Ancient Sicily Hiking
ITALY
2016 TRIP ITINERARY
TRIP DATES May 14-21, 2016 September 10-17, 2016
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THE WORLD’S GREAT ADVENTURES A passion for travel. Simply put, we love to travel, and that infectious spirit is woven into every one of our journeys. Our staff travels the globe searching out hidden-gem inns and lodges, taste testing bistros, trattorias, and noodle stalls, and discovering the trails and plying the waterways of each remarkable destination. When we come home, we separate wheat from chaff, creating memorable adventures that will connect you with the very best qualities of each destination. Unique, award-winning itineraries. Our flexible, hand-crafted journeys have received accolades from the world’s most revered travel publications. Beginning from our appreciation for the most breathtaking and interesting destinations, we infuse our journeys with the elements of adventure and exploration that stimulate our souls and enliven our minds. Whether you are looking for a challenging physical expedition or a leisurely cultural exploration, Boundless Journeys has exceptional itineraries to match your sense of adventure. Insider connections. There is simply no substitute for traveling with a knowledgeable insider, and our expert local guides will open doors for you that other travelers miss, like dinner with their extended family in Peru’s Sacred Valley, or meeting a sacred Yi shaman in the hinterlands of China’s Yunnan province. Relationships developed over many years allow you to experience our destinations through a well-connected friend. Small groups. Although the camaraderie of a group of like-minded travelers often enhances the journey, there can be too much of a good thing! We tread softly, and our maximum group size is just 16 guests, allowing us access to opportunities that would be unthinkable with a larger group. Flexibility to suit your travel style. We offer both scheduled, small-group departures and Private Collection tours, so that you can choose which works best for you. Not finding exactly what you are looking for? Let us customize a journey to fulfill your travel dreams. Customer service that goes the extra mile. Having trouble finding flights that work for you? Want to surprise your traveling companion with a bottle of champagne at a tented camp in the Serengeti to celebrate an important milestone? There is no request that is too big – or too small – for our staff to handle. From your first call, we guide you through choosing your trip, provide advice on preparing for your adventure, and hold your hand (and your bags) until you return home.
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Ancient Sicily Hiking
ITALY
The largest island in the Mediterranean Sea,
The Journey. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Sicily boasts a diverse and historic culture
Journey at a Glance. . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
dating back to ancient times. Known as
What’s Included . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
“Trinacria” to the early Romans due to its triangular shape, Sicily has become a haven
Accommodations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
for refreshing cuisine, historical preservation,
What to Expect. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
and breathtaking archeological sites. Our
Trip Leaders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
adventure unfolds as we leave the bustle of
Next Steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Palermo and head to the countryside where we spend our days walking the historic hilltops of Erice, the Iato Valley, Castelbuono,
Cobblestone streets in Erice
Boundless Beyond. . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Caltabellotta, and Cefalù. Our journey is accented with tastings from the surrounding vineyards, insight into Sicilian gastromony, and the continued ornament of the countryside by the Normans’ magnificent architecture. HIGHLIGHTS • Daily walks above the turquoise sea, through lemon groves, and past cliff-top gardens • Exploring fascinating medieval villages and impressive Norman cathedrals on foot • Ancient Greek and Roman ruins in beautiful settings • Exciting Mediterranean cuisine, fine wines, and deluxe accommodations
“What more is there to say, this trip can only be described in one word . . . fantastico!” — L.F., Lexington, MA
DETAILS DURATION
8-day trip begins in Palermo and ends in Taormina, Sicily ACCOMMODATION 7 nights in charming accommodations with beautiful views GROUP SIZE 2-16 guests TRIP RATING 1 2+ 3 4 5 Easy . . . . . . . . . . . Strenuous
(See page 10 for more details)
LAND COST
$4,895 per person SINGLE SUPPLEMENT First two reserved on each departure: $325*; Additional singles: $825 *Must reserve at least 120 days ahead. 800-941-8010 • www.boundlessjourneys.com
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THE JOURNEY DAY 1 Archeological Park of Segesta; transfer to Erice Walk – easy, 3 hours, along trails and country roads; approximately 4 miles. Drive time approximately 1.5 hours. En route to the medieval city of Erice, our journey unfolds in the Archeological Park of Segesta. While its magnificent Doric temple is impressive, it is just one of the many highlights of this large outdoor museum. The semicircular theater, from which a vast and scenic panorama can be seen to the north, boasts a hilltop position on Mount Barbaro second to none. Pastries on the trail. Indulging in local pastries on the trail.
