Sicily Luxury Tours, Italy
An extraordinary insider journey to Sicily and the Aeolian Islands
Palermo | Agrigento | Noto | Taormina | Aeolian Islands
From Greek temples and Byzantine facades to Roman arches, Norman churches, and Baroque palaces, Sicily harbors a fascinating history; 11 civilizations have left their mark throughout this enchanting island. Bask in family-driven traditions and local culinary excellence, bike through quaint villages, swim in the turquoise waters of the Aeolian Islands, and hike through the ancient trails that reveal breathtaking views of active volcanoes. Sicily is a world on its own and waiting to transport you back in time.
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The island’s strategic position in the middle of the Mediterranean brought various invaders, including the Phoenicians, the Carthaginians, the Greeks, the Romans, the Saracen Arabs, the French, and the Spanish Bourbons. As a result, there is a vast range of architectural styles in Palermo and an intriguing fusion of ingredients used in many local dishes. Palermo’s historical highlights include the Baroque “Quattro Canti” square, which divides the four main areas of the old town. Nearby, visit the Piazza Pretoria, home to the “fountain of shame.” The fountain, decorated with sculptures of nude nymphs, humans, and mermaids, was considered too risque for the Tuscan Villa owned by a Spanish Viceroy, so it was sold to Palermo. Palermo is also home to the largest theater in all of Italy, Teatro Massimo Vittorio Emanuele, which is famous for its excellent acoustics.
Agrigento is home to the remarkable Valley of the Temples, an exceptionally well-preserved group of eight Doric Greek temples that date between 510 and 430 BC. Out of the eight temples at this UNESCO Heritage site, the Temple of Concordia is in the best condition and is only surpassed in quality by the Parthenon itself. During its heyday, Agrigento was immense in both size and economic power. In addition to temples, travelers will also find Kolymbethra Gardens, where ancient olive trees thrive and citrus fruits flood the area with their perfumes. Guests can enjoy a private picnic in these enchanting gardens after exploring the temple ruins. Nearby, visit Scala dei Turchi, or “Stair of the Turks,” a dazzling white cliff rising 50 meters above the blue waters of the Mediterranean. Natural erosion has carved the cliff into fascinating staircase-like ridges, which gave it its name.
Known for the stunning late Baroque buildings within its eight towns, the Baroque Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site. After the cities were destroyed by an earthquake in 1693, they were painstakingly redesigned and rebuilt in ornate late Baroque style. With the city of Noto as your base, enjoy biking through the picturesque Sicilian countryside. Ragusa, is said to be one of Sicily's most picturesque towns - both the old and new parts of this town are inhabited, and the view from the new post-earthquake section, Ragusa Superiore, over the old area, Ragusa Ibla, is simply stunning. Modica is yet another exquisite town in the Baroque Valley. It offers a beautiful juxtaposition of original medieval buildings against late Baroque structures that were built after the earthquake. In this delightful old city, travelers can also indulge in a private chocolate tasting.
An iconic destination since the 18th century, Taormina boasts ancient Greek splendor, medieval charm, and unique views of Mount Etna and the Ionian coast. Built into a hillside in the 3rd century BC, Teatro Greco is one of the oldest theatres in the world, and visitors can still enjoy live performances. Although still a very active volcano, Mount Etna offers excellent opportunities for outdoor adventures. Explore the remains of lava flows, caves, hotel ruins, and a hike with breathtaking views along some of the smaller craters. Thanks to the Etna volcano, this area also has rich soils, excellent for agriculture and vineyards. Enjoy a private wine tasting of the unique wines produced from the volcanic soil and a tour of a vineyard at the foot of the volcano.
Dotting the cerulean seas off of Sicily’s northeastern coast, the Aeolian Islands are some of the most beautiful in all of the Mediterranean. These volcanic islands have rich soil, giving them lush green vegetation that contrasts with the dramatic cliffs and active volcanoes. Of the seven main islands, verdant Salina will be your base. Guests can arrive from Sicily by private helicopter and enjoy a comfortable stay at a luxury hotel along the sea. The lush greenery of the hills and mountains covered in wild capers and evergreens at higher elevations provide spectacular hiking opportunities with rewarding vistas, especially from the highest point of the island at Monte Fossa delle Felci. Neighboring Stromboli Island is famous for its very active volcano, which adventurous travelers can climb to about 1,000 feet with an expert guide! Enjoy the sun and blue waters from a private boat as you navigate past impressive volcanic formations to visit secret swimming spots that are only accessible from the sea.