per person based on double occupancy
Join us on a captivating nine-day journey through the heart of Sicily to discover the vibrant island’s historical and cultural treasures. Explore renowned archaeological and UNESCO World Heritage sites, indulge in delicious cuisine and wine, and partake in hands-on cooking classes with celebrated chefs who share recipes and culinary techniques passed down through generations. This immersive experience promises to engage all of your senses and leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
– With your small group (maximum 23 guests), enjoy seven nights in the elegant luxury of your private villa, Don Arcangelo all'Olmo.
– Join hands-on culinary experiences with skilled chefs to learn time-tested techniques and modern twists with ingredients grown in the mineral-rich, volcanic soil of Mount Etna’s fertile lowlands.
– Explore the charming coastal towns of Taormina and Siracusa—including a stop at a local outdoor market.
– Visit Benanti, a family-owned boutique winery and recipient of more than 80 awards since 1994.
– Tour the Donnafugata winery followed by a tasting and lunch.
– Admire extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Villa Romana del Casale and Mount Etna.
Day 1: En Route from U.S.
Day 2: Arrive in Catania, Sicily | Giarre
Day 3: Taormina
Day 4: Piazza Armerina
Day 5: Catania | Viagrande
Day 6: Siracusa | Ortigia
Day 7: Mount Etna
Day 8: Taormina
Day 9: Catania | Depart for U.S.
R = Reception, B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
Day 1: En Route from U.S.
Friday, September 5, 2025
Day 2: Arrive in Catania, Sicily | Giarre
Saturday, September 6, 2025 (R,D)
Upon arrival to Catania's Vincenzo Bellini Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to the property.
Don Arcangelo all’Olmo, a historic villa surrounded by lush gardens and centuries-old olive trees, creates an atmosphere of serenity. The meticulously restored guest rooms effortlessly blend modern comfort with the charm of Sicilian tradition, providing a tranquil haven in which to relax after enriching days of exploration.
Take time to unpack and settle in before meeting fellow travel companions for a welcome reception and dinner featuring local wines and ingredients.
Day 3: Taormina
Sunday, September 7, 2025 (B,D)
After waking to stunning views of Mount Etna, gather for breakfast then set out for a full day touring Taormina.
This idyllic town perched high above the Ionian Sea is a gem of ancient theaters, charming streets, popular beaches and breathtaking views. With your local guide stop at the Greek amphitheatre (one of Sicily's most picturesque and well-preserved) for spectacular photography opportunities before leisure time to stroll the pedestrian-only Corso Umberto and its lively shops and restaurants.
Return to the villa with time to freshen up before dinner.
Day 4: Piazza Armerina
Monday, September 8, 2025 (B,L,D)
Following breakfast your Sicilian adventure continues with a visit to Piazza Armerina for a guided tour of Villa Romana del Casale, an archaeological masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site. History comes alive amidst the well-preserved Roman mosaics of this impressive monument dating back to the late imperial Roman period. Wandering through the opulent rooms you'll capture a glimpse into the lifestyle of a wealthy Sicilian family from centuries past.
Back at the villa take advantage of time to unwind among the property's luxurious amenities before dinner. Take a walk through the colorful gardens, re-energize with a workout in the fitness room or relax in the Jacuzzi.
Day 5: Catania | Viagrande
Tuesday, September 9, 2025 (B,L,D)
This morning's highlight includes time to explore Catania.
The heart of Catania beats in its outdoor street markets where vivid colors, aromatic scents and lively conversations create a sensory symphony that encapsulates the essence of Sicilian life. Meander through the stalls where locals and visitors alike converge to discover an array of tantalizing treats. The market is a feast for the senses. Fresh produce offers a kaleidoscope of colors, and the fragrant bouquet of ripe fruits and exotic spices guide you through the maze of flavors that define Sicilian cuisine. While perusing the myriad of goods engage with passionate vendors who are eager to share stories behind their products and the traditions that have been passed down through generations. This market isn't just a place to shop, it's an authentic experience with an atmosphere that reveals Sicily's vibrant soul and its celebration of life.
After lunch take the short drive to Benanti, an award-winning winery, for a unique cooking lesson followed by a vineyard tour and wine tasting. Notably, Benanti has vineyards positioned on four different slopes of Mount Etna and produces wines using only 100% native grapes.
Return to the villa for a delicious dinner this evening.
Day 6: Siracusa | Ortigia
Wednesday, September 10, 2025 (B,D)
Today journey to the historic cities of Siracusa and Ortigia where ancient ruins and Baroque architecture coexist harmoniously.
Siracusa, a 2,700-year-old fortified seaport founded by Greek Corinthians and Teneans, rivaled Athens in size and importance during the Athenian Empire. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it features many structures dating back to the 5th century B.C.
At the storied island of Ortigia tour the ancient ruins, the “Ear of Dionysius”(a famous stone quarry), and its markets overflowing with local seafood, dairy, meat and succulent produce.
Day 7: Mount Etna
Thursday, September 11, 2025 (B,L,D)
Guests who would like to spend a leisurely morning at the property can choose to relax after breakfast. For those seeking more active exploration join others to ascend Mount Etna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Europe's highest and most active volcano.
Lovingly known locally as "The Etna," the volcano has four craters at its 11,000-foot summit and more than 300 vents on the flanks. Hiking up to 9,580 feet, take in the panoramic views, marvel at its enormity and observe the destruction of previous eruptions and lava flows.
This afternoon gather together for a wine tasting and delectable lunch at Donnafugata, a family-founded winery determined to create only authentic, sustainably produced varietals.
