West Sicily by Bike

Arrival to Palermo airport and transfer to the ancient harbour town of Castellamare del Golfo. There is much to see and do here with its pretty ancient harbour and historic buildings to admire.

Today you cycle north to Scopello and take an optional hike into the Zingaro Nature Reserve. Here you will come across some pretty secluded coves idea for swimming and fabulous views across the Tyrrhenian Sea. On the way back stop off in Scopello and ancient 17^th century coastal hamlet. 

Cycling from Castellammare towards the magnificent archaeological site of Segesta, one of the most important and evocative archaeological sites because of the impressiveness of its temple with its breathtaking sea view. Segesta in the past was a powerful town of the Elimians coming from Turkey, with the Greeks and the Romans during the Punic war. After your visit you continue westwards to Trapani. Trapani is an important port in the region but at the same time, the city enjoys the privileges of a city with baroque churches, museums and shops. Many of the natural wares of the region are for sale here.

Trapani lies nestled close to the sea and ends with two promontories occupied respectively by the “Ligny Tower”, built in 1671 and from which you enjoy a charming view of the town and of the Egadi islands, and by a lazaret, nowadays the seat of the Italian Naval Association local authority.

Today you can visit the medieval village to Erice perched above the city of Trapani. Situated some 750m above sea level! You can decide to reach Erice by bike or by cable car. By bike it is some 11km or hairpin bends but you will be rewarded by some magnificent panoramic views. Of course the route by cable car is somewhat easier! 

Now for a relaxing day on the bike! The panoramic road hugs the sea, where the views are amazing. You will then have the chance to visit the little island of Mozia, this small uncontaminated island, where you will find an archaeological site and a private museum. A short ride now to reach Marsala.  Why not visit one of the specialist producers of the special liquor, the “Marsala”. Marsala’s other claim to fame is as the landing place for Garibaldi and his thousand men (the Mille) on May 11th, 1860. This landing started the chain of events immediately preceding Italy’s unification. Throughout town, you’ll find commemorative plaques and businesses of every description trading under Garibaldi’s name and with his image.

Today you continue south by bike along the coastline of the Tyrrhenian Sea, to Mazara del Vallo the home of one of Italy’s major fishing towns. The town of Mazara del Vallo was founded by the Phoenicians in the 9th century BC, with the name of Mazar (the Rock) it then passed under the control of Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Vandals, Ostrogoths, Byzantines, before being occupied by the Arabs in the year 827 AD. During the Arab period, they constructed an important commercial harbour and centre of learning. The city centre, known as the Kasbah, retains Arab architectural influences. Famous around the world for the stunning bronze statue called the “Dancing Satyr”.

Today is a ride of two halves. Firstly, you will cycle along the coast admiring the amazing views of the Aegadi Islands. Then turning inland, you will cycle among vineyards and olive trees. Selinunte is situated between the valleys of the Cottone and Modione rivers and is widely regarded as one of the most important Greek colonies in Sicily. After cycling, you will relax admiring the archaeology in the most wide-open park in Europe. The archaeological park surrounding Selinunte and its monuments extends about 1.3 km east to west! Lots to see and do.

Depart after breakfast.