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Highlights

This cycling tour will skirt the fabulous Tyrrhenian coastline of western Sicily for the most part but it will also allow you to ride inland through a countryside boasting olive trees, vineyards and history in abundance. You will be cycling through Val di Mazara, one of the three administrative emirates into which the island was split during the Arab domination and its highlights are numerous: from trekking along the hilly footpaths of Riserva naturale dello Zingaro overlooking the sea to visiting the Greek roots of the island in the archaeological site of Segesta; from Trapani, the City of Salt to Marsala, the City of Wine, with its evocative landscape made of salt pans and old windmills; and finally from Mazara del Vallo, a renowned fishing port town with a strong Arabic influence to Selinunte with its beautiful beaches and spectacular Greek ruins.

To see

Discover the natural wonders and cultural treasures of Sicily, from the pristine Nature Reserve "Zingaro" and the charming village of Scopello to the ancient archaeological site of Segesta. Choose between the historic towns of Erice or Favignana, explore the Phoenician heritage on Mothia island, visit the coastal town of Mazara del Vallo, and immerse yourself in the biodiversity of the Nature Reserve "Lago Preola e Gorghi Tondi." Sicily unfolds its diverse landscapes and historical gems across this captivating itinerary.

Gastronomy

Arancini, Caponata, Cannoli, Panelle, Granita

Wine

Nero d'Avola, Grillo, Catarratto, Inzolia

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PROGRAM

J-1

Arrival in Castellammare del Golfo


Arrival in Castellammare del Golfo, a beautiful portal town whose history goes back to the Classic antique era when it was the harbour of the towns of Segesta and Erice. Handover of the bikes and the tour information.




Accommodation : Hotel Al Madarig*** - Castellammare del Golfo show
Included : GPS included or Apps,roadbook,travelbook,Orientation with a local guide,luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast the next morning

J-2

From Castellammare del Golfo LOOP to Scopello


From Castellamare you start cycling to the wonderful Nature Reserve “Zingaro”. You will have the chance to explore it on foot, trekking along its undulating footpath offers an enchanting view of the Tyrrhenian sea, with its coves and bays (calette) where you can swim and snorkel in the limpid water. On the way back you stop in the pretty village of Scopello, a lovely, old hamlet (locally known as baglio from the arab bahal: courtyard) dating back to the 17th century. Around its small square you will find most of the houses and shops of the entire village.

Level of difficulty: short steep climb at the beginning of the stage, then easy.

Distance : 28km Hiking (17mi) + 14km Cycling (9mi)

Elevation : 571m




Accommodation : Hotel Al Madarig*** - Castellammare del Golfo show
Included : Itinerary (no cue sheets),bedroom and breakfast the next morning

J-3

From Castellammare del Golfo to Trapani


The ride of this stage will allow you to explore the hinterland of the Sicilian countryside where olive trees and vineyards are in abundance. 25 kilometers into this landscape, alternating ascents to flat parts, you will reach the archeological site of Segesta, an ancient city founded by the Elymians more than 2500 years ago. From here, following secondary country roads, you will finally arrive in Trapani, known in Sicily as the city of Salt.

Level of difficulty: medium.

Distance : 56 Km (35 mi).

Elevation : 631m


Accommodation : Residence San Domenico- Trapani show
Included : luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast the next morning

J-4

From Trapani LOOP to Erice


Option 1: You may decide to visit Erice, an old medieval village perched onto its homonym hill rising 750 meters asl, which you can reach either by cable car or cycling. From Trapani 11 kilometers of hairpin bends separate you from its summit, where you can enjoy a stunning view stretching all the way to the Egadi islands.

Level of difficulty: easy by cable car; difficult by bike.

Distance : 38km (24mi)

Elevation : 784m


Accommodation : Residence San Domenico- Trapani show
Included : Itinerary (no cue sheets),bedroom and breakfast the next morning

J-5

From Trapani to Marsala


Today’s itinerary is completely flat as you will skirt the beautiful coastline the whole time. Windmills, salt pans and mounds of freshly extracted salt will be the backdrop to an unmatchable landscape. You will also have the chance to visit Mothia island, the ancient cradle of Phoenician- Punic civilization which can be reached by motorboat from the lagoon within a few minutes.

