Splendours of Sicily

Welcome to Sicily where you are met and transferred to your luxury hotel on the Bay of Palermo.

Hotel Villa Igiea

Begin your adventure at Monreale on the outskirts of Palermo to see the stunning cathedral and cloisters. Afterwards head back into town to discover the Palermo Duomo, intriguingly built on the site of a Muslim mosque. In the Quattro Canti, admire the 12th century San Cataldo Church with its Moorish-style architecture and La Martorana Church, decorated with beautiful Byzantine mosaics. Visit to the impressive Palazzo dei Normanni and Palazzo Albatellis.

Hotel Villa Igiea | Meals: B

Explore the rugged west of Sicily starting off at Segesta, one of the finest surviving Greek temples in Sicily. Continue along the coast and visit a wonderful wine cellar for a tour and tasting before heading to your hotel which boasts spectacular views over the Temple of Agrigento.

Villa Athena | Meals: B

Rise early and visit the 2,000-year-old Temple of Concordia before the crowds, being led by your guide, on an in-depth visit to the fascinating Valley of the Temples, one of the most significant archaeological sites in Sicily. Visit the impressive remains of five Doric temples at this richly preserved 5th century BC site, resplendent with thousand-year-old olive trees, almond groves and diverse Mediterranean flora. The Temple of Concordia, one of the best-preserved Greek temples anywhere in the world, is a standout. The afternoon is yours to relax and enjoy your beautiful hotel.

Villa Athena | Meals: B

Continue to the lesser visited south-eastern corner of Sicily pausing in the graceful old town of Piazza Armerina which is surrounded by forest. Wander through the ancient site of Villa Romana del Casale, originally home to Maximianus Herculeus, Diocletian’s co-emperor, and his son Maxentius. Admire the stunning mosaics depicting scenes of mythology, hunting and domestic life. Next stop is Caltagirone, the pottery capital of Sicily. Take your time strolling through the historic centre of town and browse the shops and stalls selling the beautiful ceramics. Arrive into Syracuse later this afternoon.

Ortea Palace Luxury Hotel | Meals: B

The city of Syracuse, birthplace of Archimedes, was once described by Cicero as "the greatest Greek city and the most beautiful of them all". What began as a small Greek outpost would eventually become one of the most prosperous and powerful states in the entire ancient world. Start your exploration at the magnificent 5th century BC Temple of Athena, located in the heart of the Ortygia neighbourhood, one of Sicily's most picture-perfect destinations and known for its charming shops and restaurants. This little island connected to the main city of Syracuse is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site and has always been a strong focal point of the city.

Ortea Palace Luxury Hotel | Meals: B

Explore the glorious Baroque towns of Sicily’s south east where honey-coloured facades glow in the sunshine. Admire the splendid cathedral in Noto, the medieval centre of Modica and hilltop Ragusa where the old and new towns contrast urban order with charm and atmosphere. Pause for refreshments along the way enjoying local delicacies from artisanal chocolate and nougat to gelato and caciocavallo cheese.

Ortea Palace Luxury Hotel | Meals: B

Travel north to Castelmola, a tiny hamlet with sensational views. Continue to Taormina for a walking tour. Visit the Greek Theatre, originally built by the Greeks and rebuilt later by the Romans. Overlooking the surrounding countryside and Mt Etna, views from the amphitheatre are spectacular. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

The Ashbee Hotel | Meals: B

Explore the area around Mt Etna, Europe's biggest active volcano, by jeep. Pass by the villages of Piedimonte Etneo and Linguaglossa and head off road to "grotta del Corruccio", a lava cave which you explore by torchlight. Continue to the Sartorius craters where you hike to the top to admire the views. Reward yourself with lunch in a local winery before returning to Taormina.

The Ashbee Hotel | Meals: BL

Transfer to Catania Airport for your departure flight.

Meals: B