Deep Sicily
Discover the heart of Sicily on an unforgettable horseback adventure through ancient landscapes, remote villages and the island's beautiful heartlands. The Deep Sicily Trail takes you well beyond the usual tourist routes, travelling from the wild Madonie Mountains into a fascinating interior shaped by centuries of history, farming and tradition. Over six full days of riding, you'll follow old pathways through rolling wheat fields, eucalyptus forests and peaceful valleys, discovering remarkable places that few visitors ever see. Explore the cave dwellings and rock-cut castle of Sperlinga, ride past mysterious medieval fortresses and ancient archaeological sites, and visit the magnificent Roman mosaics of Villa Romana del Casale.
Each evening brings a warm Sicilian welcome at a carefully chosen country hotel or traditional agriturismo, where generous home-cooked meals showcase the island's exceptional local produce. With long days in the saddle, varied terrain and the opportunity for some exhilarating riding, this is a rewarding adventure for confident, experienced riders who want to discover the real Sicily.
itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Sicily
Arrive at Palermo Airport, where you will be met and transferred to Casa Il Bosco, a beautifully restored nineteenth-century country house in the Madonie Natural Park. Surrounded by peaceful countryside, the property enjoys wonderful views towards Sicily's northern coastline and the Aeolian Islands. Settle into your accommodation and meet your fellow riders over a delicious dinner prepared using local produce.
Day 2 – Madonie Mountains to Casalvecchio
Approximately 7.5 hours riding
After breakfast, meet your horse and begin your adventure with a climb through Mediterranean woodland and wild mountain scenery, enjoying spectacular views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Passing near the historic town of Castelbuono, you'll stop for a picnic beside an old watermill before following the beautiful Pollina River valley into one of Sicily's most remote and unspoilt areas. Your destination is Agriturismo Casalvecchio, where a traditional farmhouse dinner awaits.
Day 3 – Casalvecchio to Nicosia
Approximately 6.5 hours riding
Today's ride follows old country tracks and open pastures towards the extraordinary village of Sperlinga. Famous for its ancient cave dwellings and remarkable castle carved directly into the rock, this is one of Sicily's most fascinating historic settlements. Stop for a picnic lunch and explore the village before continuing to Baglio San Pietro, a beautifully restored seventeenth-century farmhouse near Nicosia, where you can relax beside the swimming pool before dinner.
Day 4 – Nicosia to Agira
Approximately 7 hours riding
Descend into the valley of the Salso Cimarosa River, riding through peaceful countryside beneath the rugged peaks of the Erean Mountains. After a picnic near Nissoria, continue through eucalyptus woodland and rolling hills towards Agira, deep in Sicily's agricultural heartland. Leave the horses for the night and take a short transfer to the historic hilltop town, where you'll stay at Case al Borgo, surrounded by atmospheric cobbled streets.
Day 5 – Agira to Agriturismo Bannata
Approximately 7.5 hours riding
Ride across expansive fields of grain and gently undulating countryside towards the dramatic ruins of Castello di Pietratagliata. Perched on a jagged outcrop, this mysterious medieval fortress makes a memorable setting for your picnic lunch. In the afternoon, pass through the historic landscape of Monte Rossomanno before following sandy woodland tracks through eucalyptus and pine forests to Agriturismo Bannata, a welcoming rural hotel with a swimming pool.
Day 6 – Agriturismo Bannata to Il Mandorleto
Approximately 7 hours riding
Continue your journey through quiet valleys and fragrant eucalyptus forests towards Montagna di Marzo, a little-known archaeological site that offers a glimpse into Sicily's ancient past. Explore the area on horseback before enjoying a picnic lunch. The afternoon takes you through open countryside to Agriturismo Il Mandorleto, a traditional rural property known for its almond production. Enjoy another delicious Sicilian dinner and a relaxing evening.
Day 7 – Il Mandorleto to Piazza Armerina
Approximately 6 hours riding
Your final riding day takes you through rolling farmland, wheat fields and peaceful woodland towards the lake at the Olivo Dam. After a picnic in the forest, descend through a scenic valley to reach one of Sicily's greatest archaeological treasures, the UNESCO-listed Villa Romana del Casale. Explore its remarkable fourth-century Roman mosaics before continuing to Torre di Renda, a charming hotel near the medieval town of Piazza Armerina, for your final evening together.
