Fabulous Ladies Tour of Sicily 2025
5 – 19 October 2025
In partnership with Travelling Divas
Picture this: you’re sipping a glass of wine on the slopes of Mount Etna, the warm Sicilian sun on your face, surrounded by breathtaking views of volcanic vineyards. Over the next 15 days, you’ll uncover the magic of Sicily—its rich history, world-renowned wines, and unforgettable cuisine—all while indulging in luxury and creating lifelong memories.
Our exclusive and carefully curated Fabulous Ladies Tour of Sicily is designed for wine-loving women who crave more than just a holiday. This is about slowing down, diving into Sicily’s culture, and savouring every sip, taste, and view along the way!
The journey begins with a warm welcome at Dimora Cottanera, a boutique estate in the heart of Etna’s wine country. You’ll explore celebrated wineries like Cottanera and Santa Maria La Nave, taste their unique volcanic wines, and take in the raw beauty of Mount Etna on a Jeep adventure. Evenings are spent enjoying exquisite Sicilian meals and discovering enchanting towns like Taormina.
As we travel south, the focus shifts to food, art, and boutique winemaking. Discover Sicily’s famed culinary traditions in Ragusa before diving into organic, award-winning wines at Arianna Occhipinti’s vineyard. And let’s not forget Modica’s famous chocolate—yes, there’s even a workshop for that!
In Noto and Siracusa, prepare to be swept away by grand Baroque architecture and charming seaside streets. Strolling through these UNESCO World Heritage sites with a local guide feels like stepping back in time. And of course, there will be granita stops because it’s Sicily, after all.
The magic continues at Tenuta Regaleali, a family-owned vineyard where you can hike through rolling hills and enjoy some of Sicily’s finest wines. From there, you’ll marvel at the ancient Greek temples of Agrigento, picnic among olive groves, and unwind at the luxurious Verdura Resort by the sea.
The grand finale? Marsala’s historic wine cellars and Palermo’s vibrant culinary scene. Expect a sensory feast of bold flavours, from Arab-inspired dishes to Sicily’s iconic street food, all wrapped up with a farewell dinner to remember.
If you’re ready for a journey that blends luxury, culture, and connection, this is it! Join us from October 5–19, 2025, and let Sicily captivate you. Spaces are limited to just 12 guests, so don’t wait to book your spot!
Tour Highlights Include
- Exclusive winery experiences with Sicilian women in wine
- VIP guided visit to Valley of the Temples
- Private guided walking tours in historic locations and towns
- Discover Sicily’s culinary traditions with local artisan producers
- Stunning accommodation throughout
- Private transportation to every visit
- Dine in some of Sicily’s most spectacular locations
HOW TO SECURE YOUR PLACE?
Simply fill in the booking form and finalise your payment to secure your place on this October departure!
+ - Getting There
Fly into Catania International Airport from Rome or other European cities (depending on availability). Need help with your flights? Ask us!
+ - Tour Price & Inclusions
+ - Tour Itinerary
Day 1 – Sunday 05: Welcome to Sicily
Arrive into Catania Airport and meet your private transfer to Dimora Cottanera, home for the next 3 nights. Arrive early, check-in and enjoy your lunch and tasting today!
Renowned for its groundbreaking viticulture, Cottanera Winery stands as an epitome of excellence within both Italian and global winemaking. Nestled atop the northern slope of the volcano, its vineyards sprawl across lava stone, thriving 700 meters above sea level, unveiling the distinct essence of this prized territory. Prepare for a captivating journey through the annals of Cottanera’s history, intricately woven with tales of the local terrain. Delve into the heart of the winery with a guided tour, navigating the wine cellar’s secrets and wandering amidst the vine covered landscapes.
Your welcome dinner is in-house tonight
Overnight Accommodation: Dimora Cottanera
Included Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2 – Monday 06: A Mt Etna adventure & some delightful tastings
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure! A rugged Jeep will whisk you from your hotel, accompanied by a seasoned naturalist guide who is eager to unveil the raw majesty of Mount Etna the highest active volcano on the Eurasian plate and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2013!
