Cycle Across Sicily
June 7th - June 16th, 2024
(Custom dates available for groups of 6 or more)
OVERVIEW
ROUTE
Trapani To Catania
DURATON
10 days / 9 nights
DIFFERENT TOWNS
30
MEALS IN SICILY
27
CAFE STOPS ON ROUTE
12 (at least!)
OVERNIGHTS
7 different cities
FINISHING MEDAL
1
TERRAIN
Road / Gravel
TYPE OF BIKE
GRAVEL
DISTANCE
269.2 mi / 432.1 km
AVG. DISTANCE PER DAY
38 mi / 61 km (3-5hrs)
CLIMBING
21,281 ft / 6,486 m
DECENDING
21.404 ft / 6,524 m
PAVED ROADS (est)
259.5 mi /417.6 km
GRAVEL ROADS (est)
9.7 mi / 15.6 km
READY TO RIDE!
HOLD MY SPOT
Upcoming Dates
Custom Dates
INCLUDES
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Accommodations, all 3 and 4 star
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On the bike 7/10 days, 2-6 hours each day
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All meals upon arrival - 9B, 9L, 9D
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Snacks/drinks along route (SAG)
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Bike & helmet
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SPD, Look Delta or flat pedals
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Or bring your own pedals & cleats
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Experienced cycling & ride leaders
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Guides for off bike adventures
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Frame/phone & saddle bag
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Vehicles to support the ride & adventure
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Saturday night post ride party
​​
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​Snorkel gear
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Beach access and accessories
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Online schedule with detailed trip information
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Lead up zoom to answer any questions
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Special event in Caltagirone
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Park entrance fees
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Baggage transfers and porterage
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Airport transfers for Trapani (TPS) & Catania (CTA)
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Add $95 if arriving into Palermo (PMO)
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Non riders welcome too
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Shared photo hub to upload all images
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Bolt (mascot) travels with us 100% of the time
​​
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terrier water bottles (2)
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terrier cycling kit (top & bottom)
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Welcome bag & goodies
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Finisher medal
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12 Week training schedule (Begins March)
ALSO INCLUDED!
Did you know?
Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean.
Schwag!
BIKES
MERIDA
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Frame: SILEX lite;
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Fork: Merida SILEX CF2;
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Saddle: Merida Expert CC;
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Front Brake: Shimano GRX810; Hydraulic disk;
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Rear Brake: Shimano GRX810; Hydraulic disk;
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Gear: Shimano GRX810;
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Stem: MERIDA Expert CW; 31.8 DSH; -8 ASD;
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Derailleur: Shimano GRX810;
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Chain: KMC X11;
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Bottom bracket: Sram Pressfit BB71;
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Wheels: MERIDA Expert CX; 19 IWR; 24 HRI;
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Tyres: Maxxis Razzo; 700x35C; fold; Silkworm.
SILEX 700
(INCLUDED)
TOP STONE E-BIKE
(ADD $200)
CANNONDALE
​
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Frame: SmartForm C2 Alloy, 135mm bolt-on, tapered headtube, flat mount disc, multiple gear/bottle mounts;
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Fork: Full Carbon, 1-1/8″ to 1-1/4″ steerer, 55mm OutFront offset, flat mount disc, internal routing, 12×100 thru axle;
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Saddle: Fizik New Aliante R5, 150mm width, S-alloy rails;
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Brakes: Shimano GRX hydraulic disc, 160mm RT56 rotors;
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Gear: Shimano GRX hydraulic disc;
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Rims: 700 cc;
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Display: Mahle ebikemotion iWoc ONE integrated controller;
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Battery: Mahle ebikemotion X35 250Wh;
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Motor: Mahle ebikemotion X35+ 250W.
ITINERARY
DAY 1 - FRIDAY
Trapani Population: 67,531
Elevation: 10ft /3m
Total Area: 105sq mi / 271sq km
Patron Saint: St. Albert
FOOD INCLUDED
Lunch: At accommodations
Dinner: at restaurant
Snack & Drinks
ARRIVE SICILY
To ensure a smooth arrival to your accommodations, it is highly recommended that you arrive in Trapani as early as possible. Please note that transportation to your accommodations is only included if you arrive in Trapani. If you arrive in Palermo, we will need to arrange additional transportation for you, which will require an extra fee of $95.
