An exclusive wine & food journey with
Splendid Sicily
April 24 - May 1, 2022
SOLD OUT / WAITLIST ONLY
12-24
Guests
8 / 7
Days / Nights
17
Meals
Join Justin Wylie as you savor the wine and cuisine of this amazing Mediterranean island, bursting with ancient ruins, olive groves, and charming villages known for their Baroque architecture. Succumb to the allure of the Sicilian breeze and discover the magnetic people, dramatic landscapes, and cultural traditions that are waiting to be explored.
Explore
Mount Etna, Europe's largest active volcano, where fabulous local wines are produced
Taste
a variety of Sicilian specialties, from the Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG to the internationally known chocolate of Modica
Visit
beautiful villages overlooking the sea, ancient Greek monuments, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Day 2
Val di Noto
Today meet a local producer of the famous Pachino's tomato. We'll learn about its proudction and taste this delicious gift of the land that made Italian sauces famous the world over. From there, a scenic drive through the countryside of Noto and Syracuse takes us to a local winery for lunch. Taste some of the ancient wines of Italy and renowned wines of Sicily, such as Nero d'Avola and Moscato di Noto and Syracuse.
This afternoon, we visit Noto, designated along with 7 other towns in the Val di Noto area as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Meander through the charming streets of the Old Town with a local guide, admire the elegant Baroque buildings for which Noto is known, and enjoy dinner in one of the town's eateries before heading back to our accommodations.
Day 3
Ragusa & Modica
This morning, head to Ragusa and meet a local chef who will introduce you to authentic Sicilian recipes. Stroll the food market to buy the ingredients for today's hands-on cooking class. Then, feast on your creation for lunch.
Later, visit a local winery to discover and taste the Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG with its typical cherry-red color and fruit-rich fragrance. Stop in Modica, known for its exquisite baroque architecture and high-quality chocolate, and visit a laboratory where the internationally-known IGP chocolate is produced before returning to the property for dinner.
Day 4
Charamonte Gulfi-Palazzolo Acreide
Today we discover the small hidden villages of the region. Start with a visit to the 17th century agricultural estate of Villa Fegotto, which has been the setting for numerous Italian cinema productions. Next we visit an olive oil mill where generations have been dedicated to the cultivation of olive trees and production of award-winning Monti Iblei DOP extra virgin olive oil. We'll continue on to Chiaramonte Gulfi, a small village known as the "balcony of Sicily" for its sweeping views of the mountains, valleys, and sea. Explore the town with a local guide and enjoy some free time to wander and have lunch.
In the afternoon, we'll join a local guide to visit the off-the-beaten-track village of Palazzolo Acreide, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tucked away in the Iblei Mountains, the town has an extensive history dating back to the ancient tribes of Sicily. From there, we'll visit a winery in the Marzamemi area for a wine tasting dinner before returning to our accommodations.
Day 5
Syracuse
Say farewell to the enchanting Val di Noto and head north to the seaside city of Syracuse, which once rivaled Athens in culture and economic power. Meet a knowledgable local guide to explore the ancient island of Ortigia, widely considered one of the most beautiful destinations in Sicily and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its "remarkable testimony of the Mediterranean cultures over the centuries.” We'll visit the cathedral and the Temple of Apollo ruins that date back to the 6th century B.C., where we'll meet a local artisan who creates hand-made pupi. Learn about the Sicilan marrionette theater, opera dei pupi, that has been a traditional form of entertainment since at least the 15th century. After, enjoy free time to venture down the winding streets and find a spot for lunch.
This afternoon, head to our accommodations on the slopes of Mount Etna where we'll gather for dinner in the evening.
Day 6
Mount Etna
Today we explore Europe's largest active volcano, Mount Etna, which dominates Eastern Sicily. From the south side base station at Rifugio Sapienze, take a short cable car ride up the mountain and enjoy the panoramic views escorted by an alpine guide. Then, continue to a winery on the slopes of this legendary volcano and behold a fascinating lava landscape forged by countless eription. Taste the fabulous local wines during a wine-paired lunch before returning to the our accommodations for a relaxing afternoon. Dinner tonight will be at a nearby agriturismo.
Day 7
Taormina
This morning we visit the popular and fashionable resort town of Taormina perched on a high slope overlooking the Ionian Sea. Join a local guide on a walk through the city and learn about its colorful history and medieval treasures— tour the impressive Greek theater built in the third century BC and surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery and wander through the medieval main street. Then, enjoy the unique experience of a traditional home-hosted lunch with a Sicilian family. Later, return to our accommodations to relax before our festive farewell dinner at the property.
Day 8
Catania
Enjoy an early breakfast before checking out. Take a private transfer to Catania-Fontanarossa Airport for flights home. Arrivederci!