“Our guide, Alex Gullo, is the most knowledgeable, fun, and caring guide who showed us the best parts of Sicily. We experienced everything as ‘insiders’ rather than as tourists.” — J.S., Hilton Head,
After taking in this spectacular site of antiquity, we continue to the mountaintop city of Erice, where a cable car brings us the final stretch into town. We enjoy a late day walk along the cobblestone streets, and perhaps allow the aromas of neighborhood pastry shops entice us inside. This evening we enjoy our first dinner together, and toast to our week ahead. Hotel Elimo, Erice (Meals: L, D)
DAY 2 Monte Cofano Nature Reserve; transfer to Menfi Walk – easy to moderate, 4-5 hours, along country roads and trails; approximately 6 miles. Drive time approximately 30 minutes. Today’s excursion brings us to the Monte Cofano Nature Reserve, offering miles of pristine coastline set against steep mountains. Our walk immerses us in one of Italy’s most beautiful coastal areas, now protected from future development. Here, classic Mediterranean vegetation flourishes in a profusion of yellow broom, rosemary, and capers above a turquoise sea. We explore the coastline on foot, and weather permitting, take a swim in the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Hiking in Monte Cofano Nature Reserve.
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After our invigorating hike along the coast, we stop for lunch, and perhaps a refreshing granita (Italian slush), before continuing to La Foresteria, our home for the next two nights. Here we are enchanted by herb gardens, vineyards, locally-produced wine, and unparalleled Sicilian gastronomy.
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THE JOURNEY continued This evening we enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant. La Foresteria, Menfi (Meals: B, L, D)
DAY 3 Caltabellotta Walk – easy to moderate, 3-4 hours, along country roads and trails; approximately 5.5 miles. Drive time approximately 2 hours. This morning we arrive in Caltabellotta, one of the oldest hilltop villages in Sicily. Its uniquely prominent position on Mount Kratas has made it a significant and strategic place for more than 2,000 years. Fought over, dominated, and destroyed over the years, Caltabellotta has always managed to regenerate itself. Here we enjoy a 5-6 mile walk with spectacular views of the sea and mountains.
A BOUNDLESS MOMENT IN SICILY
In the kitchen at La Foresteria, the chef sends soft plumes of flour into the air as he kneads and rolls, creating delicate, even shapes with his hands. Before him is a still-life painting of Sicilian bounty: ruby tomatoes and dark, shiny eggplants; ceramic bowls of green olives and hard-boiled eggs, bouquets of parsley and basil, and bottles of the estate’s own Fiano wine, grown and harvested in the surrounding countryside.
After our walk we are rewarded with a visit to a local restaurant, where artisan-crafted pasta delights our senses. Following lunch we may choose to stretch our legs with a relaxing walk through the vineyards surrounding our hotel, or along the pristine beaches of the Mediterranean Sea. We reconvene in the kitchen of our hotel, where we discover the secrets of Sicilian cooking with a demonstrative lesson using seasonal ingredients. Dinner tonight is al fresco on our hotel terrace. La Foresteria, Menfi (Meals: B, L, D)
DAY 4 Selinunte Archeological Park; Transfer to Castelbuono
Hand-twisting Busiate pasta.
Walk – easy to moderate, 2-3 hours, along trails; approximately 4 miles (optional afternoon walk, 2 miles). Drive time approximately 3.5 hours. This morning we visit Selinunte, the largest archeological park in Europe, with extraordinary Greek temples and the remains of one of the largest cities in western Sicily. After visiting this site of antiquity, we drive to our hilltop resort, Relais Santa Anastasia. From here we enjoy a spectacular view of the medieval village of Castelbuono, and many acres of vineyards and olive groves. This afternoon, we enjoy a walk through the vineyards and a tour of the Abbazia Santa Anastasia Winery, known for its biodynamic approach to winemaking. 800-941-8010 • www.boundlessjourneys.com
Meals are a culinary and cultural experience.
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THE JOURNEY continued Tonight, we dine together at our hotel restaurant, Corte dell’Abate, where we are treated to fresh Mediterranean cuisine. Relais Santa Anastasia, Castelbuono (Meals: B, L, D)
DAY 5 Madonie Mountains Walk – moderate, 2-3 hours, along country roads and trails; approximately 3 miles. Drive time approximately 45 minutes.
Men gather in the streets of Castelbuono.
