Sicily is the crossroads of the Medierranean, The stepping stone between three continents, between West and East. For centuries the island, the largest in the Mediterranean, was ruled by a succession of foreign powers: Phoenicians, Greeks and Romans; Goths, Moors and Byzantines; Norman French, Aragonese and Hapsburg Spanish, until finally, and comparatively recently, the Italians took control.

The island's history explains the remarkable artistic monuments which remain. In Siracusa we visit the Temple of Athena, the oldest continually used place of worship in Europe, and in Segesta perhaps the most beautiful Doric monument still extant. The Roman mosaics of Casale are also unsurpassed in any country. In Palermo it is the Norman treasures which dominate and we will have time to see two of the greatest of these. But this is also a beautiful and wild island with extraordinary areas of walking. We focus firstly on the limestone gorges of the Monti Iblei, then travel to the major wilderness of the Madonie mountains for three dramatic days before descending to the capital Palermo, from where we make an excursion westwards to the Alcamo hills. This walk is a combination of magnificent sightseeing, superb food and excellent walking.

The altitude varies from about sea level to over 5000ft.

Excellent accommodation and food throughout. Siracusa - 4 star hotel - Gangi - Agriturismo - Palermo 4 star hotel

Maximum number of walkers 16.

Average hours walked per day 4.5.

Average miles walked per day 9.