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 two of the most beautiful wineries surrounding Mt. Etna. You'll start at Firriato's Cavanera estate for a winery tour, tasting and lunch in their ancient palmento. Afterwards, we'll visit our friends at Tenuta Tascante for a stunning walk through the vineyards, concluding with a private wine tasting. Upon returning to Taormina, dinner is at your leisure but, as always, we're happy to make recommendations and bookings.
Tuesday
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!
Wednesday
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. After tasting wines from their five estates, take in the views during a leisurely lunch at Bellavista Ristorante. Finally, you'll return to your hotel before one last dinner on your own in Taormina.
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 and we are confident you'll feel the same!
Friday
Today is yours to enjoy as you see fit. Explore the streets, go for a swim, do a bit of shopping, walk to some of the Greek and Roman ruins in town, or simply grab a bench and people watch. We highly recommend a morning coffee or a sunset cocktail along the seaside promenade, Lungomare Alfeo. In the evening, plan to join our team for a beautiful dinner at Regina Lucia Ristorante, overlooking the unmatched splendor of Piazza Duomo.
Saturday
On our final day together, you'll be introduced to the powerful yet elegant wines of the Noto DOC region. We'll 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 the US. Finally, enjoy one more dinner with your group, recounting the memories from the week.
Sunday
While your time with us has come to an end, we truly hope your journey continues in taking you to other beautiful and awe-inspiring parts of our 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!