking the vineyards and oak and pine-forested topographies that make Sicily exceptional. You still have the time to unwind, maybe in your room or at the spa. (Spa treatments are not included in the trip fee. Reservations are advised). For dinner in the evening, we meet for a delightful meal of delicious Sicilian specialties and gourmet cuisine at our hotel. |
TWO HIKING OPTIONS: Enjoy a nice breakfast at the hotel for energy to begin the day. Then, hop in the shuttle for a scenic ride that brings us to Piano Provenzana higher up on the alluring northern slopes of Etna. From here, we traverse on foot up this legendary summit, moving past the lower crops and scrub vegetation for a fiercer and rougher volcanic landscape. There are several picturesque spots to take a break and enjoy a packed lunch on the trail. You can continue hiking or retire to the hotel if you're exhausted. Join the shuttle for a lift to Taormina where Greco-Roman history and chic architecture have contributed to the city's nickname, "Pearl of Sicily''. |
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Here, we encounter the remarkable 5-star, Four Seasons San Domenico Palace, our home for the next two nights where we're met with remarkable hospitality and elegant decor, accompanied by stunning vistas of Mount Etna and the Tyrrhenian Sea. Today would be a good day to massage your hiking muscles at the top-tier spa. At night, you can explore Taormina's scenic streets and grab a nice dinner on your own at one of the numerous fine restaurants. Your tour leaders would be happy to recommend their favourites. |
THREE HIKING OPTIONS: We begin our last full day of hiking in this Mediterranean paradise. From our hotel, we go for a climb up to the hilltop Hamlet of Castelmola, which is home to several charming restaurants with great vistas for lunch on your own. If you still have the strength and will to continue hiking, go on to the top of Monte Venere. Enjoy the astonishing vistas overlooking small stone villages, Taormina's prehistoric theatre and the grand scrub-strewn topography stretching from Mount Etna to the sea. In the afternoon, we return to the hotel for some relaxation moments. You have the option of lounging by the poolside or receiving a rejuvenating spa treatment. Tonight, we gather to celebrate our Sicily adventure with a farewell toast and dinner at the hotel's superb restaurant. |
Level 1, Approx. 3 km (2 miles), Elevation gain: 91 m (300 ft) Your final morning, together with your team leader and a local guide, step back in time and uncover Taormina's exceptional Greek Theater. Dating back to the 3rd century BC, this prehistoric landmark has hosted a lot of events from dramatic theatrical performances to gladiatorial battles. One of the world's most famous amphitheater's, the glistening views of the sea beyond the stage makes it one of the most aesthetically pleasing as well, and more and more concerts and festivals continue to hold here. For those who in pursue of a more relaxing morning, savour a sleep in and enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Pamper yourself to a rejuvenating spa treatment (at own expense). Come late morning, journey back to Catania where your inspiring Mediterranean adventure ends. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
Dates & Prices
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The departure point is Palermo, Sicily
- The finish point is Catania, Sicily
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Palermo. The nearest airport is Palermo Airport, the main international airport serving the city of Palermo, the capital of Sicily. which is 21 km away. Other nearby airports include Trapani, 77.9 km, and Catania, 168.9 km.
Sicily has a typical Mediterranean climate with mild and wet winters and hot, dry summers with very changeable intermediate seasons. On the coasts, especially in the south-west, the climate is affected by the African currents and summers can be scorching. Snow falls above 900–1000 metres, but it can fall in the hills. During late spring and early autumn, Sicily generally enjoys sunny skies and warm temperatures during the day and comfortably cool evenings. In early spring, Sicily can be quite chilly—extra layers are essential that time of year, as we may even encounter some snow on Etna. Rain showers are possible year-round.
The routes on this trip are rated Levels 1-4.
Level 1, 2-5 hours, 3-8km (2-5 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 244m (800 ft)
Level 2, 2-4 hours, 6-11km (4-7 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 396m (1300 ft)
Level 3, 3-5 hours, 8-14km (5-9 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 610m (2000 ft)
Level 4, 4-6 hours, 10-18km(6-11 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 914m (3000 ft)
Level 5, 5-7 hours, 11-21+ km (7-13+ miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1219m (4000+ ft)
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.