Sicily & the Aeolian Islands Easygoing Walking Tour
Southern Italy’s Volcanoes, Ancient Cultures & Sun-Warmed Beaches
According to legend, three mythological nymphs created Sicily. And what a land they made: full of whitewashed cliffside towns, otherworldly lava fields, lush green hills and just off the coast, the magical Aeolian Islands.
We rate our trips based on a range of activity levels from 1-5.
See this trip's Activity Options & Terrain for more details.
From $5,599/person
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Snapshots from the Trip
Trip at a Glance
Highlights
- Voyage from Sicily’s dramatic Mount Etna to a string of four enchanting islands in the Aeolian archipelago
- Hike Europe’s tallest active volcano with local experts who share the wonders of the dramatic landscape
- Island hop among UNESCO-recognized Aeolian island gems including lively Lipari, lush Salina and tiny Panarea
- Elevate your journey with local wine and fresh Mediterranean cuisine inspired by the bounty of the island’s rich volcanic soil
- At your seaside resort, swim in natural terraced ocean-fed pools, unwind at the spa and dine at a Michelin-starred spot
Sample itinerary. Trip details may vary by departure.
Start Catania Airport & Travel Details
- Benvenuti in Sicilia! Begin your adventure with a trek through the countryside
- Venture to the eastern side of Mount Etna near the village of Milo, home to Ilice di Carrinu, a stately 800-year-old holm oak
- Relax at the spa at our scenic retreat
- Hike the slopes of Etna, a dramatic World Heritage Site and Europe’s tallest active volcano
- Explore the three ecological zones of the mountain with a local expert for a guided hike through its moon-like terrain
- Try fresh pasta, island citrus and light Mediterranean-style dishes at a classic Italian rifugio.
Nights 1-2
Luxury Hotel
Set on the slopes of Mount Etna near Linguaglossa, Villa Neri Resort & Spa is a boutique retreat overlooking vineyards, olive groves and the surrounding Etna countryside. Contemporary design is paired with traditional Sicilian elements, creating a refined yet relaxed atmosphere. (pool, spa)
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
- Board a ferry to Lipari, the largest of the Aeolian Islands
- Try capers on the island of Salina, said to produce the best in the world
- Sip distinctive wines born of volcanic landscapes and Mediterranean sunshine
- Settle in at our waterfront resort in Vulcano and dine at the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant
- Hike coastal trails through the smallest Aeolian island, Panarea, which sits in the shadow of Stromboli
- Swim in the bubbling waters of Solfatara Lisca Bianca’s underwater fumaroles
- Extend your trip in the coastal hub of Catania.
Nights 3-5
Luxury Hotel
On the northern tip of Vulcano in the Aeolian Islands, Therasia Resort Sea & Spa offers sweeping views across the Tyrrhenian Sea, especially at sunset. White-stone buildings reflect the island's volcanic landscape. A spa, pools and seaside treatment areas provide relaxing spaces in this coastal setting. (pool, spa)
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
End Catania Airport & Travel Details
This trip has an activity level range of 1-2
All breakfasts, all lunches, 4 dinners
All accommodations on your Backroads trip
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Expertise and services of Backroads Trip Leaders
Lightweight carbon hiking poles
Backroads On Trip App with route maps, elevation profiles, daily snapshots and more
Additional local guides and experts, plus equipment for included activities as detailed in your itinerary
Exclusive activities, tours and cultural experiences, as detailed in your itinerary
All luggage transfers and porterage during your trip
Snacks and beverages between meals
Private cocktail and wine receptions on the first and last nights of your trip
Choice of Backroads t-shirt or hat, plus water bottle and luggage tag
Detailed Travel Planner with destination tips and pre-trip information
