The wind in my hair, the sun on my face, and the roar (well, not really) of a BMW 700 GS beneath me—these were the sensations that accompanied me on my unforgettable motorcycle trip through Sicily.
My Motorcycle Trip to Sicily
Even though I spent a lot of time on this island when I was a kid, I decided to experience this trip a year ago, to remember my dad: his stories and places from his beloved Land. It was like experiencing these places for the first time, as I was riding through the Island. It made me more aware of every essence, color, and feeling, and I felt more connected with my memories.
Sicily's rugged landscape, dotted with ancient ruins and charming towns, provided the perfect backdrop for my adventure. As I rode through winding roads and steep hills, I felt a sense of freedom and exhilaration that only comes from exploring a place on two wheels.
But it wasn't just the thrill of the ride that made this trip so special. Sicily is a land of contrasts—from the turquoise waters of San Vito Lo Capo to the snow-capped peak of Mount Etna, each destination offers its unique charm. And the food! Oh, the food. From crispy arancini to creamy cannoli, every bite was a revelation. And let's not forget the wine – sipping a glass of Tifeo while watching the sunset over the Etna hills was a moment I'll never forget.
Experiencing the Essence of Sicily
Sicily is a land of opposites, where ancient ruins stand alongside modern cities, and coastlines give way to rolling hills and fertile valleys. The island's rich history and diverse cultural influences are reflected in its cuisine, architecture, and traditions.
During my motorcycle trip through Sicily, I was struck by the warmth and hospitality of the locals, who shared their stories and traditions with me. From the vibrant street markets of Palermo to Salemi and Parco delle Madonie, every corner of Sicily offered something new and exciting to discover.
The BMW 700 GS: My Ride Through Sicily
Renting a BMW 700 GS from Sicilia Moto for my motorcycle trip through Sicily was a solid decision. From the airport, I took an air train to Palermo Centrale, and the rental was just a few minutes walk by there. The bike was powerful enough to handle the winding roads and steep hills, yet light enough to maneuver through tight spaces and narrow alleys. Most important of all: is its comfortable seat and ergonomic design, ideal for riding for hours.
Riding through the different regions of Sicily was an adventure in itself. From the rugged coastline of San Vito Lo Capo to the mountainous terrain of Parco dei Nebrodi, every stretch of road offers breathtaking views and unique challenges.
Overall, it was an easy road trip with many sites to visit and stops in between. The only thing that I would note to the travelers is that shops and grocery are usually closed 1-4 PM for the lunch break. Ensure you'll have your own by noon!
Unforgettable Destinations: From San Vito Lo Capo to Bagheria
From the breathtaking coastline of San Vito Lo Capo to the charming town of Caltagirone, my motorcycle trip through Sicily was filled with unforgettable destinations.
The Tonnara di Scopello has a special place in my heart. I had a fantastic lunch with the view there, then the Riserva dello Zingaro offered the stunning essence of the Mediterranean Sea. Erice brought me to the end of my first epic day, providing a glimpse into medieval history.
On day two, I rode to the landscapes of Gibellina's Cretto, til the Turkish Stairs. I spent the night in Agrigento, where I had a night bike tour through the ancient ruins. The day after was all about getting on top of Mount Etna, an awe-inspiring sight. From here, Gambino Winery in the heart of the countryside was a delightful stop for wine tasting. The third night was in Taormina's picturesque streets, and on the fourth day I was surrounded by the Parco dei Nebrodi's enchanting lush forests. Finally, Madonie and Bagheria wrapped up the journey with their authentic Sicilian charm.
Tasting Sicily: Food and Wine Adventures
One of the highlights of my motorcycle trip to Sicily was undoubtedly the food and wine. I went to Sicily looking for specific tastes and foods printed in my memory forever. Every region we visited had its own unique specialties, from panelle in Palermo to brioche with gelato in Taormina. The flavors were so rich and distinct that I couldn't help but indulge in every opportunity to try something.
I ate fresh fish and mineral wine every day, my favorite was Tifeo from Gambino Winery. Had the most delicious -and ginormous- cannolo of my life in Erice, and the most indulgent pasta with pistachios pesto in Parco dei Nebrodi's Agriturismo.
Traveling to Sicily, it's also about food culture, and you will find that out as soon as you get there.
Final Thoughts: Why Sicily is a Must-Visit Destination
Sicily is a land of contrasts, where ancient ruins stand alongside vibrant cities, and sharp mountains give way to stunning beaches. My motorcycle trip through this beautiful Island was an unforgettable adventure that left me with a deep appreciation for its unique culture, history, and natural beauty.
From the charming Salemi to the majestic peaks of Mount Etna, every corner of Sicily offers something unique. The food and wine are simply divine, and the people are warm and welcoming. I highly recommend planning your own motorcycle trip to Sicily, as it truly is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a one-of-a-kind travel experience.
Itineraries day by day
Day 1: Palermo, San Vito Lo Capo, Tonnara di Scopello, Riserva dello zingaro. Night in Erice.
Day 2: Salemi, Cretto di Gibellina, Sciacca, Scala dei Turchi. Night in Agrigento
Day 3: Caltagirone, Mount Etna, Alcantara, Giardini Naxos. Night in Taormina.
Day 4: Parco dei Nebrodi, Parco delle Madonie, Cafalu, Bagheria, Palermo.
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