Not ready to say good bye? Join the private transfer to Catania-Fontanarossa Airport where we will board a flight to Naples for the Amalfi Coast Extension.
Day 9
Pompeii & Amalfi
Fly to Naples where our driver will pick us up and take us to a winery at the base of Mount Vesuvius for lunch and a wine tasting. In the afternoon, we'll enjoy a private tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-designated Archeological Area of Pompeii, a city frozen in time when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, preserving the area in a thick layer of ash. Venture into this splendid and haunting city to see its frescoed villas and get a rare glimpse of daily life nearly 2,000 years ago. After this visit, we'll check into our hotel in the heart of Amalfi and have dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 10
Amalfi & Ravello
This morning, discover charming Amalfi— once one of Italy's four great maritime republics— with a local guide and see its impressive cathedral. Lunch will be at leisure before we continue on to the medieval village of Ravello: explore centuries of history, art, and folklore at Villa Rufolo, an architectural gem famed for its elegant cascading gardens. Wind down the day with a tour and tasting at a traditional lemon farm.
Day 11
Capri
Today we take an approximately 1-hour ferry ride across the Bay of Naples to the island of Capri, celebrated for its natural beauty since the time of the Roman Empire. Join a guide on a walking tour of old town Capri and browse the charming boutiques. After lunch at leisure, explore the stately villa and gardens of San Michele before returning by boat to Amalfi.
Accommodations
La Corte del Sole
Enjoy this fully renovated 19th-century farmhouse perched on a hill overlooking the Vendicari Nature Reserve. The property offers a peaceful setting surrounded by panoramic views of the countryside. It features an outdoor pool, restaurant and bar, terraces, and gardens showcasing the herbs and scents of the Mediterranean. Rooms offer free Wifi, air conditioning, minibar, safe, toiletries, and hair dryer.
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Cavanera Wine Resort
Surrounded by vineyards, this Sicilian wine estate on the lower slopes of Mount Etna is equipped with all the modern comforts. The property features a restaurant and wine bar, outdoor pool, fitness room, and beautiful views of the lush green vineyards. Room amenities include minibar, coffeemaker, safe, Wifi, air conditioning, toiletries, and hair dryer.
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Hotel Marina Riviera (Amalfi Extension)
Overlooking picturesque Amalfi, this boutique hotel has been hosting visitors since the days of the Grand Tour. Built into the cliffs with a view of the Mediterranean Sea, the property is located just a short walk down the hill to the beach and the town of Amalfi. Features of the property include a roof terrace with panoramic views, a heated pool, restaurant, bar, free WiFi, and air conditioning. Rooms feature sea views, hairdryer, toiletries, robe, and slippers.
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The Fine Print
Questions? Get in touch.
Details
Dates
Flight Information
Activity Level
This trip has been designed to include daily exploratory walks that range from one to three hours. Each day, whether touring a city or winery, guests should be prepared to be on their feet for multiple continuous hours. Guests should feel comfortable strolling along cobbled surfaces, walking up and down stairs, and sauntering down uneven nature paths. Europe tends to have Old World infrastructure (narrow cobblestone streets, lack of elevators, etc.) which can leave some areas inaccessible — if you require any walking assistance, please inquire with our guest services team. Typically, our more invigorating walks are included as optional activities. Please contact us at guestservices@experi.com if you have questions.
Note: Group maximum is based on double occupancy. The itinerary is subject to change or substitution at any time. You can learn more at experi.com/terms.
Included
- Seven nights accommodations, including all taxes and fees
- Meals as listed on the itinerary: 7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 6 dinners, plus wine pairings with most major meals
- All private excursions described in the itinerary along with services of local speakers, guides, entrance fees, gratuities, and transportation
- Full guiding services of a dedicated travel director
- Private airport transfers with porterage on the first and last scheduled days of the program
- Amalfi Extension rate includes flight from Catania to Naples
Not Included
- Pre-and post-trip accommodations and associated expenses
- Air and land transportation to/from host cities
- All types of personal insurance
- Personal expenses
- Additional alcoholic beverages beyond what has been arranged by Experi to pair with the included major meals
Rates*
Classic: $4,895 WAITLIST ONLY
Jr. Suite: $5,095 WAITLIST ONLY
Single Occupancy: $5,995 WAITLIST ONLY
Extension*
Classic: $2,995 WAITLIST ONLY
Jr. Suite: $3,295 WAITLIST ONLY
Single Occupancy: $3,995 WAITLIST ONLY
*Rates are per person, double occupancy (except Single Occupancy rates), in US Dollars.
Deposits
Travel Insurance
Travel Terms & Conditions
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