Day 1 - Arrive Taormina

Sicily has beckoned seafaring wanderers since the trials of Odysseus were first sung in Homer's Odyssey. The island has been a melting pot of great Mediterranean cultures: first Greek and Roman; then Arab and Norman; and finally French, Spanish and Italian. The evidence lies in the temples of Agrigento and Syracuse, the Monreale Cathedral near Palermo, and the theatre at Taormina. A culture shock to some, Sicily presents an old-world charm that has long since left the mainland. Nothing can beat the feeling of enjoying a sundowner on a warm Taormina evening with the Mediterranean lapping far below you, and the natural light show of Mount Etna playing in front of you as lava continues to roll down, as it has done for millennia.

Upon arrival at Catania airport, you will be welcomed to Italy by your local A&K Guardian Angel as you exit customs into the arrivals hall, and are transferred to your hotel where you will be assisted with check-in procedures.

The San Domenico Palace, A Four Seasons Hotel - Taormina features multiple terraces with clear views of the surrounding waters, as well as Mount Etna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a beach club, lush gardens containing a pool, and several restaurants and bars, including the two-Michelin star restaurant, Principe Cerami. Regarded as one of the most famous hotels in the world, San Domenico Palace welcomed notable guests, including Oscar Wilde, Elizabeth Taylor, and DH Lawrence, among many others. Along with idyllic natural surroundings, Taormina is also home to countless historical attractions, including an ancient Greek Theatre and the Corvaja Palace from the medieval era. The Hotel also includes a state-of-the-art spa with seven treatment rooms, an indoor pool, and a Turkish bath. You can look forward to exceptional service and updated amenities when visiting San Domenico Palace, A Four Seasons Hotel, while enjoying the atmosphere and allure of the hotel’s historic surroundings.

Overnight: San Domenico Palace, Taormina, a FS Hotel

Meal Plan:

Day 2 - Taormina

Perched atop a high cliff, Taormina appears to float above the azure waters of the Bay of Naxos. The air in Sicily’s most glamorous spot is perfumed with the scent of orange and lemon blossoms, and here you find narrow streets full of local colours and flavour. Explore this little corner of paradise as you stroll through Taormina’s main street, Corso Umberto, revealing chic stores and plenty for history buffs. Visit the Greek Theatre, whose unparalleled position offers spectacular views of Mount Etna and the surrounding landscape. Later, continue to the medieval village of Castelmola di Sicilia, amazingly founded on a crag high above Taormina. Castelmola retains its medieval character, layout, and its position, both tranquil and peaceful, offering the perfect spot for enjoying the locally-produced almond wine.

Afterwards, continue to Castello degli Schiavi.

Castello degli Schiavi has been in the limelight because of the place chosen by famous film directors who have filmed scenes of the film: Francis Ford Coppola, preferred this setting for major scenes, like the unforgettable explosion of the car after the wedding, "The Godfather", a masterpiece of the most prestigious awards; Mike White picked this location for the Di Grasso’s tour in The White Lotus.

After your excursion, you are privately transferred back to your hotel. (6 hours, driver and guide).

Overnight: San Domenico Palace, Taormina, a FS Hotel

Meal Plan: B

Day 3 - Mount Etna

This morning, while skies are clearest, head into the fertile lava flow of Europe’s largest active volcano. Your route takes you along the winding, pleasant roads which pass through Etna wine country. Mount Etna dominates much of the landscape and nature of eastern Sicily and from various lookout points, on top of the slumbering giant, it is possible to survey much of the fertile volcanic lowlands covered in almond trees, olive groves, citrus plantations, and rolling vineyards below.

After ascending to 3,000 feet by road, travel by cable car into the heart of the black, lunar landscape, an otherworldly departure from the lush subtropical vegetation of Taormina. Enjoy a stop for lunch with wine tasting at Planeta  winery (upon availability). At the end of the day, you are privately transferred back to your hotel. (8 hours, driver and guide).

Special note: Please dress appropriately. It can be quite cold at higher altitudes, even in the warmer months, and worth wearing layers, a warm jacket, hat, and sunglasses. Good footwear (ideally hiking shoes) is recommended as well as clothes that are easily cleaned due to the black volcanic soil.

Overnight: San Domenico Palace, Taormina, a FS Hotel

Meal Plan: B/L

Day 4 - Isola Bella or Alcantara Gorges

Taormina is one of the most spectacular cities in Sicily, but its crowds and heat can be daunting. Take a break with this half-day on a private luxury yacht in the Bay of Taormina to admire highlights like Isola Bella and the bays of Spisone and Mazzarò,

At the end of your excursion, you are returned to your hotel. (4 hours skipper, private yacht, and return transfer)

Alternative option:

E-Bike Excursion: Discover the Alcantara Valley’s Gorges, Lakes, and Byzantine Heritage (4 hours)

Set off on an e-bike journey through the stunning Alcantara Valley, a captivating natural area in northeastern Sicily where the Alcantara River winds through dramatic gorges and lush Mediterranean landscapes. Formed by ancient lava flows from Mount Etna, the valley is known for its unique geological formations, towering basalt walls, and serene river environment—a rare gem within Sicily’s diverse terrain. Explore the Alcantara Gorges, a natural canyon carved by the river’s powerful currents over thousands of years. Pedal through this striking landscape, where the towering basalt structures rise like organ pipes and fans, creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere. As you follow the river’s path along quiet trails, admire the contrast between verdant forests and the rugged beauty of the volcanic rock.

