Call us: (910) 742-5324
Call us: (910) 742-5324
Ladies, get ready to indulge your senses on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Mediterranean with Sisterhood Travels’ latest offering – our “Epicurean Escapade: Sicily & Salina” odyssey. This unique adventure is more than just a trip; it’s a celebration of exquisite flavors, breathtaking landscapes, and enduring friendships. Imagine savoring the rich, authentic tastes of Sicilian cuisine, from aromatic street food in bustling markets to gourmet dishes on a sunset cruise around the awe-inspiring Stromboli Volcano. Every meal is a story, every bite a memory in the making.
As we weave through the charming streets of Sicily and the serene beauty of Salina, you’ll not only be a traveler but a connoisseur of culture and cuisine. Picture yourself sipping on fine local wines under the Sicilian sun and toasting to new friendships under starlit skies. The heart of this journey is about connection – with the land, its people, and, most importantly, each other. Our shared dining experiences will be the perfect backdrop for stories to unfold and bonds to strengthen.
But that’s not all. We’ve curated a series of exclusive cultural exchanges that will take you behind the scenes of Sicily’s rich heritage. From private tours of ancient ruins to meetings with anti-Mafia activists, each encounter is designed to deepen your understanding and appreciation of this magnificent region. Whether you’re exploring the Baroque marvels of Modica or wandering through the vibrant markets of Palermo, every moment is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the soul of Sicily.
With Sisterhood Travels, you’re not just booking a trip; you’re signing up for an experience that will tantalize your taste buds, enrich your soul, and create bonds that last a lifetime. So, are you ready to join us on this epicurean escapade? Let’s discover the magic of Sicily and Salina together!
Welcome to Sicily! Once you pass through immigration and customs, you’ll meet your driver in the Arrivals Hall and be transported to our hotel. Today is yours to rest, rejuvenate, and relax. Perhaps this evening, you’ll join your Sisters for an informal get-together in the hotel. No meals are included today.
Hotel: Best Western Ai Cavalieri Hotel, Palermo
Today is yours to rest, relax, or independently explore with your Sisters. Don’t forget to come back for our Welcome Dinner. (Breakfast and Dinner)
Hotel: Best Western Ai Cavalieri Hotel, Palermo
We’ll begin our adventure tasting our way through Palermo’s lively markets on a walking tour unveiling the city’s historical center, which will introduce you to traditional Sicilian street food, which layers Oriental and Norman influences with local produce such as wild fennel, olives and spices. This afternoon, we’ll head to Monreale Cathedral, ascending on foot to see its majestic Byzantine mosaics. Then, it’s your choice! Explore the cathedral’s cloisters, taking in their serene atmosphere of the monastic complex -OR- ascend the southern tower to the panoramic terraces for a bird’s-eye view over Palermo. (Breakfast and Lunch)
Hotel: Best Western Ai Cavalieri Hotel, Palermo
Today, we’ll experience an impactful exchange with Addiopizzo, an anti-Mafia nonprofit that supports locals who refuse to pay the Mafia’s protection fees. We’ll visit Capaci, the site of a terrorist act led by the Mafia, and pay tribute to fallen activists. You’ll have an opportunity to chat with locals for a personal perspective and learn how they overcame the Mafia’s reign. Later this afternoon, we’ll settle into our hotel in coastal Trapani for a two-night stay. This evening, watch the sunset fade against the crashing waves and whirling windmills as you dine independently with your Sisters. (Breakfast)
Hotel: I Mulini Resort, Trapani
Today, we’ll discover the ancient craft of sea-salt harvesting during a guided visit to the salt pans of Trapani. Then, we’ll continue to Marsala, heading down into a cellar for a taste of its renowned wine paired with traditional bites. This afternoon, we’ll journey to the enchanted hilltop village of Erice before returning to our hotel for dinner. (Breakfast and Dinner)
Hotel: I Mulini Resort, Trapani
This morning, we’ll head to an award-winning olive grove and learn about the Slow Food movement, which supports local cultures and preserves traditions. You’ll be able to try their unique olive oil at lunch before departing for Agrigento, where ancient roots and medieval buildings blend into modernity. Later this afternoon, we’ll wander through the imposing Greek ruins of the Valley of the Temples (UNESCO) in the company of our expert guide. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