Day 8 – Departure
After breakfast, say goodbye to your hosts and transfer to the airport for your journey home.
The itinerary may be adjusted according to weather, trail conditions or other operational requirements.
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Deep Sicily
Mini-brochure PDF
know before you go
This trail is suitable for experienced intermediate and advanced riders who are confident and comfortable at walk, trot and canter in open countryside. Riders should have plenty of experience riding outside an arena and be able to maintain control of their horse over varied and sometimes challenging terrain. There are opportunities for long trots and gallops where the ground conditions allow.
A good level of physical fitness and riding stamina is essential, as you will spend approximately 6–8 hours in the saddle each day for six consecutive days. The terrain includes mountain paths, forest tracks, open countryside and agricultural land, with some steep climbs and descents. This is a demanding point-to-point trail and is not suitable for beginners or riders with limited riding experience.
Your hosts and guides are Alexandre Morello and Lizzie Reeves, the passionate team behind Ride Sicily. Alex, who is half French and half Sicilian, grew up in the Madonie Mountains and has been organising and guiding horse riding excursions across Sicily since 2005. Having studied Cultural Tourism Sciences at Palermo University, he has an exceptional knowledge of the island's landscapes, biodiversity, history and culture, and loves sharing its hidden treasures with visiting riders.
Lizzie is English and has been riding since the age of five. After studying French and Italian at Oxford University and working as a solicitor in London, she decided to follow her passion for horses and Sicily. She joined Alex in running Ride Sicily in 2018 and became a full-time riding guide in 2019. Together, they are dedicated to introducing riders to Sicily's spectacular countryside, fascinating history and wonderful food and wine.
Between them, Alex and Lizzie speak English, French, Italian and Sicilian, ensuring a warm welcome for international guests.
This trail is designed for experienced riders who enjoy exploring new landscapes and spending long days in the saddle. You'll ride for approximately six to seven and a half hours each day, crossing a variety of terrain including mountain paths, old rural tracks, woodland and open agricultural countryside. The pace varies according to the ground and conditions, with opportunities for longer trots and faster riding where suitable. The horses are provided ready to ride each morning, so guests are not expected to groom or tack up. Comfortable English saddles with saddlebags are used. A good level of riding fitness is essential, as this is a genuine point-to-point expedition rather than a leisurely riding holiday.
Price includes
Price Excludes
Accommodation
Throughout the trail, you'll stay in a selection of traditional Sicilian agriturismi, charming bed and breakfasts and comfortable country hotels. Each property has been chosen for its character, welcoming atmosphere and connection to the local area. Accommodation ranges from restored historic farmhouses to peaceful rural retreats, with some properties offering swimming pools. The experience is an important part of the holiday, giving you the opportunity to enjoy authentic Sicilian hospitality and discover different corners of the island. Your luggage is transported between accommodation each day, so you only need to carry your essentials while riding.
Food is a highlight of this holiday, with delicious Sicilian cuisine served throughout the week. Evening meals feature fresh, locally sourced ingredients and regional specialities, often including antipasti, pasta, a main course and dessert, accompanied by local wine. Each riding day includes a generous picnic lunch, brought by the support vehicle and served with tables and chairs. Expect fresh bread, cheeses, salads, olives, charcuterie and other Sicilian specialities, with drinks and coffee or tea. All meals are included from dinner on arrival day to breakfast on departure day.
Deep Sicily
Booking Conditions
See the full booking conditions specific to this trail here.Do not book your flights until you have received your booking confirmation email from SaddleTravel.com
Flight and transfer information
- Arrival airport: Palermo Airport (PMO) or Catania (CTA)
- Arrival time: Before 18.00
- Departure time: Book onward flights for after midday on Day 8
- Transfer arrangements: Airport transfers are included from/to Palermo or Catania
Single room supplement: £285 per person for a guaranteed single room (not payable for riders willing to share and a sharer can be found)