Day Events:
- Check In
- Sicilian lunch at accommodations
- Beverages
- Bike & helmet fitting
- Mount pedals & your accessories
- Water bottle distribution
- Kit distribution
- Charge all accessories
- Adaptors provided for charging
- Stretch sessions
- Review week
- Group dinner along the water
- Sleep! You will need it
ABOUT TRAPANI
​
Trapani is the capital of the province of Trapani and a port city located on the western coast of the island. The city is renowned for its stunning architecture, including the Medieval walled city of Erice, and the ancient Greek temples of Segesta and Selinunte. Additionally, the charming fishing village of Marausa is a must-visit destination.
The city also boasts evidence of industrial archeology in the form of windmills and saltworks. The saltworks are situated in the Natural Reserve of Saline di Trapani and Paceco, which is managed by the WWF and is home to a remarkable flora and fauna. Thanks to the Reserve's protection, the activity of saltworkers and salt production have increased, encouraging the return and reproduction of dozens of species of migratory birds, including the pink flamingo. Trapani is also famous for its delicious seafood dishes, colorful markets, and stunning beaches. It is a unique and vibrant city that delights visitors with its Sicilian simplicity.
"Cu nesci arrinesci"
Those who leave their own comfort zone succeed.
Did you
know?
Trapani sea salt is still harvested by hand.
DAY 2 - SATURDAY
Prolouge & Boat Tour
Favignana Population: 4,314
Elevation: 30ft /6m
Total Area: 300sq mi / 120sqkm
Patron Saint: St. Pennino
FOOD INCLUDED
BREAKFAST: At Accommodations
LUNCH: Favignana (Sit down)
DINNER: Restaurant in Trapani
SNACKS & DRINK: Daily
THE DAY
MORNING PROLOGUE
Let’s start with an easy ride from the accommodations to warm up, get to know the group and adjust to your bikes. Our goal is to ensure your comfort, so final adjustments will be made during the ride. We will group you based on your skills to ensure a more personalized experience for each of you.
BOAT TOUR TO FAVIGNANA
Favignana, an island located in the Mediterranean Sea, was known as Aegusa during ancient times. The name Aegusa means “goat island” in Greek. The present name, Favignana, is derived from an Italian name for the foehn wind called Favonio. The Phoenicians established an outpost on the island to use it as a stopping point on their trans-Mediterranean trading routes. However, this came to an end after the defeat of the Carthaginian army during the First Punic War.
"Cu nesci arrinesci"
Those who leave their own comfort zone succeed.
DAY 3 - SUNDAY
Trapani To GibEllina
STAGE #1
Gibellina Population: 4,028
Elevation: 764ft /233m
Total Area: 17.98sq mi / 46.57sq km
Patron Saint: St. Roch
FOOD INCLUDED
BREAKFAST: At Accommodations
1st STOP: M25 (Sit down lunch)
DINNER: Restaurant in Giballina (Sit down)
SNACKS & DRINK: Daily
THE RIDE
DISTANCE: 36.0m / 58.0k
CLIMBING: 2,894ft / 882m
MAX INCLINE: 9.9%
NOTABLE CLIMBS: 2
- 2.8mi / 585ft / 3.5% -- 4.5k / 178m / 3.5%
- 4.4mi / 904ft / 4.1% -- 7.1k / 275m / 4.1%
DESCENDING: 2,192ft / 668m
MAX DECLINE: 13.3%
SPEEDY DECENTS: 2
- 3.6mi / 702ft / 3.6% -- 5.8k / 213m / 3.6%
- 1.6mi / 546ft / 7.1% -- 2.5k / 154m / 7.1%
PAVED: 93%
GRAVEL: 7%
STOPS: 1 at mile 25 / kilometer 40
TOTAL TRIP: 51.0m / 82.0k
THE DAY
A gradual climb as we make our way east. We slowly ascend as we head towards the east. We pass by the salt pans of Trapani, lakes, vast fields, and ancient Sicilian towns. Our final destination is Nuova Gibellina, nestled at the base of Monte Cofano and surrounded by rolling hills and olive groves. This city holds immense historical significance, having been destroyed by a massive earthquake in 1968 and then reconstructed by some of the world’s leading modernist architects. There are several noteworthy attractions in the city, which include the 16th-century San Calogero church, the archaeological museum, and stunning Baroque buildings in the old town.