Hotel: Baia di Ulisse, Agrigento
Today, we’ll make our way to Ragusa (UNESCO), an ancient city perched upon a hill. We’ll meander through its Baroque neighborhood with an expert guide, passing by winding lanes, cobblestone streets, and wrought iron balconies. Make the most of a free afternoon to explore with your Sisters. As the sun sets, we’ll retreat to our countryside resort just outside the city. (Breakfast and Dinner)
Hotel: Poggio del Sole Hotel, Ragusa
Today, we’ll journey to Sicily’s Baroque Valley, known for its ornate historic architecture where we’ll discover UNESCO World Heritage sites in Scicli and Modica. The town of Scicli dates back to the 3rd century BC, home to a number of centuries-old churches. We’ll visit a local farm for brunch to learn about two local specialties: ricotta cheese and sausage. The hilly city of Modica, dating back to the 2nd century BC, is renowned for its baroque architecture and breathtakingly detailed facades. We’ll taste Modica’s historically rooted artisanal chocolate, based on flavorful Aztec recipes of millennia ago. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
Hotel: Poggio del Sole Hotel, Ragusa
Today, we’ll grab our bags and hop on a ferry in Milazzo. We’ll sail by Vulcano and Lipari on our way to Salina, a far-flung isle surrounded by vibrant blue waters and dark volcanic rock. Somewhat off the beaten path, Salina is one of the less-traveled Aeolian Islands, preserved as a vacation getaway for Italians. Upon arrival, we’ll settle into the hamlet of Lingua for a 2-night stay. (Breakfast and Dinner)
Hotel: Mamma Santina Hotel, Salina
This morning, dramatic landscapes of rocky cliffs and vibrant vineyards pass by on our way to nearby Pollara, famous for its traditional caper cultivation. Wander through the fields, tasting the salted flower buds accompanied by a glass of Malvasia, a locally produced dessert wine. This afternoon, Take in the sights on a leisurely sunset sail around the legendary Stromboli Volcano, called “the Lighthouse of the Mediterranean.” Our private boat will anchor for an opportunity to swim in beautiful waters (weather permitting). Watch the skyline for puffs of smoke, emitting from the island’s active volcano. In the intimate dining space, we’ll indulge in a rustic dinner of local Aeolian specialties and regional wines. As the sun sets, be on the lookout for glowing hues of red and orange and perhaps some small lava flows in the drama of the dusk sky. (Breakfast and Dinner)
Hotel: Mamma Santina Hotel, Salina
After a relaxing morning, we’ll ferry back to mainland Sicilia. Then, we’ll journey along the Ionian Coast to Taormina, a seaside hub of ancient Greek theaters and hilly walkways. Settle into your new home for the next three nights and enjoy a free evening to explore and dine with your Sisters. (Breakfast)
Hotel: NH Collection, Taormina
This morning, we’ll discover Taormina with a local guide, leading us to the city’s Duomo, public gardens, and the well-preserved Greek theater. Walk in the footsteps of ancient attendees and take in an unparalleled viewpoint of the adjacent ocean. Spend your free afternoon and evening with your Sisters. (Breakfast)
Hotel: NH Collection, Taormina
We’re going to see Sicily’s wilder side on an off-road adventure to Mount Etna. Stare up at the iconic peak as your vehicle climbs along the sides of Europe’s largest active volcano. Spend the day exploring this legendary giant, passing by lava formations and basalt rocks. This evening, we’ll toast to our Sicilian sojourn at our Farewell Dinner, surrounded by local musicians. (Breakfast and Dinner)
Hotel: NH Collection, Taormina
Sadly, our exploration of beautiful Sicily comes to a close today. We’ll transfer back to the Catania airport for our flights home. (Breakfast)
PLEASE READ THIS INFORMATION CAREFULLY
This is a consistently robust itinerary that is likely to be filled with a combination of long, active days, several early hotel departures and some long journeys by coach. There may be limited time for rest and rejuvenation as you explore these amazing destinations. There may be multiple flights and travel by non-traditional means such as safari vehicles, rickshaws/pedicabs, etc. Guests should have reasonable health and mobility and be capable of walking 1-2 miles over time over potentially difficult terrain which may include hills. Guests should be comfortable with standing for longer periods of time with no difficulty.