Day 8: Taormina
Friday, September 12, 2025 (B,L,D)
After breakfast immerse yourself in Sicilian culinary traditions with a hands-on cooking class at Villa Britannia. Learn the secrets of pasta- and dessert-making from a celebrated chef who selects only locally grown, hand-picked ingredients to make mouth-watering dishes, which might include: marinated prawns, caponata, pasta alla Norma, seafood risotto, zuppa di pesce, veal rolls, chicken alla cacciatore and desserts such as Sicilian cassata, tiramisu and crespelle.
Following class celebrate this memorable week with a farewell luncheon and wine pairing on the restaurant's terrace overlooking the sea and Taormina.
Day 9: Giarre | Catania | Depart for U.S.
Saturday, September 13, 2025 (B)
After breakfast guests departing during the suggested times take a complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home.
(Itinerary subject to change.)
| Category | Rate* |
|---|---|
| Classic Double: | $6,395 |
| Deluxe Double: | $7,395 |
| Single (Classic): | $8,995 |
*Special group rates; limited offer. Rates are per person based on double occupancy except where noted as Single, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Airfare not included.
Enjoy Sicily’s fascinating and bustling capital, Palermo. The city, more than 2,700 years old, is rich in history, culture, art, music and gourmet cuisine.
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch
Day 9: Depart Taormina | Cefalù | Arrive Palermo
Saturday, September 13, 2025 (L)
After departing Taormina delight in a splendid lunch followed by guided sightseeing in Cefalù, famous for its cozy beaches, picturesque harbor and Duomo (cathedral) built in 1131 by Roger II. Legend has it he built the cathedral to thank the gods for saving him when he was lost at sea during a storm.
The town is also known for its various Greek ruins and delightful streets lined with colorful shops. Cefalù is home to just 14,000 residents, however it remains one of the most popular attractions near Palermo. Some of the original structures of the town are still visible, including an unusual edifice built of limestone blocks that appears to have been a palace or residence—and is the island's only example of this style of masonry, which is typically found in Central Italy.
Enter the imposing Arab-Norman Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's characterized by the impressive mosaic of Christ Pantocrator.
This evening enjoy dinner at leisure and time to relax at the property.
Day 10: Palermo
Sunday, September 14, 2025 (B,L)
Following breakfast join the local guide and embark on a walking tour of the city center. Founded more than 2,700 years ago in a basin formed by three rivers, Palermo is surrounded by mountains and has been influenced by everyone from the Phoenicians to the Romans and Byzantines. Famous for its citrus groves, beautiful ancient churches, outdoor markets and narrow medieval streets, this delightful city combines well-preserved historical sites, friendly locals and delicious cuisine to provide a memorable experience.
Next learn about a movement for the promotion of a virtuous and Mafia-free economy. Discover how this association was born and how it is changing life in Sicily from the bottom up. Set out on a special “No Mafia Tour” through the alleys of the historic center, encountering the places in the fight against the Mafia.
This afternoon enter the amazing Royal Palace of Palermo, the Norman Palace. It was the seat of the Kings of Sicily during the Norman domination and served afterwards as the main seat of power for the subsequent rulers of Sicily. On the second floor is the well-known Cappella Palatina, the royal chapel of the Norman kings dedicated to Saint Peter and Paul. The mosaic created for Ruggero II in the 12th century represents a vivid example of Byzantine art.
The evening is at leisure.
Day 11: Palermo | Depart for U.S.
Monday, September 15, 2025 (B)
After breakfast guests departing during the suggested times take the complimentary group transfer to the airport for flights home.
Post-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.
This post-tour is not escorted by an Orbridge Travel Director. Included sightseeing is accompanied by a local guide.
(Itinerary subject to change.)
| Category | Rate* |
|---|---|
| Double: | $1,695 |
| Single: | $1,895 |
*Post-tour rate is per person based on double occupancy except where noted as Single, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Airfare not included.
Orbridge strongly recommends that you purchase travel and cancellation insurance to protect your investment in the event of unexpected or unforeseen circumstances. It is best to look into travel insurance immediately after making your deposit. Depending on the insurance provider, some coverage can be linked to timing of initial payment. Check your options carefully. If you are on an international departure, you should purchase travel insurance that—at a minimum—provides emergency medical, evacuation, and repatriation coverage. Information regarding an insurance program will be sent to you directly from your alumni association. You also may wish to visit your alumni association’s travel website at https://select.travelinsure.com/?pcode=32248 for more information.
Travel with the Flying Jayhawks is a benefit of membership in the KU Alumni Association. If you are not a member, a $60 annual membership fee will be invoiced to you by KUAA.
Our air partners can make flight arrangements for guests. In the event of flight delays and/or schedule changes, they will provide guests with personalized assistance. To book flight reservations with our air partners, contact (206) 319-5011 and select the option for your destination to discuss flight details with our air colleagues. Upon ticketing, a fee will be charged.
As you explore the region's culinary and cultural flavors, an Orbridge Travel Director will infuse your journey with an epicure’s appreciation of food and wine, a local’s knowledge and pride of place, and a travel aficionado’s ability to enrich the beauty of all senses to your discoveries.
Whether at a wine tasting, visiting with locals, sightseeing, or raising a glass with you over an exquisitely crafted meal, the contribution of your Travel Director is essential to the intimate and educational qualities that distinguish this program. Catch their enthusiasm and explore the flavors of this wonderful region with added confidence, understanding, and appreciation.
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