CITIES ALONG THE ROUTE
Trapani, Ardigna, Vita, Salemi, Gibellina
"Chi apparisci a nui vantaggiu, tanti voti è molestia o disaggiu"
​
What appears to us to be an advantage, is often a nuisance and a pain.
DAY 4 - MONDAY
Giballina To Sambuca Di Sicilia
STAGE #2
Sambuca Population: 5,878
Elevation: 1194ft /364m
Total Area: 37.21sq mi / 496.37sq km
Patron Saint: St. George
FOOD INCLUDED
BREAKFAST: At Accommodations
1st STOP: M14 / K23
2nd STOP: M24.5 / K64
DINNER: Restaurant In Sambuca (sit down)
SNACKS & DRINK: Daily
THE RIDE
DISTANCE: 32.1m / 50.2k
CLIMBING: 3654ft / 1114m
MAX INCLINE: 13.2%
NOTABLE CLIMBS: 5
- 4.3mi / 1096ft / 4.0% -- 7.0k / 334m / 4.0%
- 0.9mi / 344ft / 6.7% -- 1.5k / 104m / 6.7%
- 1.0mi / 223ft / 4.0% -- 1.6k / 68m / 4.0%
- 5.5mi / 1020ft / 3.7% -- 8.9k / 310m / 3.7%
- 1.4m / 400ft / 5.8% -- 2.3k / 121m / 5.8%
DESCENDING: 3235ft / 986m
MAX DECLINE: 11.8%
SPEEDY DECENTS: 3
- 2.8mi / 648ft / 4.3% -- 4.5k / 197m / 4.3%
- 3.7mi / 948ft / 4.8% -- 6.0k / 289km / 4.8%
- 1.6mi / 271ft / 3.3% -- 2.8k / 87m / 3.3%
- 2.8mi / 630ft / 4.4% -- 4.5k / 192m / 4.4%
PAVED: 99%
GRAVEL: 1%
STOPS: 2
- 1st at mile 14 / kilometer 23
- 2nd at mile 24.5 / kilometer 39
TOTAL TRIP: 83.1m / 132.2k
THE DAY
Today is a climbing day as we make our way through the middle of Sicily. Along the way, we will encounter a few steep segments that may challenge our legs but rest assured that at the top of every climb, we will be rewarded with another spectacular vista of the remote Sicilian countryside. Many of the towns we pass are abandoned, yet they are full of history. You will notice many of the $1 homes that you may have heard about in Sicily, so it’s best to bring cash. Who knows, maybe we could even buy a whole town? Would you like to join in?
SAMBUCA DI SICILIA
The origin of the name Sambuca can be traced back to the Arabic name of the castle built by the emir Al-Zabut. The name means “the splendid” in Arabic, which reflects the value of the castle. The castle was built as a fortress to protect the Arabs from their enemies. Some believe that the name was inspired by the elderberry plant, while others think it was derived from the architectural style of the village, which resembles a musical instrument called sambuca - a small harp.
CITIES ALONG THE ROUTE
Gibellina Nuovo, Gibellina Vecchia, Poggioreale, Salaparuta, Santa Margherita Di Belice, Sambuca Di Sicilia
"Molto rumore per nulla"
​
Much Ado About Nothing
DAY 5 - TUESDAY
Sambuca Di Sicilia To AGRIGENTO
STAGE #3
Agriento Population: 59,791
Elevation: 750ft / 250m
Total Area:
94.72sq mi /
245.32 sq km
Patron Saint: St. Gerlando
FOOD INCLUDED
BREAKFAST: At Accommodations
1st Stop: M14 / K22
2nd STOP: M40 / K64
DINNER: Accommodations
SNACKS & DRINK: Daily
Did you know?
There are 1,574 wind
turbines in Sicily.