Venture deeper into the valley to reach the Gurne dell’Alcantara, a collection of sparkling natural pools nestled within the lava stone. These tranquil lakes, set against a dramatic landscape, invite you to pause and take in the serene surroundings. Along the way, stop at the Byzantine Cuba, a rare 8th-century church that blends Eastern and Western architectural styles. As one of Sicily’s most significant Byzantine structures, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s layered history and cultural crossroads. Pedal along ancient paths, savoring the sights, sounds, and scents of this unspoilt region, where every turn reveals another facet of Sicily’s rich natural and cultural heritage. From the roaring gorges to the tranquil lakes, this is a journey through a landscape shaped by both nature and history, offering an authentic experience of the Alcantara Valley’s wonders.

Overnight: San Domenico Palace, Taormina, a FS Hotel

Meal Plan: B

Day 5 - Arrive Noto

Today, you are privately transferred to Noto.

Nestled between olive groves and vineyards, Il San Corrado di Noto is the first boutique resort of its kind in Val di Noto, Sicily's renowned UNESCO World Heritage destination. Once an ancient masseria owned by Prince Nicolaci, it has been thoughtfully converted into an idyllic, all-suite retreat, following a meticulous 3-year transformation. Located just outside Noto, featuring suites and pool villas, the new hotel offers an abundance of space and privacy, paired with discreet service and focus on heritage and wellbeing. The resort is home to two swimming pools, including an expansive 100m long heated pool - one of Sicily’s largest, as well as a spa, a yoga pavilion, a fitness suite, and a tennis court. The resort also operates a private beach club in the summer months which is located a short drive from the property, accessible via a complimentary shuttle service. Each spacious suite is complete with an outdoor patio, while the 1 and 2-bedroom pool villas offer flexible accommodation options for couples, friends, and families. The resort is home to two signature restaurants, Casa Pasta and Principe di Belludia, an upscale dining destination that showcases the region’s seasonal produce. Set to be Sicily’s most desirable boutique resort, Il San Corrado Di Noto is a celebration of Sicilian spirit and tradition in an exceptional destination.

Overnight: Il San Corrado Di Noto

Meal Plan: B

Day 6 - Noto

Explore the architectural treasures of Sicily today. Head to Noto, a Baroque town so rich in heritage and beauty that it has earned UNESCO World Heritage listing. It is called the Capital of the Baroque for its architecture, completely rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake which destroyed the entire town. The city transformed the tragedy into rebirth and art, and reconstructed the buildings in a Baroque style. Discover the stunning architecture of Noto, including its magnificent cathedral. (4 hours, driver and local guide)

In the afternoon relax by the pool at your hotel.

Alternative morning option:

E-Bike Adventure: Noto’s Baroque Splendor and Ancient Origins (5 hours)

Today begin your e-bike journey in the heart of Noto, where the grandeur of Baroque architecture graces every street corner. Navigate the town's iconic avenues and discover the striking churches and palaces that have earned Noto its UNESCO World Heritage status since 2002. Let the stunning facades and ornate details unfold as you ride through this masterpiece of Sicilian Baroque artistry. Pedal your way uphill towards Noto Antica, the original settlement perched high on Mount Alveria. Pass through a tapestry of almond orchards and lush Mediterranean scrub, embracing the rhythm of the countryside before reaching the summit at 400 meters above sea level. Explore the evocative ruins of the once-mighty “Netum,” a town ravaged by the earthquake of 1693, where remnants of imposing walls and caves reveal its strategic importance and long-lost splendor. Continue your ride towards the peaceful hamlet of Testa dell’Acqua, crossing scenic rural paths lined with dry-stone walls and aromatic wild herbs. Breathe in the scents of rosemary, oregano, and sage as you cycle through the unspoilt Iblei landscape. Conclude your adventure back in Noto with a well-deserved reward: a refreshing almond granita in a local café—an authentic taste of Sicily and the perfect finale to an exhilarating day exploring Noto’s timeless beauty and natural wonders. (5 hours biking guide)

Alternative afternoon option: 

Discover Artisans of Aci Trezza and the Timeless Craft of Boatmaking and Decoration (2.5 hours)

Immerse yourself in ancient Sicilian traditions as you journey to Aci Trezza, a village where time pauses amidst the breathtaking azure of the Mediterranean. Witness master craftsmen, the "maestri d'ascia," meticulously shaping wooden boats that have gracefully sailed these waters for millennia. Admire their artistry as they blend the skills of designer, engineer, carpenter, and artist into seamless masterpieces. See how these artisans embellish the boats with intricate designs symbolizing good luck and prosperity. In Aci Trezza, these artists channel their passion into adorning the vessels, preserving Sicily's rich cultural tapestry. Their craftsmanship testifies to the island's enduring spirit and cherished traditions. During the visit, accompany a renowned local painter, an expert in Sicilian cart decoration and historic fishing boats. Observe her at work on a small cart as she unveils the world of symbols, secrets, and techniques that adorn these fascinating modes of transportation. Enhance your experience with a painting workshop led by the artist. Paint with brushes and colors on the side of a life-sized wooden gozzo, engaging with the decorative motifs of maritime tradition and leaving an indelible mark of your visit.

Overnight: Il San Corrado Di Noto

Meal Plan: B

Day 7 - Depart Catania

Today, you will be privately transferred to Catania airport.

Overnight:

Meal Plan: B