Today’s stage ends in Marsala, a city famous for its homonym wine and for the landing of Garibaldi with his expedition of the Thousand.

Level of difficulty: easy.

Distance : 44 Km (27 mi).

Elevation : 122m


Accommodation : Hotel Viacolvento**** - Marsala show
Included : luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast the next morning

J-6

From Marsala to Mazara del Vallo


Today’s stage continues along the enchanting Tyrrhenian coastline until it winds inland through the typical countryside of this part of Sicily with its numerous vineyards and bagli (old centers of farming activities). It will end in Mazara del Vallo, seat of the most important Italian fishing fleet and located at the mouth of the river Mazaro which divides the town in two.

The Arab influence is so dominant as you stroll through the narrow alleyways of the Kasbah (Arabic quarter) with its bright colours and powerful scents, that you will be reminded of the African continent just across the sea.

Level of difficulty: easy.

Distance : 30 Km (19 mi) / 50km (31mi).

Elevation : 67m / 226m


Accommodation : B&B Cortile Sant'Agostino - Mazara del Vallo show
Included : luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast the next morning

J-7

From Mazara del Vallo to Selinunte


After leaving Mazara, you will continue along a road which runs only a kilometer in parallel to the coast and will take you to the Nature Reserve “Lago Preola e Gorghi tondi”. Immersed in a valley, a series of small lakes of karstic origins will appear without warning. Anyone passionate about watching fauna and flora typical of a swampy habitat, will find this rewarding.

Riding on a hilly road in direction of Campobello di Mazara, you pass by Cave di Cusa, famous because from here all the material necessary to the building of the temples of Selinunte, was extracted. Only 13 kilometers further down the road you will have the opportunity to visit the archeological site of Selinunte, the ancient Greek city which will take you back few thousand years. Relax and swim at Selinunte’s beaches.

Level of difficulty: medium-easy

Distance : 35 Km (22 mi) / 41km (25mi).

Elevation : 246m


Accommodation : Hotel Admeto**** - Selinunte show
Included : luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast the next morning

J-8

Departure from Selinunte


End of tour and individual departure (in option) after breakfast or extension with additional days.


Included :

CUSTOMIZED
TOUR

This is a catalog tour, it can be modified as you wish : add extra nights, extra activities (wine tastings, visits, transfers...).

ARRIVALS & DEPARTURES

Arrival in Castellammare del Golfo

Departure from Selinunte

BIKES


included

Hybrid Bike - Standard

More info

Bike rental description

FUJI or Droessiger (or equivalent)



You want a bike for fitness. You want a bike for your first charity ride. And you want it to be fun, and fast. the one that does it all: FUJI or DRÖSSIGER.

Included with your bike rental :

• Pannier rack

• Spare inner tube

• Bike lock

• Bike pump

• Km counter

FUJI

  • Frame : Aluminium
  • Saddle : Oval Concepts
  • Central motion : Shimano Acera 48-36-26
  • Cog Set : 11-32, 9 speed
  • Speed changer : Shimano Altus
  • Brakes : Shimano, disc or V-brake

DRÖSSIGER

  • Frame : Aluminium
  • Saddle : Selle Italia ZOO
  • Central motion : Shimano Deore 48-36-26
  • Cog Set : 11-34, 10 speed
  • Speed changer : Shimano Deore
  • Brakes : Shimano, disc-brake

Note: "Please notice that every bike change during the trip may cause an extra cost."




optional

Electric Assisted Bike - Standard

More info

Bike rental description

Droessiger CTA sport (or equivalent)

The CTA models are the border crossers among everyday bikes. Fully equipped with mudguards, luggage rack and lights, they are ideal for city riding. But they don't stop there; the suspension fork and puncture-proof tyres are an invitation to go on a bike tour. So the Shimano drive helps you to discover new paths and constantly expand your bike radius.