You’ll be blown away by awe-inspiring vistas, postcard-perfect panoramas, a kaleidoscope of colours, and an untouched symphony of sounds far from the bustling crowds! With over 400 craters and trails resembling scenes from a fairy tale, this adventure promises an immersive experience where mind and body harmonise, plunging you into one of nature’s most enthralling landscapes. This is a land like no other in Sicily, where you’ll feel like you’re stepping into another dimension. The Etna Jeep tour offers a world of possibilities. Your naturalist guide will give you a briefing at the beginning of the activity, so you can choose the way that best suits you.
And the tour’s crescendo? A visit to one of the finest Etna DOC Wineries a perfect cap to an extraordinary day.
At Tenuta Tascante, a vineyard perched upon Europe’s highest active volcano, offering a unique narrative that intertwines the history of the volcano with the artistry of winemaking. Savour Buonora, Tefra, and Ghiaia Nera wines complemented by an aperitivo featuring local cured meats, cheeses, and a selection of Etna’s finest delicacies. This fusion of flavours captures the essence of the region. A stroll through the vineyards is an absolute must-do at Tascante. The estate boasts one of the most breathtaking panoramas within the entire Etna Park—a view that promises to captivate every visitor. The experience includes a lunch at the estate, offering an opportunity to savour local delicacies and immerse in the culinary culture of Mount Etna. Furthermore, during the guided winery tour, you’ll delve into the understanding of winemaking processes and uncover the fascinating world behind Tenuta Tascante’s wine production.
Tucked away in the heart of Mount Etna’s wineries, Santa Maria La Nave is a sparkling oasis of rejuvenation. It’s not just about the wines here it’s an experience that’s pure luxury! Prepare for the most incredible views, the most romantic atmosphere and the most dedicated perfectionists you’ll ever meet! At the heart of this experience are two things that really matter: wine and uncompromising quality. This organic vineyard is a treasure trove of Etna’s biodiversity, creating an exquisite tapestry of excellence in every sip. Behold the incredible attention to detail they lavish on visitors, their boundless enthusiasm a living testament to one of the region’s most captivating realities.
Dinner this evening is at a local restaurant.
Overnight Accommodation: Dimora Cottanera
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 – Tuesday 07: It’s all about Taormina
If you have heard of Sicily, you have certainly heard of Taormina: it is one of the Mediterranean’s most prominent international tourist centres, known for its natural landscape, marine beauty and historic monuments. The “Pearl of the Mediterranean” was an important destination on the Grand Tour, a long journey to continental Europe undertaken by wealthy European aristocrats beginning in the 18th century and the forerunner of the modern tourist concept. Its iconic Ancient Theatre, in addition to being the second largest Greek Theatre in Sicily (after Syracuse), annually showcases world-class concerts. Because of its location at altitude, Taormina offers breathtaking views.
From the Greek theatre you can admire the bay of Giardini Naxos and Mount Etna, while on the other side you can look down the coast toward Messina and see the proximity of the Calabrian coast. Enjoy a stroll through the downtown streets, discovering the major sights of this coveted place with a private local guide who will give the whole thing a perfectly authentic and knowledgeable feel!
Lunch is at leisure.
After the tour, enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace. Dinner this evening is at a restaurant in Taormina, where you can savour the flavours of Sicilian cuisine. Transfer to your accommodation after the tour.
Overnight Accommodation: Dimora Cottanera
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4 – Wednesday 08: Bye bye Etna, hello Siracusa.
This morning transfer to Siracusa. Say farewell to Etna and hello to this beautiful ancient city.
On the way you will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and on arrival check into your hotel, with the rest of the day at leisure to explore this little jewel, before an action packed exploration tomorrow.
Dinner is at leisure.
Enjoy!