THE RIDE
DISTANCE: 58.9m / 94.7k
CLIMBING: 4872ft / 1485m
MAX INCLINE: 19.6%
NOTABLE CLIMBS: 9
- 1.8mi / 654ft / 7.2% -- 2.9k / 200m / 7.2%
- 0.8mi / 233ft / 4.8% -- 1.3k / 71m / 4.8%
- 2.5mi / 516ft / 3.5% -- 4.0k / 157m / 3.5%
- 1.0mi / 225ft / 4.6% -- 1.6k / 68 / 4.6
- 2.9mi / 639ft / 4.4% -- 4.6k / 194m / 4.4%
- 0.7mi / 110ft / 2.7% -- 1.2k / 34m / 2.7%
- 0.7mi / 105ft / 2.9% -- 1.2k / 32m / 2.9%
- 0.9mi / 240ft / 4.6% -- 1.5k / 73m / 4.6%
- 1.1mi / 240ft / 3.2% -- 1.7k / 73m / 3.2%
DESCENDING: 5684ft / 1735m
MAX DECLINE: 11.6%
SPEEDY DECENTS: 10
- 1.7mi / 493ft / 5.1% -- 2.7k / 150m / 5.1%
- 2.8mi / 948ft / 6.9% -- 6.0k / 288m / 6.9%
- 0.7mi / 150ft / 3.3% -- 1.1k / 45m / 3.3%
- 0.8mi / 167ft / 4.2% -- 1.3k / 51m / 4.2%
- 1.2mi / 293ft / 4.2% -- 1.9k / 89m / 4.3%
- 2.1mi / 394ft / 4.0% -- 3.3k / 119m / 4.0%
- 2.8mi / 575ft / 3.8% -- 4.5k / 175m / 3.8%
- 1.6mi / 312ft / 3.6% -- 2.6k / 93m / 3.6%
- 0.8m / 168ft / 3.7% -- 1.3k / 51m / 3.7%
- 1.3m / 248ft / 4.9% -- 2.1k / 75m . 4.9%
PAVED: 94%
GRAVEL: 6%
STOPS: 2
- 1st at mile 14 / kilometer 22
- 2nd at mile 40 / kilometer 64
TOTAL TRIP: 142m / 226.9k
THE DAY
Today’s stage is the longest, but it has more downhill than uphill. We will leave central Sicily and head towards the southern coast of the Mediterranean sea. You should expect to encounter some gravel on the way, so patience will be key. The vistas are breathtaking, with vineyards and valleys that have been farmed by the same families for centuries. This region has remained unchanged and is one of the most authentic places you can visit in Sicily.
AGRIGENTO
Agrigento is a beautiful city perched on the hilltops of Sicily’s southwest shore. The city is famous for the historic ruins of the ancient city of Akragas, which are located in the Valley of the Temples. This vast archaeological site houses well-preserved Greek temples that are a must-visit for history enthusiasts. On the outskirts of the modern city, you’ll find the Museo Archeologico Regionale ‘Pietro Griffo’, which features a wide range of artifacts, including a giant male figure known as telamon. Towards the west, you can visit the Scala dei Turchi, a stepped white cliff that offers a stunning view of sandy beaches.
CITIES ALONG THE ROUTE
Sambuca, Sciacca, Ribera, Montallegro,Punta Grande, Porto Empedocle, Agrigento
"Cu mancia fa muddichi" Whoever eats makes crumbs.
DAY 6 - WEDNESDAY
AGRIGENTO
DAY OFF
FOOD INCLUDED
BREAKFAST: Accommodations
LUNCH: At Beach
DINNER: Accommodations
SNACKS & DRINK: Daily
VALLEY OF TEMPLES
The Valle dei Templi or Valley of the Temples, is an archaeological site in Agrigento (ancient Greek Akragas), Sicily. It is one of the most outstanding examples of ancient Greek art and architecture of Magna Graecia and is one of the main attractions of Sicily. The term "valley" is a misnomer, the site being located on a ridge outside the town of Agrigento. Since 1997, the entire area has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The archaeological and landscape park of the Valle dei Templi, with its 1300 hectares, is the largest archaeological park in Europe and the Mediterrain Basin.