Included with your bike rental :

• Pannier rack

• Helmet

• Spare inner tube

• Bike lock

• Bike pump

• Km counter

  • Frame : Trekking Alu triple butted
  • Engine : Shimano Steps - System
  • Battery : Shimano Steps - System
  • Tyres : Schwalbe Marathon Plus
  • Shifters : Shimano M310
  • Brakes : Shimano Hydraulic - 180 mm Front / 160 mm Rear
  • Range : Eco - 125 km / Normal - 85 km / High - 60 km
  • Accessories : Mudguards, Kickstand, Rear Carrier

Note: "Please notice that every bike change during the trip may cause an extra cost."


optional

Road Bike - Excellence

More info

Bike rental description

BH Quartz (or equivalent)

You're looking for a bike that's aerodynamic, responsive and lightweight. With a geometry that allows a more relaxed position and a stable ride. The Quartz Disc racing bike incorporates a monocoque frame made entirely of carbon fiber using the frame's inner emptying technique.

BH: XS (1,45-1,67 m) - S (1,55-1,70 m) - M (1,65-1,77 m) - L (1,75-1,89 m) - XL (1,85-2,02 m)

Included with your bike rental :

Pannier rack

• Spare inner tube

• Bike lock

• Bike pump

• Km counter

  • Frame Carbon
  • Fork Carbon
  • Groupset Shimano Ultegra
  • Double chainrings 2x11
  • Cassette 50/34 e 11/28 o 11/30
  • Saddle Prologo Kappa RS
  • Wheelset Shimano RS100

Note: "Please notice that every bike change during the trip may cause an extra cost."


optional

Road Bike - Standard

More info

Bike rental description

Droessiger Alu (or equivalent)

Light, agile and above all fast, our racing bikes are tuned for speed. The simple and minimalist frame design is as relevant as the equipment.

sizes Drössiger: 51 - 53 - 55 - 57 - 59 - 61

Included with your bike rental :

• Pannier rack

• Spare inner tube

• Bike lock

• Bike pump

• Km counter

  • Frame Aluminium
  • Fork Carbon
  • Groupset Shimano Ultegra R8000 | 6800
  • Double chainrings 2x11 | 2x10
  • Cassette 50/34 e 11/28
  • Saddle Selle Italia
  • Wheelset Fulcrum Racing Quattro | Racing 5 | Mavic CXP Pro

Note: "Please notice that every bike change during the trip may cause an extra cost."



Details

Included


ACCOMODATIONS

- 7 nights of accommodation in charming hotels with private shower and/or bath

MEALS

- Daily breakfast at each hotel

BIKES

- Hybrid bike rental included

GEAR

- Complimentary Discover France Gear (including water bottle, drawstring bag)
- Guidance Application (phone not provided)

SUPPORT

- Orientation in person with our local guide
- Detailed ROAD BOOK, including detailed maps, touristic information, step by step itinerary and cue sheets
- Comprehensive trip literature
- Technical and emergency support available at all times
- Concierge service available to assist you for your requests during your trip (taxi transfer, restaurant, activities...)

TRANSFER

- All luggage transfers

Not included


  • Airfare and local transfers to and from the trip
  • Lodging before and after the trip
  • Drinks with dinners
  • Some meals are not included in each destination, which gives you the opportunity to explore regional cuisine on your own
  • You will find all information needed with our team support in your Roadbook
  • Wine tastings, entrance fees, tips
  • City tax
  • Anything not mentioned above, under "Rate includes"
  • Multirisk travel insurance

Other questions?

See our FAQs page for answers to common questions.

FAQ

Rates

Tour rates vary based on hotel availability and specific start date

PRICE FROM / PER PERSON
STANDARD HOTEL ACCOMODATION
Double occupancy *
1238 €
Single supplement **
250 €
Solo traveler ***
1749 €

* Please contact us for triple hotel rates. ** Traveling with a group. *** Traveling alone.