Overnight Accommodation: Palazzo Artemide (or similar)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5 – Thursday 09: Siracusa & Noto in detail
Today you have to get your comfy walking shoes out as you will be out and about all day!
You simply have to see Noto and Siracusa if you’re visiting Sicily. They’re two of the most incredible places you’ll ever see, and you’ll be blown away. Your guides will show you the very best of the area, revealing hidden details and fascinating myths that will make these two cities even more incredible!
Firstly welcome to Ortigia, the ancient heart of Siracusa, a living canvas of enchanting poetry where myths and legends come to life. Take a stroll through this captivating island, where the timeless tale of Arethusa unfolds at the Fountain of Arethusa—a magical union of freshwater spring merging with the saltwater sea, echoing the poignant myth of Arethusa and Alphaeus, an integral part of Siracusa’s mesmerising lore. Ortigia’s panoramic allure is legendary, owing to its unparalleled Sicilian setting. Amidst the human tapestry that embraces it, Ortigia exudes a unique charm. Its winding alleys pulse with vibrant life, adorned with bustling markets offering local delights, inviting seafood eateries, and charming cheese, fruit, and vegetable shops. Delve into its charm as you uncover hidden treasures like ancient temples, fortresses, and churches tucked away in every corner, including the grandeur of the Cathedral majestically perched atop an ancient Greek temple.
Then time for lunch at The Fratelli Burgio’s Salumeria, nestled in the heart of Ortigia and its market, representing one of its most iconic places! Here, in fact, you can enjoy fine cold cuts and cheeses, but also many specialties of the typical Mediterranean tradition, recovered with passion: to bind the quality and genuineness of their products.
Next, get ready to dive into the absolute pinnacle of Sicilian and Italian art and architecture!
Welcome to the renowned ‘capital of Baroque’, the historic centre of Noto, a truly magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site! Noto’s timeless charm has graced the silver screen, becoming the backdrop for some of the most incredible cinematic masterpieces ever made. Legendary directors such as Roberto Rossellini, Vittorio De Sica, Michelangelo Antonioni and more have all captured the magic of this city on film. Your private guide will be with you every step of the way as you wander through the city’s cobblestone streets, where majestic staircases lead both worshippers and tourists to the most intricately adorned church entrances you could ever imagine. The avenues unfold into magnificent piazzas, bordered by palaces bathed in gorgeous hues of soft pink and golden yellow. Your tour of Noto could begin in the main square, where you’ll find some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the stunning Palazzo Ducezio, the magnificent Palazzo Vescovile, the impressive Palazzo Landolina, the Church of San Domenico, and the awe-inspiring Cathedral. These are just a few of the architectural gems that await you in Noto! As the tour reaches its finale, treat yourself to one of the best Sicilian Granita paired with freshly baked brioches at Caffè Sicilia the perfect way to end your journey through one of Europe’s most stunning towns.
Back to the hotel for dinner at leisure.
Overnight Accommodation: Palazzo Artemide (or similar)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 6 – Friday 10: Ragusa & a chocolate workshop
This morning, check out and time to transfer to your next fabulous adventure, Modica. The Val di Noto is famous for its late Baroque towns, whose historic centres have been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The influence of the late Baroque in these towns is such that there is no other place in the world with the same characteristics. Rebuilt in 1693 following a violent earthquake, they today present a very regular layout and urban innovation, but embellished with the decorations typical of this artistic movement.
Modica is one of the only places on earth where cold-worked chocolate is still produced using the ancient Aztec technique: hand ground cocoa beans and sugar. This cold-working preserves more nutrients and more flavor than modern chocolate-making methods! Immerse yourself in a hands-on session, crafting your very own chocolate . Once crafted, the chocolate will be carefully stored in the fridge for a two-hour period. During this time, you can indulge in a tasting experience of Modica Chocolate products, featuring various flavoured chocolates, chocolate cookies, empanadillas, and chocolate liquor. After all, chocolate fixes everything!!!