SCALA DEI TURCHI
The Scala dei Turchi, also known as the “Stair of the Turks,” is a rocky cliff located near Porto Empedocle. The Scala is made up of marl, a sedimentary rock with a distinctive white color, formed from the tests of planktonic foraminifera. These rocks belong to the Trubi Formation, which is a marine sedimentary unit that was deposited during the Lower Pliocene (Zanclean) age, after the Zanclean flood. The Mediterranean was refilled during this time, after having previously almost completely dried out during the Messinian salinity crisis. The cliffs are situated between two sandy beaches and are a limestone rock formation that resembles a staircase, hence the name.
"Va Eccati"
Go Throw Yourself In the Sea.
DAY 7 - THURSDAY
AGRIGENTO To CALTANISSETTA
STAGE #4
Caltanissetta Population: 62,797
Elevation: 1864ft / 568m
Total Area:
162.10sq mi
421.50sq km
Patron Saint: St. Michael
FOOD INCLUDED
BREAKFAST: At Accommodations
STOP#1: M14 / K22
LUNCH: M30 / K48
DINNER: Accommodations
SNACKS & DRINK: Daily
THE RIDE
DISTANCE: 37.2m / 60.0k
CLIMBING: 4273ft / 1302m
MAX INCLINE: 11.4%
NOTABLE CLIMBS: 5
- 4.1mi / 1148ft / 5.6% -- 6.6k / 349m / 7.2%
- 3.4mi / 813ft / 4.4% -- 5.5k / 247m / 4.8%
- 1.0mi / 155ft / 2.8% -- 1.6k / 47m / 2.8%
- 1.6mi / 373ft / 4.3% -- 2.6k / 114m / 4.3%
- 1.9mi / 385ft / 3.7% -- 3.0k / 117m / 3.7%
DESCENDING: 2703ft / 823m
MAX DECLINE: 7.7%
SPEEDY DECENTS: 6
- 1.5mi / 294ft / 4.1% -- 1.5k / 89m / 4.1%
- 1.2mi / 276ft / 4.4% -- 1.9k / 84m / 4.4%
- 0.7mi / 119ft / 2.7% -- 1.1k / 36m / 2.7%
- 0.7mi / 183ft / 5.0% -- 1.1k / 55m / 5.0%
- 1.4mi / 237ft / 3.1% -- 2.2k / 72m / 3.1%
- 0.7mi / 233ft / 5.3% -- 1.1k / 71m / 5.3
PAVED: 98%
GRAVEL: 2%
STOPS: 2
- 1st at mile 14 / kilometer 24
- 2nd at mile 30 / kilometer 48
TOTAL TRIP: 179.2m / 286.9k
THE DAY
After taking a day off, we face the toughest climbing stage. Consistent effort, relaxed but strong pedal strokes, frequent hydration, and appreciation of the epic stage will be key as we move back into central Sicily.
CALTANISSETTA
Caltanissetta is a city that dominates the entire valley of the river Salso. The city is situated between three hills - Sant’Anna, Monte San Giuliano, and Poggio Sant’Elia - forming a basin that comprises part of the historical center and the southern part of the city. It is the 14th largest municipality in Italy, measured by area, and the sixth highest in Italy by elevation, with an altitude of 568 meters. It is the second-highest elevation in Sicily, after the city of Enna (912 meters). The city’s history dates back to 406 BC when Admiral Nicia of Hamilcar’s siege force from Carthage established a fort at the site, later called Castra Nicia (Fort Nicia).
