The Splendours of Sicily 2022

This morning we’ll take to the streets to dive into Palermo’s fascinating anti-Mafia movement with a local guide – visiting the house of anti-Mafia magistrate Paolo Borsellino, as we go. Then: it’s onwards to Monreale. Perched atop the Monte Caputo, overlooking the fertile valley of La Conca d’Oro – Monreale is renowned for its awe-inspiring Cathedral. Here, we’ll spend some time admiring the Norman-Byzantine architecture and stunning mosaics, before moving on to our idyllic accommodation in Selinunte. (B)

Accommodation: Agriturismo Case di Latomie (or similar)

This morning, we’re in for a culinary treat: prepare to sample a local farm’s tasty olives, award-winning oil and fresh breads. Then: en route to Favara, we’ll stop by Mazara del Vallo to indulge in a delicious antipasti lunch that explores the Arabic influence on Sicilian cuisine. Appetites sufficiently quenched, we’ll continue to the historic fishing port of Sciacca. Dating back to the ancient Greek period, Sciacca has been known for its natural thermal springs and ceramics. Here, we’ll have the opportunity to visit a local ceramic workshop and enjoy some free time to explore – before moving on to our hotel in Favara. (B,L)

Accommodation: The Alba Palace Hotel (or similar)

After breakfast we’ll move on to Agrigento to visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Valley of Temples. As one of the most impressive collections of ancient Greek monuments in the world – a local guide will reveal the history of this enchanting archaeological site. Then: the ancient history lesson continues with a visit to Piazza Armerina’s Villa Romana del Casale – which contains one of the largest collections of Roman mosaics in the world. We’ll end our day in the magnificent hilltop town of Ragusa, where our idyllic accommodation in the historic town centre of Ibla, awaits (B)

We’ll start our day in indulgent style: with a chocolate tasting session in Modica. And then? The gastronomic theme continues as we venture into the countryside for a fascinating lesson in cheese-making. We’ll gain a unique insight into the rustic lifestyle of Sicilian shepherds from a local breeder – and learn the secrets behind creating the area’s famed provola ragusana cheese. After a delicious tasting session and included lunch, we’ll return to Ragusa – where the rest of the day is free to wander the sloping alleyways and historic Ragusa Ibla at our leisure. (B,L)

On today’s agenda: a visit to the city of Noto, where we’ll learn more about almond cultivation with a local expert. After indulging in an almond themed lunch, we’ll press on to lovely Syracuse. Here, a local guide will take us around the ancient archaeological park – home to the impressive Teatro Greco. This evening, we’ll enjoy some free time relaxing at our hotel or exploring the nearby Ortigia area – Syracuse’s ancient town centre. (B,L)

Accommodation: Caportigia Boutique Hotel (or similar)

Coastal Syracuse – which rivalled Athens as the most important city of ancient Greece – is yours for the taking today. We recommend arranging a boat trip to visit the enchanting hidden caves here. Or spending your free time wandering the array of ancient temples before losing yourself in the city’s winding streets – opening onto magnificent baroque piazzas, enticing boutique storefronts and beautiful sea views. How you spend your day is up to you – but a visit to the stunning Piazza Duomo is a must! (B)

Accommodation: Caportigia Boutique Hotel (or similar)