“We had a wonderful tour of Sicily, thank you. Gianni is a great guide - he certainly knows his history and his food! And now, so do we. The hotels were great and the places we stayed were perfect.” — R.O., New South Wales, Australia
Our morning hike in the interior Madonie Mountains reveals Sicily’s deeply rustic culture. Interior Sicily is a completely different world, and to many Sicilians, it’s the “true” Sicily of tiny mountain villages, farms, shepherds, and fresh-made cheeses. After our morning hike in the countryside, we enjoy a lunch at a favorite local spot, before returning to our inn. This evening you may do as the Sicilians, and stroll through the streets of Castelbuono, perhaps stopping for an aperitivo, before enjoying dinner on your own. Relais Santa Anastasia, Castelbuono (Meals: B, L)
DAY 6 Cefalù to Taormina Walk – easy to moderate, 3 hours, along country roads and trails; approximately 6 miles. Drive time approximately 2.5 hours. Our day begins with a walk through the Relais Santa Anastasia vineyards to the farming countryside above Cefalù, interspersed with small villas, orange groves, and private vegetable gardens. In Cefalù, we might refresh with a lemon, coffee, or almond granita while strolling the medieval streets. We may also choose to visit the CathedralBasilica, or the Mandalisca Museum, and perhaps take a stroll on the beach before driving to Taormina. Taormina also has some of the most spectacular views in the world – its Greek and Roman origins, medieval streets, and magnificent position overlooking the Ionian Sea have made it a favorite destination for centuries.
A cooking demonstration in the kitchen of La Foresteria.
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THE JOURNEY continued This evening you are free to walk through the winding streets of Taormina and dine at one of the many charming restaurants in town. Hotel Imperiale, Taormina (Meals: B, L)
DAY 7 Mount Etna Walk – 4-6 hours, moderate, along country roads and trails; approximately 8 miles. Drive time approximately 50 minutes. Today we drive through graceful, dusky towns built of black lava stone to the lower slopes of Mt. Etna, the powerful volcano that the locals have learned to love despite its many spectacular eruptions. Our exciting hike takes us across lava fields from the 1983 eruption, and through pine forests and shady chestnut groves. Part of our hike is strenuous because we ascend on lava ash, which can make for rough footing, but the volcanic landscape is breathtaking. At the highest point of our hike, we have views down into a huge lava-covered valley, with Etna’s main crater visible above.
“Culturally, physically, intellectually we had the time of our lives – and we’ve travelled a lot. But the difference was Boundless Journeys. This was a tailor-made trip that could not be duplicated by another tour company. This was not a tour, it was an experience.” — V.M., Katonah, NY
This evening we toast to our week in Sicily with a farewell dinner in Taormina, enjoying, one last time, the flavors of a region we have come to revere. Hotel Imperiale, Taormina (Meals: B, L, D)
DAY 8 Departure Today we say ciao to this spectacular island and return home with stories of ancient times, astonishing scenery, and fine Italian wine. A transfer is provided to the airport at Catania after breakfast.
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The town of Cefalù, hugging the coast.
Please note that this is a typical itinerary, and actual activities such as wine tastings and daily walks, may vary in location to take advantage of weather conditions, local events, and to allow serendipity to play a hand in your experience. Accommodations are as outlined in the itinerary, although we reserve the right to change these or the order visited should the need arise.
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JOURNEY AT A GLANCE DAY 1
Meet in Palermo and drive towards the medieval hilltop citadel of Erice. Along the way, visit the ancient Greek city of Segesta.
DAY 2
Walk along wild coastline in the Monte Cofano Nature Reserve and perhaps take a dip in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Transfer to Menfi.
DAY 3
Enjoy a walk through the hilltop village of Caltabellota with sweeping views of the sea and mountains. Visit Selinunte, the largest archeological park in Europe. Learn the secrets of Sicilian cuisine with a cooking class.
DAYS 4-5
Hike in the Madonie Mountains through villages and farms, before continuing to Castelbuono for a relaxing afternoon. Taste wines from the surrounding vineyards, and celebrate with fine cuisine.
DAYS 6-7
Walk to the captivating seaside town of Cefalù with its medieval streets, picturesque coastline, and dominating Norman cathedral. Transfer to Taormina, Sicily’s best-known resort, perched dramatically above the sea. Explore the flanks of Mount Etna, hiking over a recent lava flow and through shady chestnut and pine groves. Enjoy a picnic of local gourmet treats.
DAY 8
Say arrivederci in Taormina, Italy.