CITIES ALONG THE ROUTE
Agrigento, Favara, Castrofilippo, Caltanissetta
​
​"Non Ni Manciu Chiacchiri"
I Don't Eat Gossip
DAY 8 - FRIDAY
CALTANISSETTA To CALTAGIRONE
STAGE #5
Caltagirone Population: 62,797
Elevation: 1864ft / 568m
Total Area:
162.10sq mi
421.50sq km
Patron Saint: St. Michael
FOOD INCLUDED
BREAKFAST: At Accommodations
STOP#1: M13 / K21
LUNCH: M30
DINNER: Accommodations
SNACKS & DRINK: Daily
THE RIDE
DISTANCE: 41.0m / 66.0k
CLIMBING: 4240ft / 1292m
MAX INCLINE: 21.2%
NOTABLE CLIMBS: 6
- 1.5mi / 959ft / 11.4% -- 2.4k / 292m / 11.4%
- 0.7mi / 134ft / 3.1% -- 1.1k / 40m / 3.1%
- 3.3mi / 726ft / 3.6% -- 5.3k / 221m / 3.6%
- 0.9mi / 238ft / 6.2% -- 1.4k / 73m / 6.2%
- 1.4mi / 304ft / 3.8% -- 2.3k / 92m / 3.8%
- 1.1mi / 287ft / 4.9% -- 1.7k / 87m / 4.9%
DESCENDING: 4457ft / 1358m
MAX DECLINE: 15.8%
SPEEDY DECENTS: 7
- 0,7mi / 262ft / 6.4% -- 1.1k / 80m / 6.4%
- 2.0mi / 1001ft / 9.4% -- 3.2k / 305m / 9.4%
- 0.9mi / 310ft / 5.8% -- 1.5k / 94m / 5.8%
- 2.8mi / 560ft / 3.5% -- 4.5k / 170m / 3.6%
- 1.7mi / 352ft / 3.3% -- 2.7k / 107m / 3.3%
- 1.3mi / 279ft / 3.7% -- 2.1k / 85mm / 3.7%
- 0.7mi / 316ft / 8.3% -- 1.1k / 96m / 8/3%
PAVED: 93%
GRAVEL: 7%
STOPS: 2
- 1st at mile 13 / kilometer 21
- 2nd at mile 30 / kilometer 48
TOTAL TRIP: 220.2m / 352.9k
THE DAY
This stage of the journey will be challenging, with more climbing and exciting gravel trails. You can expect to have a picnic and enjoy stunning scenery between the two larger Sicilian towns. We will leave early to reach Caltagirone and have time to explore the city.
Caltagirone
A castle was built here by Arabs in 1030. However, it was attacked by Ligurian troops under the Byzantine General George Maniakes. Interestingly, the current dialect still has traces of Ligurian language. The city experienced prosperity during the Norman and Hohenstaufen rule, and became a well-known center for the production of ceramics. Unfortunately, the earthquake of 1693 almost completely destroyed the city. However, many public and private buildings were reconstructed in a Sicilian Baroque style. The city and its surrounding area are now protected by the UNESCO World Heritage program, and boast an impressive array of architectural resources.
CITIES ALONG THE ROUTE
Caltanissetta, Pietraperzia, Barrafranca, San Michele Di Ganzaria, Caltagirone
"Mangiarono Con La Salvietta"
They Ate With Napkins.
DAY 9 - SATURDAY
CALTAGIRONE TO CATANIA
STAGE #6
Catania Population: 311,584
Elevation: 23ft /7m
Total Area: 70.63sq mi / 182.9sq km
Patron Saint: St. Agatha
FOOD INCLUDED
BREAKFAST: Accommodations
STOP#1: Lunch M20 / K32
DINNER: Post-Ride Party
SNACKS & DRINK: Daily
THE RIDE
DISTANCE: 49.0m / 79.2k
CLIMBING: 768ft / 234m
MAX INCLINE: 5.1%
NOTABLE CLIMBS: 0
- NO MORE CLIMBS
- THANK GOODNESS!
DESCENDING: 2556ft / 780m
MAX DECLINE: 9.6%
SPEEDY DECENTS: 1
- 5.0mi / 1000ft / 4.0% -- 8.0k / 304m / 4.0%
PAVED: 93%
GRAVEL: 7%
STOPS: 1 at mile 25 / kilometer 40
TOTAL TRIP: 269.2m / 431.1
THE DAY
On the last day of our journey, we have the easiest stage to ride through. We will be passing through the open planes of east central Sicily and eventually arrive at Catania. This city is located on Sicily’s east coast and lies at the base of the active volcano, Mount Etna. The Greeks from Chalcis founded Catania in the 8th century BC in Magna Graecia. The city has survived many natural disasters, including a catastrophic earthquake in 1169 that almost completely destroyed it. In 1669, a major eruption and lava flow from Mount Etna nearly swamped the city, and it suffered severe devastation from the 1693 Sicily earthquake.
CITIES ALONG THE ROUTE
Caltagirone, Palagonia, Catania
"Cantami suoggira,
sentimi nuora"
Sing to the mother-in-law,
listen to the sister-in-law”
DAY 10 - SUNDAY