Flavors of SicilyItinerary

Day 1: En Route from U.S.
Friday, May 2, 2025

Day 2: Arrive in Catania, Sicily | Giarre
Saturday, May 3, 2025
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.
Overnight: Don Arcangelo all'Olmo (R,D)

Day 3: Taormina
Sunday, May 4, 2025
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.
Overnight: Don Arcangelo all'Olmo (B,D)

Day 4: Piazza Armerina
Monday, May 5, 2025
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.
Overnight: Don Arcangelo all'Olmo (B,L,D)

Day 5: Catania | Viagrande
Tuesday, May 6, 2025
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.
Overnight: Don Arcangelo all'Olmo (B,L,D)

Day 6: Siracusa | Ortigia
Wednesday, May 7, 2025
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.
Overnight: Don Arcangelo all'Olmo (B,D)

Day 7: Mount Etna
Thursday, May 8, 2025
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.
Overnight: Don Arcangelo all'Olmo (B,L,D)

Day 8: Taormina
Friday, May 9, 2025
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.
Overnight: Don Arcangelo all'Olmo (B,L,D)

Day 9: Giarre | Catania | Depart for U.S.
Saturday, May 10, 2025
After breakfast guests departing during the suggested times take a complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home. (B)

R = Reception, B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

Tour days tend to be long, flow at a consistent pace and may include long periods of travel. Guests should be prepared to walk longer distances, climb stairs and tolerate periods of standing, for example on city walks, sightseeing stops or ship excursions, on sometimes uneven surfaces including cobblestones or unpaved pathways and trails. Some destinations may have variations in altitude and/or temperature. Daily pace and timing may vary significantly between longer and shorter travel days, with additional activities possibly occurring in the early morning or evening. Guests are expected to board transportation without assistance. Elevators are not always available at accommodations or sites visited.

• Historic areas are usually more accessible by foot than by vehicle. It may not always be possible for the motor coach to drop guests off at site entrances.

• Dexterity to use kitchen tools and participate in lessons is not necessary but adds to the enjoyment of this program.