Then on to beautiful Baglio Occhipinti and dinner inhouse this evening.
Overnight Accommodation: Baglio Occhipinti
Included Meals: Breakfast, Chocolate workshop, Dinner
Day 7 – Saturday 11: A wine lovers odyssey
Begin your delightful journey through the scenic landscapes of the Noto Valley with a fantastic Vittoria Wine Tour. This adventure will include the Occhipinti Winery, a beacon of organic viticulture and artisanal wine production. Your exploration will also pay a visit at the captivating Gulfi Winery, where dedication to the Nero d’Avola grape, Sicily’s quintessential varietal, is unmatched! Dive into the history of Sicilian winemaking, see the meticulous vineyard care, and understand the winery’s unique approach to blending tradition with innovation.
Firstly, Arianna Occhipinti Winery, where winemakers like Arianna breathe life into wine, treating it with the same reverence as a living being. Arianna, a talented and passionate winemaker, embodies a world of stories and atmospheres within Occhipinti’s small, organic cellar spread across 32 hectares of land. Here, the focus is solely on native Sicilian grape varieties—Frappato, Nero d’ Avola, Zibibbo, Albanello—each adding its unique character to the wines crafted. With an annual production of approximately 130,000 bottles, Arianna oversees every aspect of winemaking. In the vineyards, she meticulously performs 3/4 treatments a year, utilizing only copper and sulfur. Embracing the ‘sovescio’ technique, she fosters green manure and allows wild Mediterranean vegetation to flourish, nurturing biodiversity and naturally oxygenating the soil. At Occhipinti, wine isn’t just a product; it’s a living representation of Sicilian heritage and Arianna’s dedication to preserving nature’s essence within every bottle.
Then Cantine Gulfi, where the winery’s mission is to preserve the land handed down by ancestors, reflecting over 2000 years of history, culture, and labor, aiming to pass on an untouched land to future generations. Guided by the principle of Naturalness, their work produces wines marked by organic, traditional viticulture and non-invasive winemaking processes. The winery draws inspiration from the ancient myth of Eros and Psyche found in Piazza Armerina, symbolizing the secret love between Gulfi (Eros) and its beautiful land (Psyche), resulting in wines that represent pure pleasure (Voluptuousness).
Day 8 – Sunday 12: Regaleali via Villa Romana del Casale
Nestled in the heart of Sicily, near the town of Piazza Armerina, the Villa Romana del Casale is a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of Roman art and luxury. This ancient Roman villa, built in the 4th century AD, is renowned for its extraordinary mosaic floors, which are unparalleled in their beauty, size, and preservation. Spanning over 3,500 square meters, the mosaics depict vibrant scenes of daily life, mythology, nature, and even the famous “Bikini Girls”, showcasing the athletic activities of Roman women.
Each room tells a unique story, from grand hunting scenes in the “Hall of the Great Hunt” to intricate geometric patterns that display the artisans’ unparalleled skill. Walking through the villa, visitors can marvel at its ingenious architectural design, with opulent rooms, thermal baths, courtyards, and a sense of grandeur that reflects the wealth and status of its original owner, likely a high-ranking Roman official. Culturally, the villa represents a pinnacle of Roman innovation, wealth, and taste. It’s a rare glimpse into the private, opulent world of the elite, as well as a testament to the artistic brilliance of ancient artisans.
For Sicilians, it’s a source of immense pride—a jewel that showcases the island’s rich history as a cultural crossroads of the Mediterranean.
Lunch is at leisure and then continue to Tasca D’Almerita – Regaleali Estate, your home for the next two nights.
Overnight Accommodation: Tasca D’Almerita
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 9 – Monday 13: Trek the vineyards and then taste the wine
It is all here at this beatuiful wine estate, Regaleali!