WHAT’S INCLUDED Just pack your bags – we’ve got you covered! When you’re on a Boundless Journeys adventure, every detail is taken care of for you, so you can relax and truly experience each moment. Put your wallet away, leave your travel books behind, fold up your maps, and BE there. Your Boundless Journeys adventure includes: • • • • • • •
Expert leadership All accommodations All meals except two dinners (Days 5 & 6) All on-tour transportation All activities as noted in the itinerary Local beer and wine with included dinners All gratuities except for those for your guide and driver, which are at your discretion
International airfare is not included in the price of your trip. Please contact your local travel agency or the airlines directly to make any arrangements you may need. If you would like assistance with booking your flights or other travel plans, please contact Boundless Journeys directly at (800) 941-8010 for a referral to our partners who will best fulfill your needs. 8
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ACCOMMODATIONS Charming accommodations in ideal locations with beautiful views. Night 1
HOTEL ELIMO
Via Vittorio Emanuele, 75 Erice, Italy Tel 011 39 0923 869 377 E-mail
[email protected] In the magnificent setting of the well preserved ancient village of Erice, Hotel Elimo, an 18th-century converted estate, offers the perfect location from which to explore this charming village.
Nights 2 & 3
LA FORESTERIA
Contrada Passo di Gurra Menfi, Italy Tel 011 39 0925 195 5460 E-mail
[email protected] La Foresteria boasts views across rolling vineyards to the sea, stylish rooms, a swimming pool, fragrant herb gardens, and a professional kitchen in which guests may observe the preparation of fresh, local cuisine.
Nights 4 & 5
RELAIS SANTA ANASTASIA
Contrade Santa Anastasia Castelbuono, Italy Tel 011 39 092 167 2233 E-mail
[email protected] A former abbey, this charming hotel stands on a hill overlooking a valley of vineyards, a short distance from the medieval village of Castelbuono.
Nights 6 & 7
HOTEL IMPERIALE
Via Circonvallazione, 11 Taormina, Italy Tel 011 39 0942 625202 Fax 011 39 0942 625978 E-mail
[email protected] Located in the heart of Taormina’s historic center, the 5-star Hotel Imperiale was built at the beginning of the 20th century and reopened in 2009. Each room enjoys a wonderful view of the surrounding panorama, from the roofs of Taormina to the Greek Theater, and the intense blue of the Bay of Naxos.
Poolside at La Foresteria.
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WHAT TO EXPECT TRIP RATING Boundless Journeys’ trips are designed for energetic and flexible individuals who like to be active and have a spirit of adventure and a positive attitude. Ancient Sicily Hiking is rated 2+, easy to moderate, on a scale of 1-5 (with 5 being the most strenuous). It features walks of varying length and difficulty, that average 3-6 hours per day. It is always possible to opt out of a day’s walking if you would prefer to relax at the hotel. Please refer to the detailed itinerary for descriptions of the activities on each day of the trip. PREPARING FOR THIS TRIP It is very important that you realistically assess your physical condition with regard to the demands of this trip. The more well-prepared you are for the activities, the more you will enjoy yourself. As a general guideline, we suggest that you engage in easy to moderate aerobic activities (such as walking, hiking, jogging, or cycling) for at least 30-45 minutes several times a week for 4-6 weeks before the trip. If you live in a flat area, try to incorporate some stairs into your workout, or use a treadmill with varying incline capability (consult your doctor before undertaking any new fitness program). Please contact us if you have any doubts regarding your physical match with this tour. WHAT THE TRIP IS LIKE Ancient Sicily Hiking will expose you to the finer aspects of this special area, and allows for an intimate experience as we set out on foot through the beautiful landscape. The accommodations we have chosen are among the finest in the region, and are in ideal locations offering exceptional views of broad valleys, rolling countryside, and dramatic coastline. Our meals are chosen to introduce you to regional specialties and they may be taken as a picnic, in a lively trattoria, or as a multi-course meal in an elegant setting; all will be memorable! TRANSFER DAYS On this tour we have the opportunity to visit both the east and west coasts of Sicily. In order to see the
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highlights of this diverse island, we will be spending some time driving from one town to the next, with driving times of 1.5 to 3.5 hours on transfer days. WEATHER The climate is typically Mediterranean, with hot summers, and short, mild winters. The weather in late spring and early fall is usually very pleasant, with daytime temperatures that range from low 60s to upper 80s, and the 50s and 60s at night. While these months are not in Italy’s “rainy season” there can be cool breezes or showers at any time. Please come prepared to walk rain or shine. We will always walk unless weather conditions make it dangerous to do so. The following are average temperatures in Sicily during the spring and fall: AVG. TEMPERATURE ºF (HIGH/LOW) May
72/61
September
81/72
You may obtain more detailed weather information on www.weatherbase.com. WHEN TO GO Sicily has a pleasant sunny climate and the spring and fall months tend to be the best times to visit, as this avoids the very hot summer months and peak tourist season. Mountainous areas can be surprisingly cool, especially in the evening. A swim in the sea is possible from April to October, with water temperatures increasing throughout the summer months. TRAVELER’S RESPONSIBILITY Trip participants have certain responsibilities to both Boundless Journeys and your fellow travelers. This includes understanding the conditions described in the trip itinerary and making sure it is appropriate for your interests and abilities, based on a review of the trip ratings, consultation with Boundless Journeys’ staff, and perhaps your doctor. In addition, trip participants are responsible for preparing for a trip
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WHAT TO EXPECT continued by undertaking the proper fitness training. At the guide’s discretion, a participant may be asked to leave the trip if the guide feels that the person’s further participation may be detrimental to the individual or to other trip participants. If you have any questions about the difficulty level of the trip you have chosen, please contact Boundless Journeys to speak with one of our Destination Managers. GROUP TRAVEL Small group travel affords us the opportunity to seek out the most remote and exotic destinations on the planet. Often we are exploring these locales with just 6-12 guests. The nature of active group travel is such that not all participants have the same ability level or interests. Traveling at a pace that is comfortable for the entire group, with a spirit of flexibility and adventure are all part of this intimate experience.
