Treasures of Sicily

Welcome to Viagrande, a traditional Catanian village with a privileged view of Mount Etna. From its lofty position above the sea, it offers views of Mount Etna. The current old town centre was founded in 1408 but the first settlement here was founded under Greek rule. The ancient Roman road that led to Messina gives the name to the village (Viagrande means big road). Depending on the arrival time of the group, we have a welcome briefing at the hotel either this evening or tomorrow morning; a great chance to meet your tour leader and the rest of the group. Stay: Grand Hotel Villa Itria (or similar).

After breakfast we enjoy a spectacular guided walk on Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe. We hike past several old lava flows to be rewarded with a dramatic panorama of the volcanic landscape and old craters (one to two hours' walking, 3. 1mi/5km). You are strongly advised to take a waterproof/windproof jacket, a warm top and to wear long trousers (pants).

In the afternoon, we enjoy a wine-and-cheese tasting in one of the most-celebrated cellars in the area. Stay: Grand Hotel Villa Itria (or similar) (B).

This morning we drive to Syracuse (approximately 1hr 15min drive), the most powerful city-state in the ancient Greek world and briefly the capital of the Byzantine empire. Here we visit the superb Neapolis Archeological Park, home to a spectacular Greek theatre and well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, accompanied by a local guide.

In the afternoon we drive to our next destination, the Unesco World Heritage site of Noto (approximately 45 mins), a beautiful town built in the Sicilian baroque style using honey-coloured stone. Stay: Hotel Flora (or similar) (B).

After breakfast we drive to the hilltop town of Ragusa Ibla (approximately 90 minutes), a maze of winding streets with remarkable baroque churches, and continue on to Agrigento (2hr 30min). Here we enjoy a guided visit of the Valley of the Temples: the Temple of Juno; the Temple of Concorde, one of the most well-preserved doric temples in the ancient Greek world; the Temple of Hercules; and the Temple of Castor and Pollux. Stay: Hotel Della Valle (or similar) (B).

Our day starts with a transfer to Selinunte (90 minutes) to explore one of the most important archeological sites in the Mediterranean, set high overlooking the sea. We then move on to the mountaintop village of Erice (90 minutes), and stop en route for a view of the Mozia salt flats, which are dotted with characteristic windmills (time permitting). Once in Erice, we have time for a stroll through its narrow streets and will try the best almond biscuits on the island. We stay overnight in the town of Buseto Palizzolo or Trapani. Stay: Baglio Fontana or B&B Trapani Crystal (or similar) (B).

This morning head to the coast to explore the idyllic Mediterranean landscape on foot. Stretching along the coast for 4. 3mi (7km) between the lovely village of Scopello in the east to San Vito Lo Capo in the west, the Zingaro Nature Reserve has walking trails with views out to the cliffs and the glistening sea, hidden coves and pristine beaches.

We take a leisurely walk for up to three hours (including stops) along beautiful coastal trails, with the opportunity of a quick swim before returning to the bus. In the afternoon we make our way to Palermo (approximately 1hr 30min) where we can enjoy time at leisure to discover the vibrant historic centre and lively streets filled with restaurants and bars. Stay: Hotel Posta or Hotel B&B Quattro Canti (or similar) (B).

After a short transfer to Monreale (approximately one hour), we visit its extraordinary cathedral, considered the greatest example of Norman architecture in the world. We then head to Palermo (approximately one hour) where our local guide will show us the most important sites in this beautiful city, including Quattro Canti, Pretoria Square, the cathedral and Marina Square.

In the afternoon, we have free time in Palermo to enjoy this eclectic city at our own pace. Stay: Hotel Posta or Hotel B&B Quattro Canti (or similar) (B).

This morning we drive to the fishing village of Cefalu (approximately 1hr 15min), where we visit the impressive cathedral, home to elaborate Byzantine mosaics, and the lovely historic centre with its winding medieval streets. Our tour ends in one of the most renowned treasures of Sicily: the charming town of Taormina (approximately 2hr 40min drive). We have time to visit its Greek theatre and enjoy the spectacular views of Mount Etna and the sea. Stay: Hotel Villa Esperia (or similar) (B).

Enjoy your final breakfast of this Sicilian adventure, a perfect opportunity to reflect on the many wonders of this Italian island. Once you're full, it's time to start your return journey home (B).