At Regaleali, you can fully explore the property through the intriguing trekking trails among the vineyards, which stretch an impressive 28 km (17 miles) within the property. After an invigorating journey through the lush vines and scenic landscapes, relax in the blooming courtyard with a fine glass of wine. This experience offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of the Sicilian countryside, where each path reveals a new facet of the estate’s rich heritage and winemaking tradition. The combination of natural beauty, the art of winemaking and the comfort of relaxation creates an unforgettable experience that combines the joys of outdoor exploration with the pleasures of Sicilian hospitality and gastronomy.
Lunch and dinner are enjoyed here today, meaning a beautiful day of adventure and relaxation combined with beautiful wining and dining.
Overnight Accommodation: Tasca D’Almerita
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10 – Tuesday 14: The Valley of the Temples + an exclusive picnic at Diodoros Garden
After checking out this morning you head to Agrigento and meet your private guide at the Valley of the Temples.
Today is a big day: your private guide will orient you to one of the top highlights of your Sicilian sojourn. Prepare to witness something truly extraordinary: the exceptionally well-preserved Greek temples that stand as some of the most authentic remnants of antiquity worldwide.
Nestled within the renowned Valley of the Temples of Agrigento, this site in Italy draws countless visitors due to its unparalleled preservation. The Archaeological Park of Agrigento earned its place on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 1997, housing an invaluable collection of treasures. Among these, the pinnacle attractions are the three primary temples that majestically overlook the Via Sacra: the Temple of Juno, the Temple of Concordia, and the Temple of Hercules. For anyone who wanders through this area and gazes upon these temples that have graced the heights for 2,500 years, a profound sense of wonder inevitably transcends time, history, and the enduring legacy of ancient civilizations immortalized by the ages.
You will enjoy an exclusive picnic in the Diodoros Garden before heading to the beautiful Rocco Forte Verdura Resort!
Dinner is at leisure.
Overnight Accommodation: Rocco Forte Verdura Resort
Included Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch
Day 11 – Wednesday 15: Your day at leisure
Today is at leisure to do as you wish. Time out to enjoy the resort and all it has to offer for those who feel like just checking out for the day! Enjoy the pool, the Verdura Spa or of one the Sport Activities included in your stay. Enhance your wellbeing with a restorative treatment or a dip in the Thalassotherapy pools. Relax at the infrared or Finnish saunas. Take a yoga class and get your pulse racing in our well-equipped fitness studio. Or just kick back and read a book – the choice is yours!
OPTIONAL: AGRIGENTO BAY BOAT TOUR
The Agrigento Bay perfectly lends itself to some of the most scenic and impressive Boat tours in the Mediterranean! Two names would suffice, among the dozens of wonders you will see during your tour on the southwestern bay: the Scala dei Turchi and Torre Salsa nature reserve. The Scala dei Turchi – a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage Site – is surely one of Sicily’s greatest attractions, a masterpiece of nature that overlooks, with its white marl, the seas of Realmonte. The Nature Reserve and WWF Oasis of Torre Salsa, protects about 6 km of virtually untouched coastline with cliffs, dunes and enchanting beaches! The heart of the Reserve, within the wetland, is Torre Salsa: an ancient watchtower that dominates the top of a small clay promontory. Note this is at own expense and is not included in the tour price ad must be pre-booked.
Overnight Accommodation: Rocco Forte Verdura Resort
Included Meals: Breakfast
Day 12 – Thursday 16: Val di Kam
Discover Sicily’s Timeless Charm: Immerse yourself in tradition and tranquility.
Today unveils the heart and soul of Sicily—a land where tradition reigns supreme amidst breathtaking vistas and unhurried moments. The Sicani Mountains, nestled in central-southern Sicily, epitomise this essence. Your guide will whisk you away from the hotel to unlock a world steeped in authenticity and exclusivity! Journey to Val di Kam, where time meanders leisurely, mirroring the unhurried pace of grazing sheep and locals chatting over cards at the bar. Stroll through village lanes, savoring typical local delights and forging genuine connections with the locals. Pause for a delightful sampling of local cheeses paired with the cherished ‘pani cunzatu’. Indulge your senses with almond cookies, honey, artisanal wines, olive oil, and seasonal treasures—a taste-packed odyssey.
