Bucolic, pastoral and volcanic Sicily

Experience a unique adventure in a Sicily far removed from the usual clichés. Between sea and land, volcanoes, gorges, countryside and forests, let’s uncover the treasures of this island full of character. Allow yourself to be amazed by the natural wonders, historical gems, and everyday delights of this truly extraordinary land.

Reconnect with your inner child on a story-filled adventure on Mount Etna, explore spectacular canyons, and take a refreshing swim in the heart of nature. Immerse yourself in rural Sicilian life and meet passionate locals committed to celebrating their land. And, for our sheer delight, let’s also embrace the art of Dolce Far Niente!

Day 1: Arrival at Catania – Ragusa (Meals: –D; transport: 1h 30min)

We are welcomed into a charming family-run estate, set in the heart of lush nature. Surrounded by an authentic landscape, we revel in fragrant gardens overflowing with flowers, fruit trees and olive groves. We savour the picturesque, bucolic charm of the place in all its splendour. The unique blend offered by La Villa Dolce Valle invites us to reconnect with ourselves, with others, with the sweetness of life – and above all, with a timeless sense of peace. The swimming pool, a true oasis framed by walls of local stone, is…

Day 2: Ragusa – Bucolic, pastoral and volcanic Sicily (Meals: BLD; transport: none)

This first breakfast beneath the almost-guaranteed sunshine is a true delight. Let’s take the time to savour it all! From sweet and savoury treats to fruits picked straight from the garden, traditional Sicilian specialities and local produce – it’s pure indulgence.
From our accommodation, we set off on foot to explore one of the region’s best-preserved canyons. Its many wonders never fail to amaze us: unique botanical and geological features, ancient mule tracks, and an extraordinarily diverse vegetation…

Day 3: From enchanting coves to a traditional fishing village (Meals: BLD; Transport: approx. 2h45; 3,5-hour walk)

The stunning beaches of south-eastern Sicily are among the wildest on the island. Often adorned with fine golden sand, these seemingly endless stretches can also appear as small bays or secluded crescent-shaped coves.

By car, we set off to discover places of rare authenticity, where history blends seamlessly with the beauty of nature. The nature reserve…

Day 4: A full day of immersion – nature, beekeeping and culinary experiences (Meals: BLD; Transport: approx. 2h)

Start the day gently by the pool with a yoga session – your body will thank you!

A royal breakfast to start the day, followed by time spent with a dedicated farmer and beekeeper, committed to Sicily’s future and the preservation of nature…

Day 5: Relaxing and cultural day (Meals: BL-; Transport: +/- 1h 30min)

Let’s begin the day gently and set off to explore a little-known historic and aristocratic site. Immerse yourself in the history of a Sicily few have glimpsed. Take the time to wander through this sumptuous, romantic setting. The ingenuity of the era reveals much about how life was lived under the summer heat.

Let’s take a moment to pause and enjoy a delicious picnic by the sea…

Day 6: Baroque City – Natural Pool and Ancient Ruins (Meals: BLD; Transport: approx. 2h30; 3-hour walk)

The drive itself is an adventure! Winding roads through Sicilian valleys, sun-scorched fields, and many other Sicilian beauties punctuate this pastoral route.

Let’s follow in the footsteps of the ancient city of Noto, a sort of “medieval Pompeii.” The old town, destroyed by the earthquake that devastated Sicily in 1693, reveals its story to us. Marvel at the remnants of a civilisation buried beneath the ruins, and descend into the heart of an impressive canyon.

Next, let’s take a refreshing dip in a remarkable natural pool…

Day 7: Rural Experiences – Villa Dolce Valle (Meals: BL-; Transport: none; 1-hour walk)

A gentle, blissful day awaits you.
If the first yoga session by the pool left you feeling refreshed, you’re invited to relive that moment of happiness! The pool is always there to rejuvenate and delight you.

As every morning, this is followed by a discovery breakfast, before savouring the art of Dolce Far Niente – the sweet pleasure of doing nothing.

In the late afternoon, let’s head on foot to the nearby Baroque town.

Let’s celebrate our final evening on the terrace of a charming, traditional restaurant in the old town.

Return by car. Overnight stay at Villa Dolce Valle.

Day 8: The Natural Pools of Cava Grande – Palazzolo Acreide (Meals: BL-; Transport: approx. 2h30)

Let’s set off to explore the natural pools of the Cavagrande Cassibile Nature Reserve. Sicilian prehistory unfolds before us in all its glory, and the natural pools offer the perfect spot to relax after a good half-hour walk. It’s an ideal place to enjoy a picnic, take a refreshing dip, and unwind before hitting the road again. In the late afternoon, we’ll discover a charming local town and embrace the art of Dolce Far Niente…

Day 9: Scicli, Modica and the Randello Nature Reserve (Meals: BD-; Transport: 2h)

Let’s visit the charming Baroque towns of Scicli and Modica. Wander through their authentic streets, soak up the Sicilian way of life, savour the famous cannoli, and uncover the secrets behind Modica’s renowned chocolate.

After a hearty meal in these historic surroundings, let’s take a relaxing break on a beach within the Randello Nature Reserve…

Day 10: Discovering Mamma Etna and Tasting Local Specialities (Meals: B–; Transport: approx. 2h30)

Let’s make our way slowly towards the impressive Mount Etna. Giuseppe accompanies us, sharing his experience and delightfully “telling the story” of Etna. We explore breathtaking landscapes and ancient craters of extraordinary beauty.

Optional: a full day on Mount Etna, including the exploration of a lava tunnel, is available. For seasoned hikers, a complete ascent to the summit craters promises an unforgettable experience.

Later, we’ll meet a local winemaker and gain insight into his daily life. This guided visit (optional: approx. €75 per person) to one of the region’s finest wineries is paired with a tasting of delicious Sicilian specialities…

Day 11: Exploring Ortigia and Syracuse (Meals: B–; Transport: approx. 1h30)

Let’s discover Syracuse, and Ortigia in particular, from a different perspective. We’ll head to the heart of Ortigia, choose a trattoria that appeals to us, enjoy an exquisite lunch, and then spend the afternoon wandering at leisure, letting our curiosity guide us.

At the end of the day, let’s not miss a stroll along the lungomare or around the Plemmerio site, and soak up the serene beauty of a magnificent sunset…

Day 12: Transfer to Catania Airport (Meals: B–; Transport: approx. 45 min)

Final moments in this magical place, on this enchanting island, before our journey back home. Free time depending on our flight schedule, followed by a transfer by bus to Catania Airport.

Trip Extension

This 12-day programme offers a wonderful insight into the treasures of the island, its rich history, and its diverse, enchanting landscapes.

We can only recommend that travellers extend their stay by at least three days — and why not double it? If that’s not possible, then you’ll simply have to return to this fabulous island, with your heart full of joy!

Additional Days:

• The stones and nature of Pantalica – Vallée dell’Anapo
• Between Baroque Sicily and magical walks and swims
• The famous Villa Casale in Piazza Armerina
• The Ceramics of Caltagirone
• The Alcantara Gorges
• The Vibrant Spirit of Taormina
• The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento
• Unique Spots for Hiking Enthusiasts
• Sites Dedicated to the Preservation and Conservation of Biodiversity
• …

Multi-Day Extension:

• The Aeolian Islands: following in the footsteps of Stromboli
• Trekking and Exploring the Madonie Mountains (see programme)
• Immersion in the Nebrodi Park
• Unexpected, the Madonie Mountains (see programme)
• …