Pine forests at the base of Mt. Etna.
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TRIP LEADERS With a Boundless Journeys guide, your experience is that of friend and local adventurer. We believe strongly in working with local guides, experts in the areas to which we travel, and they hold the keys to unlocking the hidden delights of your chosen destination. Although you will never know they are at work – the mark of a truly great leader – our guides make magical things happen and add a dimension to your trip that you could not experience on your own. Over the years we have forged bonds with some of the best guides in the world, and we typically work with a small team of guides in each region. You will be informed of the guide for your trip one month prior to your departure. Featured Guides: ALESSANDRO GULLO Since 1998, Alex has been a walking guide throughout Italy, from the Dolomites to Sicily, enjoying sharing Italy from all points of view - the natural beauty, the food, the wine, and the historical sites, with a particular look at the Italians of today. Born in Sicily, and currently living in Umbria, Alex was educated in the U.S. as well as in Italy. He combines his charming personality with vast knowledge to make our Italian adventures more than memorable.
KEEGAN ALAGNA With an American mother and an Italian father, Keegan grew up in a bilingual home enriched with insights into two cultures and two countries. He grew up on a working farm in the Assisi countryside, and developed a passion for the natural world and the outdoors at a young age. During Keegan’s post-graduate work in geology at the Università di Perugia, his research often took him abroad - even to Mongolia, where he consulted on volcanic phenomena. Keegan currently lives in Orvieto, and enjoys leading walking tours with a focus on first-hand awareness of Italy’s history, its natural wonders, and the Italian people. GIANNI STANGHELLINI Gianni lives in Siena, a beautiful medieval town about one hour south of Florence. He has a Ph.D. in geology and has been a certified guide since 1999. Music has always been an important part of his life. He was the only member of his family who was not forced to study music, and he is the only one who is still playing! Gianni plays the flute and guitar in jazz and classical ensembles and began studying piano five years ago. Cooking and photography are among his other passions, which he combines artfully with guiding. Gianni enjoys sharing the history, culture, and natural beauty of Italy with guests, as well as much laughter.
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NEXT STEPS TO MAKE A RESERVATION You may call Boundless Journeys at 800-941-8010, request a reservation online, fax 802-253-1844, or contact your travel agent. We will confirm your reservation with a deposit of $500 USD per person, payable by check or credit card. The balance of your trip price is due 90 days prior to the start of your trip. ONCE YOU RESERVE As soon as you have confirmed your adventure, we provide you with an extensive, detailed trip planner that includes arrival and departure details, a complete packing list, suggested reading lists, regional information, required documents, and other details. TRIP CANCELLATION INSURANCE In addition to your detailed trip planner, we will also email you a quote for Travel Guard Trip Insurance. Please let us know if you would like us to purchase a policy on your behalf. If you choose to decline this service, we ask that you sign and return the Insurance Waiver included in your trip planner package. Boundless Journeys strongly recommends purchasing Trip Insurance. CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY* If it becomes necessary to cancel your trip the following schedule applies and is determined by the day that we receive written notification: • >90 days prior to the trip will be charged $100. • 90-61 days prior to the start of the trip will be charged 25% of the trip price. • 60-46 days prior to the start of the trip will be charged 50% of the trip price. •
