Sicily: Biking the Southern Coastal Villages​

Hotel Ai Cavalieri is a beautiful, classic building situated in the commercial center of Palermo, a few meters from the historical area of the city. Guests here are just a few steps from Teatro Massimo and Politeama theaters and close to all major attractions. The famous markets of Capo and Vucciria are also nearby. The hotel features a wine bar. Near the hotel, you’ll find lots of shopping opportunities, cafes, restaurants and the famous Sicilian pastry shops.

Located in the countryside five miles from Syracuse, in the midst of the Cyane River and saline natural reserve, the Hotel Borgo Pantano is surrounded by lemon and orange groves. The complex opened in 2010 after a long renovation and maintains the architectural features of its origins. The owner is an art lover and collector and put her personal touch into every little detail. The result is a refreshing combination of modern furniture and ancient objects. Lots of wood and local stone have been used to make every space warm and infused with local flair. An incredible lake-shaped swimming pool is available in the large smelling garden.

Wonderfully located on a hill blanketed with carob and olive trees, vineyards, and orange groves, the Kallikoros offers sweeping views from its panoramic sun terrace. A large swimming pool fed by an ancient water reservoir, a luxurious spa, an elegant restaurant featuring local specialties, and comfortable rooms with large showers make for a very enjoyable stay. Local stone was used for the 2006 renovation and reconstruction of the property. Walking paths line the estate, where the hosts and chef organize excursions to pick wild fennel, borage, orange and lemons to use for our cooking class.

The Hotel Livingston Relais Spa is wonderfully located in Ortigia, Syracuse, right on the sea. It provides the only access to the sea (via Forte Vigliena) from the city center of Syracuse. In the summer you can enjoy a swim in the clear blue water of the Ionian Sea. The hotel is within walking distance of the main monuments and Main Square. It is a small refined hotel with a rooftop restaurant where breakfast is served, and from where you can enjoy the view of the sea while sipping your coffee. Each bathroom has a jacuzzi shower or bathtub. A small but well equipped in-house spa is available for our guests.

The Poggio del Sole Resort is an accurate restoration of a residence of the 1800’s. Its rural annexes, the master house, food provision store, barn, stables and guest rooms all reflect the era. Still, it is a modern and very comfortable facility set in the quiet Hyblean countryside outside of town. Its large outdoor swimming pool, jacuzzi and sun terrace with open views of the countryside are ideal for relaxation after pedaling. The hotel features two restaurants, one informal hosteria with a traditional stone oven, and one for gourmets. The lounge bar Maizé is open to the public and is a lively place for a drink in the evening. The complex also features a wine cellar full of typical local wines and a small spa offering massages and treatments.