The Trip

On this special Sicilian adventure you will wander the ethereal volcanic landscapes of Mt. Etna, cruise the exotic islands of Lipari and Volcano, visit tucked away Sicilian villages and explore the Ancient Valley of the Temples.

This small-group journey was designed especially for Chi Omega Fraternity by Alessandra G. Ranghiasci, the Italian countess who organized 2011’s “The Countess’ Private Italy”.  

Besides visiting artistic masterpieces and architectural marvels, Alessandra will introduce you to real Sicilians. Chat with the fishermen who bring in the catch of the day, enjoy fine meals prepared for you by award-winning chefs and dine with intriguing Sicilian personalities including Princess Maria Carla Borghese of Siracusa and the Barons Calafati Canalotti of Palermo. This is a trip that you should not miss.

Itinerary

Day 0 – April 13: Fly from the US to Sicily – Palermo airport

Day 1- April 14: Palermo
Palermo is a treasure trove of architectural and cultural antiquities. Upon arrival in this diverse metropolis, you will have time to rest up from your flight before meeting your guide and co-travelers for a welcome talk and dinner. Sleep in Palermo

Day 2 – April 15: Palermo
We will spend the full day visiting beautiful Palermo and its amazing Cathedral, the Palatine Chapel, Piazza Pretoria, the many narrow streets and alleys and market stalls packed with all sorts of merchandise. Tonight we will visit the exclusive and beautiful Palazzo Aiutamicristo where the Barons Calefati di Canalotti will welcome you, tour you through their incredible palace and host you to a special dinner.  Sleep in Palermo

Day 3 – April 16: Palermo
This morning we will make our way just outside Palermo, to the artistic highlight of the day: the mosaics at the Norman Cathedral in Monreale. This amazing monument is a dazzling mixture of Arab, Byzantine and Norman artistic styles all framed by traditional Romanesque architecture. Nowhere else on the planet can you find such a perfect blend between the Christian and Muslim artistic worlds of the 12th century. In the afternoon you will go back in time to enjoy a special Sicilian puppet show. The puppet theatre conveys ideals which are dear to Sicilian people: chivalry, honour, justice, faith and love. Its main themes are related to the legendary stories of Charlemagne’s knights. You will be amazed by the uniqueness of this experience – there is no other show like it on the planet!. Here the crowd is expected to take part...to jeer when a villain plots a dastardly deed or cheer when the hero is victorious. Sleep in Palermo

Day 4 – April 17: Segesta, Selinunte
This morning we will say goodbye to Palermo and we will take in the amazing temple of Segesta. We will then make our way to the other side of the island.

The highlight of the day will no doubt be Selinunte, one of Europe's largest archaeological parks. The contrast of these ancient Greek ruins over the blue Mediterranean Sea is a sight you will never forget. In the afternoon we will drive along one of the most beautiful stretches of Sicilian farmland to Agrigento. Sleep outside Agrigento

Day 5 – April 18: Agrigento
This morning you will visit the Ancient Valley of the Temples, one of the richest archaeological areas of the world. A passionate and knowledgeable art historian will tour you among the remains of approximately 20 ancient Greek temples including the Temple of Concord, Castor, Pollux and Hercule. In the afternoon you will have time to relax and enjoy the beautiful pool of our hotel, or take in the amazing archaeological museum of Agrigento.  Sleep outside Agrigento

Day 6 – April 19: Modica and Noto
This morning we will drive to the small hill town of Modica to enjoy its folklore and incredible chocolate-making traditions. We will also stop at a farm in the countryside for an unforgettable tasting of fresh ricotta and other local products. In the late afternoon we will visit the baroque jewel of Noto, a sophisticated city built at the end of the 17th century after an earthquake almost entirely destroyed Old Noto. Sleep outside of Noto

Day 7 – April 20: Siracusa
As one of the paramount jewels of Sicily, Siracusa deserves a full day sightseeing. You will explore the beautiful Piazza del Duomo and the poetic Fonte Arethusa in the morning, and in the afternoon you will enjoy the amazing Archaeological Park of Neapolis, with its incredible Greek theatre, limestone quarries and the famous Ear of Dyonisus. Tonight you will have some down time to relax and soak in the beauty of Sicily at your own peace. Sleep outside of Noto

Day 8 – April 21: Giardino del Biviere and Siracusa – April 24
This morning we will have a relaxed departure for the renowned botanical garden of Giardino del Biviere, owned by the Prince and Princess Borghese. You will explore the garden and the House of the Borghese, and then you will have a light lunch served al fresco in the company of the Princess Maria Carla. Next, you will transfer to the very pleasant seaside town of Giardini di Naxos, just outside Taormina.  Sleep in Giardini di Naxos

Day 9 – April 22: Taormina
Taormina is one of the foremost pearls of the Mediterranean Sea. We start our day with a stroll along its most famous promenade to one Sicily’s finest “pasticcerias”. After fueling up, we will enjoy a lovely city tour that will include the city’s exquisite Greek theatre and few secrets that only the locals of Taormina know about. You will have the afternoon on your own to shop, browse and explore at your own pace. Sleep in Giardini di Naxos

Day 10 – April 23 – Aeolian Islands
This morning we will depart from Taormina heading towards Milazzo where, weather permitting, we will catch a mini-cruise along the fascinating Aeolian Islands of Lipari and Vulcano. The town of Lipari, with its 16th century castle, is the largest and one of the oldest settlements on the islands. It was believed by the ancients that Lipari was the home of Aeolus, God of the Winds. From the sea you will then behold amazing white-sand beaches, the Lovers Cave and dramatic cliffs before heading to the hot sulphur waters and black-sand beaches of Vulcano. Lunch will of course be a fish feast worthy of a king.  Sleep in Giardini di Naxos

Day 11 – April 24 – Etna and Food and Wine exploration
Today we will explore the amazing volcanic landscapes of Mount Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe. Learn about the many legends connected with its magic lava-crusted slopes, and enjoy fabulous views of the region before heading to a winery where you will savour local wines and food specialties. Sleep in Giardini di Naxos

Day 12 – April 25 – End of tour, transfer to Catania airport

What’s included in your trip:

• Accommodation in carefully selected, centrally located hotels and charming country inns
• All group transportation in a deluxe air-conditioned private bus
• All breakfasts and one main meal per day, including one dinner at the private historical palace of Baroness Calefati di Canalotti and one lunch at Princess Borghese’s estate
• The services of a professional leader and local guides
• Entrance to museums and attractions as per itinerary
• Boat cruise of Lipari and Vulcano islands (weather permitting)
• A post-departure travel insurance plan from USI Travel Affinity

What is not included:

• International airfare from and to the US
• Personal expenses
• Tips for your M&G guide, driver and local guides

12 days, 11 nights
$3,625 per person
$680 single supplement

Itinerary details:
3 nights in Palermo
2 nights near Agrigento
2 nights near Noto
4 nigths in Giardini di Naxos (Taormina)

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