This is an immersion into life itself, where the true essence of a place reveals itself through the warmth of its people!
Overnight Accommodation: Rocco Forte Verdura Resort
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 13 – Friday 17: To Palermo via Marsala
Time to depart for the finale of this fabulous tour. Time to head to Palermo…
On the way a stop to be immersed in a wine and a salt experience…
Firstly, a Marsala wine tour where you’ll delve into the rich history and flavours of western Sicily! Explore one of the unique wineries to witness the intricate processes of winemaking and indulging in tastings of exquisite Marsala varieties. Beyond the vineyards, venture to the captivating Salt Pans, where centuries-old traditions of salt extraction unfold against the backdrop of stunning coastal landscapes.
Step into the ancient world of salt harvesting at the Ettore Infersa Salt Pans, a tradition that dates back to the Phoenicians and still thrives today. You’ll be introduced to this fascinating craft and explore the iconic Dutch-style windmill and climb to its terrace for stunning views of the saltworks, surrounded by shimmering basins and picturesque canals. Strolling along the paths, you’ll encounter the unique flora and fauna that call this enchanting landscape home.
Back inside, a true highlight awaits: a salt tasting and light lunch. Discover how hand-harvested salts vary in flavor and purpose, guided by a passionate Salt Sommelier. Sample a delightful spread of local treats—crusty bread, velvety olive oil, ripe tomatoes, creamy cheeses, and even dessert—perfectly paired with salt varieties that will surprise and delight your palate. It’s an immersive journey into the world of ‘white gold,’ where history, nature, and flavour come together in a truly unforgettable experience!
Then to Palermo and check in to your hotel. Dinner is at leisure.
Overnight Accommodation: Hotel Plaza Opera
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 14 – Saturday 18: Exploring Palermo and time for a little retail therapy
Today is your day to explore Palermo, the largest city in Sicily.
First, your foodie tour!
Palermo’s culinary heritage is a rich tapestry woven through centuries of cultural influences, reflecting its historical evolution and the diverse civilisations that have left their mark on the island. The culinary history of Palermo is a captivating narrative of cultural fusion. Its dishes are a testament to the city’s storied past, blending Arab, Norman, Spanish, and Italian influences. The Arab occupation introduced ingredients like couscous, dried fruits, and spices, shaping the foundation of Sicilian cuisine. Meanwhile, the Norman conquests brought a fusion of flavors, incorporating elements of French and northern European culinary traditions. One can taste history in every bite of Palermo’s iconic street food. The “panelle,” a chickpea fritter, traces its origins back to the Arab rule, while the “arancini,” fried rice balls, showcase the Spanish influence with their saffron-infused rice. The sweet and savory marriage of flavors in dishes like “caponata,” a Sicilian eggplant dish, reflects the intricate blend of cultures in the region. Even desserts narrate tales of bygone eras. Treats like “cassata,” a decadent cake with Arab origins, and “cannoli,” crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta, exemplify this blend of influences. Palermo’s culinary evolution mirrors the city’s historical fabric, where each dish tells a story of cultural exchange, adaptation, and innovation. This rich history has shaped Palermo’s food culture into the vibrant and diverse tapestry it is today.
Then time to explore your own Palermo – perhaps more history and culture or by now maybe just time for some retail therapy!
Your farewell dinner tonight is held in a local restaurant where you can talk about your journey and say fond farewells.
Overnight Accommodation: Hotel Plaza Opera
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 15 – Sunday 19: So long, farewell…
Your private English-speaking driver will be ready to pick you up for a private transfer to the airport. It’s time to say goodbye, but it’s more like a ‘see you later’ than a final farewell!
Thank you for coming away and we can’t wait to welcome you back for another amazing adventure! Until we meet again and buon viaggio!
Included Meals: Breakfast