The Best of West Coast of Sicily

Begin your cycling adventure with a warm welcome at Palermo airport, followed by a comfortable group transfer to the picturesque town of Castellammare del Golfo. Nestled on the Sicilian coast, this charming locale sets the stage for an unforgettable journey.

Today’s ride, marked by moderate difficulty, promises a blend of physical challenge and enchanting Sicilian landscapes. Departing from Castellammare del Golfo, you’ll encounter a series of undulating terrains for the first 30 kilometers, offering a taste of Sicily’s diverse topography. The highlight of the day awaits as you embark on a long, breathtaking climb adorned with hairpin bends, leading to the quaint village of Erice. Renowned as one of Italy’s most picturesque villages, Erice offers a perfect spot for a delightful cappuccino break, complemented by the irresistible Genovesi cookies – a local delicacy.

Rejuvenated, you’ll descend towards Trapani, a historic city celebrated for its age-old tradition of marine salt production. The final stretch of the ride, a gentle 6-kilometer journey, unveils the spectacular salt pans of the Trapani and Paceco nature reserve. Here, a visit to the Museum of Salt provides insightful glimpses into the significance of this “white gold” in shaping the region’s history.

Prepare for a day filled with scenic beauty and rich history as you cycle along the captivating Western Sicilian coastline. Departing from Trapani, your journey leads you to Marsala after 25 kilometers. This seaside town is not only renowned for its world-famous fortified Marsala wine but also holds historical significance as the landing site of Giuseppe Garibaldi’s Expedition of the Thousand in 1860, a pivotal moment in Italian unification.

Leaving Marsala, the route brings you to Mazara del Vallo, a melting pot of cultures from Phoenician to Norman times. Wander through its historic streets, marvel at the grandeur of the Cathedral of Saint Vitus, and visit the Dancing Satyr Museum. Mazara’s bustling port, one of Europe’s largest fishing fleets, reflects the town’s vibrant maritime heritage. Here, indulge in the finest fusion of traditional Sicilian and Arabic cuisines, savouring the fresh flavours of the sea.

The final leg of today’s ride takes you along the picturesque coastline to Selinunte, an archaeological gem home to some of the most impressive ancient Greek temples. These majestic ruins stand as silent sentinels of a bygone era, offering a glimpse into the historical grandeur of the Mediterranean.

Embark on a day filled with historical insights and natural beauty as you cycle from Selinunte through the heart of the Belice Valley. Departing from Castelvetrano, your route delves into the wild landscapes of western Sicily, where scenic byways wind through lush vineyards, revealing the region’s agricultural richness.

As you pedal through the Belice Valley, you’ll encounter a poignant chapter in local history. This area was devastated by a catastrophic earthquake in 1968, leaving behind ghost villages and a landscape etched with memories. The small village of Partanna marks the beginning of a 30-kilometre stretch where the remnants of this disaster are still palpable amid the ever-present vineyards and pastures.

One of the day’s most striking features is the Cretto di Burri (or Cretto di Ghibellina), an expansive land artwork by Alberto Burri. Built over the ruins of Gibellina, this concrete labyrinth memorializes the town’s tragic past, symbolizing the intricate maze of investigations that followed the earthquake.

Continuing your journey, you’ll weave through the vineyards of Belice, passing through key wine-producing towns like Poggioreale, Salaparuta, and Santa Margherita del Belice. Your destination for the day is Sambuca di Sicilia, a town rich in culture and history.

Embark on a challenging yet rewarding journey through the Sicani Mountains, a region steeped in history and natural beauty. Departing from Sambuca di Sicilia, prepare for a ride dominated by undulating terrain, where the only constant is the captivating landscape.

Your first stop, Chiusa Sclafani, is a quaint village renowned for its abundant cherry production. Amidst the picturesque scenery, the village also cultivates olives and peaches, epitomizing the diverse agricultural richness of the region.

Next, you’ll pedal towards Palazzo Adriano, an idyllic village with a unique history. Established in the 15th century by Albanian emigrants, it gained fame as the filming location for Giuseppe Tornatore’s Oscar-winning film, “Nuovo Cinema Paradiso.” Pause here for a delightful break, savoring a cappuccino and “cuddureddi,” a local sweet pastry filled with cooked wine and almonds.

As you leave Palazzo Adriano, the natural world takes center stage. Your route meanders through pastures, cultivated fields, and dense forests, leading to the infamous town of Corleone. Known globally for its association with the Mafia, particularly through Francis Ford Coppola’s “Godfather” trilogy, Corleone presents a different reality to its visitors. Engage in conversations with locals who assert the non-existence of the Mafia, offering a different perspective on this complex and storied town.

Today’s ride, though hilly, promises a serene journey through the picturesque countryside of Sicily. Departing from the historic town of Corleone, you will cycle across the undulating hills that characterize this beautiful region.

Your path will lead you through a scenic landscape, dotted with the unique flora of Sicily, towards the limestone massif of Rocca Busambra. This towering natural wonder adds a sense of grandeur to your ride. As you approach your destination, the landscape transforms, introducing you to the Ficuzza forest – the largest woodland area in western Sicily. This lush, green expanse provides a tranquil backdrop for the final leg of your journey.

The final day of our tour is a shorter ride, allowing extra time to explore the vibrant city of Palermo. As we depart from Masseria Rossella, we head towards Piana degli Albanesi. This unique town is one of the most significant Arbëreshe (Albanian refugee descendants) colonies in Sicily, where the community has preserved its distinct language, traditions, and religion.

Piana degli Albanesi is also famous for producing some of the best cannoli in Sicily. Here, you can savor these delightful pastries and understand why they are so celebrated in this region. After indulging in this sweet treat, we continue our journey towards Palermo.

The route transitions from hilly landscapes to breathtaking views of the sea and coastline. En route to Palermo, we’ll pass through Monreale, renowned for its spectacular Cathedral. This Middle Age Sicilian masterpiece is a beautiful fusion of Islamic, Byzantine, and Romanesque influences.

Arriving in Palermo, our hotel is conveniently located in the heart of the city, perfect for experiencing the local lifestyle. You’ll have the opportunity to stroll through the colorful Ballarò and Vucciria markets, taste the exquisite Sicilian street-food, and immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the locals.

For those who wish to extend their stay and fully embrace the Palermo experience, we offer the option of an extra night in the city (available upon request).

As the sun rises over the vibrant city of Palermo, our journey together reaches its end. Today, we say goodbye to the stunning landscapes, the rich history, and the unforgettable experiences we’ve shared. Sicily has not just been a destination; it’s been a journey through time, culture, and flavors, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts. Take with you the memories of rolling hills, ancient ruins, and the warmth of the Sicilian sun. Until we meet again, may these memories inspire your future travels and bring a smile to your face. Arrivederci, Sicily!