Agriturismo Il Drago

With the collaboration of Platinum Travel

12th May – 16 May 2024

12th May –

We meet our Tour Leader at the Malta International airport for a KMMalta airline flight departing at 05:45 am. We arrive in Catania airport at around 06:30 am. We take our private coach to our first destination. We drive the motorway to arrive in Caltagirone, a charming town in the heart of Sicily, known for its vibrant ceramics and stunning architecture. Located in the province of Catania, Caltagirone is situated on a hill about 608 meters (1995 feet) above sea level. Its elevated position provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. It is renowned for its centuries-old tradition of ceramic craftsmanship. The town’s streets and squares are adorned with colourful ceramic decorations, including intricate tiles, pottery and sculptures. As soon as we arrive we make a stop in one of the many ceramics departments where we will have a demonstration of a fine tradition how this are is produced. Out of the department we continue to explore this lovely city.

Perhaps the most iconic feature of Caltagirone is the Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte, a grand staircase with 142 steps, each decorated with unique ceramic tiles. This staircase connects the lower town to the historic centre and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Another architectural highlight is Palazzo Senatorio also known as the Town Hall, this is an architectural gem with a façade adorned with colourful ceramics. It stands in the main square, Piazza Municipio. Some free time to visit the old town of Caltagirone before we return to the coach to takes us to our 4 star resort in a town where art, history and tradition come together. Its vibrant ceramics, picturesque staircases, and cultural events make it a captivating destination for those seeking a unique and artistic experience in Sicily. We return to our coach for a shorter drive for our Agriturismo resort in the nature area of Piazza Armerina. We check in and make a familiarization walk in the resort. The estate offers vast green spaces embellished with olive trees. The rural picture is completed by the prence of animals. Inside the farm you can admire a small lake full of fisth where ducks and geese swim free and several aviaries with peacocks, pheasants and other species will be around this lake. S sumptuous dinner will follow and overnight.

13th May –

Breakfast and we prepare to start our day filled with adventures. Our coach will first drive us to Piazza Armerina. This is a historic town in the heart of Scicly. Piazza Armerina has ancient origins, dating back to Roman times. It was later inhabited by various civilizations, including the Byzantines and Arabs before becoming part of the Kingdom of Sicily. The town is most famous known for its well-preserved Roman Villa – Villa Romana del Casale. The coach will drop us close to the entrance and we walk to the gates which leads us to this historical monument (Entrance Extra). Villa Romana del Casale was discovered in the late 19th century and underwent extensive excavation work in the 20th century. This site was buried by a landslide, contributing to the preservation of its mosaics. In 1997, Villa Romana del Casale was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its exceptional archaeological and artistic significance. While the exact purpose of the villa is not definitively known, it is believed to have served as both a rural retreat and an agricultural centre. The villa’s layout includes residential quarters, reception rooms, and extensive thermal baths.

Villa Romana del Casale is renowned for its extensive and remarkably well-preserved collection of mosaics. The mosaics depict a wide range of scenes, including mythological subjects, hunting scenes, daily life and portraits. One of the most famous mosaics in the villa is the portrayal of young women engaging in various athletic activities, commonly known as the “Bikini Girls”. This mosaic is located in the aforementioned grand triclinium. Another notable serries of mosaics is the “Corridor of the Great Hunt”, which illustrates scenes of exotic animals and hunting activities. Finishing this tour, we will be driven back to our resort. Some free time and we will prepare for another Sicilian dinner..

14th May –

Today we will be having a relaxing day in this magnificent Agriturismo resort. We will have breakfast at leisure and afterwards we can choose how to spend our time either by doing some horse riding, visiting the animals or make a walk in the panoramic surroundings. The estate offers vast green spaces embellished with olive trees, firs, walnuts, polars, pines and holm oaks that branch out along the hillsides, mixing with fruit trees. The rural picture is completed by the presence of animals. Here, you can also admire a small lake full of fish where ducks, and geese swim free and several aviaries with peacocks pheasants and other species will be around this lake in the afternoon for those who like we will be organizing an optional excursion to The multi discount Sicilia Outlet Village. Here you will be having the opportunity to take advantage of the many discounts offered from these outlets. Dinner in the evening and rest.

15th May –

After breakfast, our direction today will be to the so called here, the belly button of Sicily, Enna. This is also often referred to as the “Belvedere of Sicily” due to its elevated position, is a historic town located in the central part of the island. Enna boasts a rich history, panoramic views, and a mix of archaeological and architectural treasures. We make a stop near the Castello di Lombardia (Lombardy Castle): The iconic Lombardy Castle dominates the town’s skyline. Originally built by the Normans, it underwent various renovations over the centuries. Besides the building from outside, we can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. We continue walking to the old town util we reach the Enna Cathedral (Duomo di Enna): The cathedral, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, is a prominent religious structure in the town. It features a mix of architectural styles, including Norman, Gothic and Baroque elements. We will also be able to see the Church of San Francesco d’Assisi: A notable church with a Baroque façade, the Church of San Francesco is known for its artistic decorations and historical significance. We will return back to our coach and start descending until we arrive at Lake Pergusa. This is a natural reserve and archaeological site. It is known for the ancient racing track, Pergusan chariot races, and the Temple of Venus. We may even drive around this lake and make a phot stop before we continue to our resort for dinner and overnight.

16th May

Breakfast and we start preparing to say good bye to the resort and start heading to two important UNESCO World Heritage cities before we make way to Catania airport. Our first stop will be in the charming town of Ragusa located in the south-eastern part of Sicily. Known for its stunning Baroque architecture, historic charm and rich culinary traditions, Ragusa is part of the Val di Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The historic centre of Ragusa, known as Ragusa Ibla, is a labyrinth of narrow streets, alleys, and picturesque squares. Notable architectural highlights include. We make our first stop in Ragusa Ibla to take a look at Duomo di San Giorgio (Cathedral of Saint George): A spelendid Baroque cathedral with an impressive façade and ornate interior. Other landmarks here are Palazzo Cosentini: a magnificent palace featuring Baroque architecture and an elegant staircase, and Chiesa di San Giuseppe (Church of Saint Joseph): A beautiful church known for its decorative Baroque style. We continue to visit Ragusa Superiore: The upper town, Ragusa Superiore, is a more modern part of Ragusa with its own architectural charm. Notable features include the famous Ragusa’s Cathedral, dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, the cathedral in Ragusa Superiore is another impressive example of Baroque architecture.

We cannot miss here the Hyblean Gardens: Beautiful gardens offering panoramic views of both Ragusa Ibla and Ragusa Superiore. Our final destination will be Noto, often referred to as the “Pearl of Baroque”, is a stunning town located in the south-eastern part of Sicily. Known for its exquisite Baroque architecture, Not is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful towns in the Val di Noto region. We walk into the heart of Noto the historic centre, characterized by elegant streets, squares, and grandiose Baroque buildings. The entire centre is a testament to the town’s commitment to preserving and celebrating its cultural heritage. A unique attraction her is Noto Cathedral (Cattedrale di Noto): A magnificent Baroque cathedral dedicated to Saint Nicholas, the Noto Cathedral is an iconic landmark. Its intricate façade, adorned with statues and decorations, is a masterpiece of the Sicilian Baroque style. More to see here is Palazzo Ducezio: This elegant palace serves as the town hall and is another prime example of Baroque architecture. The building features a beautiful square and a grand staircase. Another splendid example of Baroque architecture in Noto is the Church of San Carlo al Corso: Known for its imposing façade. Concluding the visit of Not we drive to Catania airport to check in for our KMMalta airlines departing to Malta at 23:50.

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