Upgrade your bike

From / Per person

Electric Assisted Bike - Standard
253€
Road Bike - Excellence
228€
Road Bike - Standard
190€

CANCELLATION INSURANCE

Cancellation insurance 6%

STANDARD HOTEL ACCOMODATION FROM

Hotel Al Madarig*** - Castellammare del Golfo

The Arabic name of the 3-star Hotel Al Madarig refers to the history of the place. The Arabs, in fact, called Al Madarig (The Stairs) the city of Castellammare del Golfo. What awaits you here is a wonderful holiday in Sicily, where you will find not only a clear sea and uncontaminated beaches, but also a lot of things to do and see in the surrounding area between history, culture and sport.
https://www.almadarig.com/

Hotel Al Madarig*** - Castellammare del Golfo

The Arabic name of the 3-star Hotel Al Madarig refers to the history of the place. The Arabs, in fact, called Al Madarig (The Stairs) the city of Castellammare del Golfo. What awaits you here is a wonderful holiday in Sicily, where you will find not only a clear sea and uncontaminated beaches, but also a lot of things to do and see in the surrounding area between history, culture and sport.
https://www.almadarig.com/

Residence San Domenico- Trapani

Just 100 meters from the port, San Domenico Residence by BADIA NUOVA is in the heart of Trapani's historic center. It offers elegant self-catering apartments with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. The staff offers a warm Sicilian welcome and personalized service. Apartments feature a fully equipped kitchenette and flat-screen satellite TV. Common areas include a free internet point and a sunny terrace, available in spring and summer. San Domenico is surrounded by elegant period buildings, stores and restaurants. Trapani's bus and train station is a 5-minute walk away, while Trapani Airport is 18 km away. It is a 1-hour drive from Palermo.
https://www.sandomenicoresidence.it/

Residence San Domenico- Trapani

Just 100 meters from the port, San Domenico Residence by BADIA NUOVA is in the heart of Trapani's historic center. It offers elegant self-catering apartments with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. The staff offers a warm Sicilian welcome and personalized service. Apartments feature a fully equipped kitchenette and flat-screen satellite TV. Common areas include a free internet point and a sunny terrace, available in spring and summer. San Domenico is surrounded by elegant period buildings, stores and restaurants. Trapani's bus and train station is a 5-minute walk away, while Trapani Airport is 18 km away. It is a 1-hour drive from Palermo.
https://www.sandomenicoresidence.it/

Hotel Viacolvento**** - Marsala

Your home in the heart of the beautiful city of Marsala, where you will live in an exclusive atmosphere, surrounded by natural and architectural wonders. Viacolvento is a period residence that offers the style of a distant past, with high quality services, fine harnesses, furniture inspired by current design trends, which make Viacolvento a unique and unforgettable environment, where you can spend moments to relax and enjoy the taste of a different holiday; an oasis of well-being, located in the heart of Marsala, the city of the Wind, among its yellow blue, azure blue, RossoMarsala, biancosale, verdevigneto
https://www.viacolventomarsala.it/

B&B Cortile Sant'Agostino - Mazara del Vallo

Set in the centre of Mazara del Vallo and 500 metres from the beach, Cortile Sant'Agostino offers a terrace and classic-style accommodation with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. A sweet buffet breakfast is served daily. Rooms at Sant'Agostino all come with flat-screen TVs, tiled floors, and en suite bathrooms with hairdryers and free toiletries.
https://cortile-santagostino-suites-rooms.business.site/

Hotel Admeto**** - Selinunte

Located in a magical, warm and colorful environment reminiscent of the fishing villages of the past, Hotel Admeto will make your stay in Sicily truly unforgettable. Overall, the structure, built on 4 floors, is the perfect union between contemporary design and Made in Italy quality: minimalist style ceramics, high quality fabrics and furniture and meticulous details are distinguished.
https://www.hoteladmeto.it/index-it.php