The week at a glance
Sunday
Private transfer arranged from Catania to Taormina where you'll check in for your four night stay at the 4-star Villa Hotel Taormina, a true hidden gem. After settling in, enjoy a glass of wine or a spritz while overlooking the Ionian sea before sitting down to a classic Sicilian dinner with us at Ristorante Rosmarino.
Monday
On your first full day, plan to visit one of the most beautiful wineries surrounding Mt. Etna. You'll head to Firriato's Cavanera estate for a winery tour, tasting and lunch. Enjoy a stunning walk through the vineyards, located at the base of the active volcano, concluding with a private wine tasting in a space that is reserved exclusively for Savor Sicily guests. Upon returning to Taormina, dinner is at your leisure but, as always, we're happy to make recommendations and bookings.
Tuesday
Today you'll be whisked away to one of the most special vineyard properties in all of Sicily, if not all of Italy. Not otherwise open to the public, Planeta's Capo Milazzo property allows you to wander through the vines which are surrounded on three sides by the breathtaking coastline. You'll embark on a Journey Through Sicily, tasting and comparing wines from their five unique estate properties. Afterwards, you'll take in the pristine views during a leisurely lunch at Bellavista Ristorante. Finally, you'll return to your hotel before enjoying dinner on your own in Taormina.
Wednesday
Enjoy a day to yourselves, exploring the lively town of Taormina. We'll offer (optional) customized day trips, should you wish to add on another adventure. Options include a cooking class, boating along the coast of Messina, or perhaps an outing to see the places made famous during the filming of The Godfather. This evening, come hungry and dressed to impress as we've planned a very special dinner at one of the best restaurants in town, Vineria Modi, recently awarded one Michelin star! You’ll be embraced with heartfelt hospitality and indulged with an unforgettable meal.
Thursday
After packing your bags, get ready to explore Etna in all of its volcanic wonder during a 1/2 day excursion. Your private guide from Etna Mareneve Escursioni will take you along off-road routes in order to appreciate the most interesting places within the Etna Park. Afterwards, it is time for your group to head to the island of Ortigia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you'll check in for three nights at Maeco Ortigia. This location has been a favorite of previous groups, saying they "arrived as guests, but left as true friends of Martina and her staff."
Friday
Start your day with a guided walking tour through the heart of Ortigia, beginning in its lively open-air market. As you stroll through the narrow streets, your guide will lead you to taste beloved Sicilian specialties before concluding with a leisurely lunch at Burgio Fratelli, a family-run favorite for both locals and tourists. After lunch, go for a swim, walk to some of the Greek and Roman ruins in town, or simply grab a bench and people watch. We highly recommend a sunset cocktail along the seaside promenade, Lungomare Alfeo. In the evening, plan for a beautiful and quiet dinner at OZ, where tradition, hospitality and flavor are seamlessly combined.
Saturday
On this final day of your journey through Sicily, you'll be introduced to the powerful yet elegant wines of the Noto DOC region. Savor a private tour, lunch and tasting at Mazzei's Zisola Estate. Upon your return to Ortigia, let's find time for a sunset aperitivo at Kaleido Terrace. Over cocktails, we'll assist in organizing your wine order from the week, enabling you to ship all the wines together, back to your door in North America. Finally, enjoy one more dinner with your group, recounting the memories from the week.
Sunday
While your Savor Sicily trip has come to an end, we truly hope your journey continues in taking you to other beautiful and awe-inspiring parts of the country. There is so much more to discover, from hidden gems to iconic landmarks, and we’re confident you’ll find every stop along the way enriching. Should you need any assistance or inspiration, our team is here to help. Buon Viaggio and may your travels be filled with joy, wonder and, as always, great wine!