SICILY
THE ANCIENT ISLAND
START/FINISH
CATANIA - RAGUSA
DURATION
8 DAYS - 7 NIGHTS
AVG.DISTANCE
70 KM
AVG.ELEVATION
1'250 MT
DIFFICULTY
HIGHLIGHTS
This tour has something for everybody: cyclists and non cyclists!
Catania, Siracusa and Ragusa are three of the best locations in Sicily, with Greek and Roman historic background and natural beauties.
A lot of up and downs, nice quiet roads and one big challenge: the Etna Volcano with its 2000m of elevation gain.
But not only we will have some great riding, we will also explore the fascinating island with its greek and roman heritage, fantastic food and wine and breathtaking views.
Pistacchio and granita in Catania, red wine in Avola, fine dark chocolate in Modica...what else do you need??
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DETAILS
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START-FINISH: Catania - Ragusa
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2 nights Catania – 2 nights Siracusa – 2 nights Ragusa
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DIFFICULTY: 3 - Easy/Intermediate
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AVG DISTANCE: 70km
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AVG ASCENT: 1000mt
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Main Route: 400km – Total Elevation: 5000m
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Recommended Airport: Catania
YOUR RIDE
WHO WOULD ENJOY THIS EXPERIENCE?
The experience is built for all riders able to ride for 4-5 hours. This is not a race or high intensity riding, but rather a true epic cycling Experience into the exciting atmosphere of the Giro D’Italia and its legendary cols.
We will ride as a group on the rolling terrain and as individuals or small groups on the climbs, so that everyone will enjoy the ride. On top of each major climb we will regroup to watch the pro peloton suffering, and then enjoy the descent together. As a team, we’ll support each other during the ride and make sure everyone finishes safe and happy!
All cyclists interested in cycling races, legendary climbs, and magnificent scenery will enjoy this incredible experience!
THE TOUR INCLUDES
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A fantastic tour itinerary designed by Andrea and Simon
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All hotel accommodations in strategic hotels, generally 4 stars, in twin-double room
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All breakfasts, 1 lunch and all dinners
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2 professional guides on tour (one fully qualified mechanic)
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Van support throughout the tour
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All in-tour transfers
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Snacks and food supplements including electrolytes, gels, and energy bars during rides by OTE SPORT
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Garmin 810-820 loan unit with maps
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1 top quality cycling kit made by DAMA (jersey, knicks)
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Detailed printed tour information booklet
MORE ABOUT THE TERRAIN
We have selected some of the best stages offering a mix of all terrains, including some good climbing!
The start from the Agreigento is definitely not too hard, but after those sweet hills the Ascent up to Etna Volcano is more demanding!
Some of the other climbs can be challenging as well with some steep sections, but generally for short distances. The Etna Volcano is the hardest climb but definitely one of the highlights of the trip!
The descents are generally technical but well-paved and safe. There will be some rolling terrain as well, but honestly not much!
ON REQUEST, NOT INCLUDED
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Single room
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High-end rental bike
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Massage at hotel
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Personal training program for the 8 weeks
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Personal airport transfer
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Flights
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Travel Insurance
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Guides Tips
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TOUR ITINERARY
Day One, Catania Warm-up Ride
Main Route: 50km; 30mi | Total Ascent: 1000m; 3300ft
Easy Spin along the coast. This is a chance to ease out any jet lag and become accustomed to the European time zone, but also to explore the historical heritage of Catania and the surrounding hills.
Day Two, Catania loop to Taormina
Main Route: 70km; 45mi | Total Ascent: 1000m; 3300ft
After a nice warm up on some quiet roads we will take our time to climb up to the fantastic Taormina. After an interesting tour of the Greek-Roman town, we will ride back into Catania for a super Granita and Dinner!
Day Three, Catania loop to ETNA Volcano
Main Route: 75km; 46mi | Total Ascent: 1500m; 4700ft
Today we climb the challenging Etna Volcano. The summit is always super exciting and the atmosphere of the Etna Volcano will be almost unreal, like riding on the Moon! After a long and super fun descend, we will have a fine gourmet dinner on the beach!
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Day Four, Catania to Siracusa
Main Route: 65km; 40mi | Total Ascent: 800m; 3000ft
We leave Catania and ride along the coast to the beautiful town of Siracusa. The old town is one of the nicest settlement of the island.Greek and Roman ruins are everywhere and you will be impressed by the beauty of the place!
Day Five, Siracusa loop to Avola
Main Route: 55km; 37mi | Total Ascent: 600m; 1900ft
An easy day along the beautiful coast to Avola, where the famous Nero D'avola Wine is made. We will stop for a wine tasting in a famous winery on our way back to Siracusa....and keep in mind its' only a tasting!
Day Six, Siracusa to Ragusa
Main Route: 65km; 42mi | Total Ascent: 600m; 1900ft
Another gorgeous ride from the beach to the hills with the town of Ragusa as our final destination for the trip. Few nice climbs on our way, across beautiful countryside with very few cars around.
Ragusa is beautiful town rich in Barocco style architecture, Italian gardens and villas.
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Day Seven, Ragusa loop to Modica
Main Route: 65km; 42mi | Total Ascent: 600m; 1900ft
What a finish! We ride on the hills around Ragusa first, then stop in Modica where we will stop for a Chocolate tasting and visit of the factory. After the ride, we will celebrate with a family dinner and cooking class at our friends house!
Salute!
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Day Eight, Arrivederci!
Breakfast and Goodbye!
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Salute!
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TOUR MAP
