Circular itinerary starting from Syracuse, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
The route begins in Syracuse, “the most beautiful, the most noble of Greek cities” (Livy), now a World Heritage Site. The oldest part of the centre is Ortigia: a small island connected to the rest of the city by two bridges.
Continue south to the Fontane Bianche beach for a regenerating swim before reaching Noto, the “Baroque Capital” and also a World Heritage Site. Follow the Vendicari nature reserve to Marzamemi, an ancient village known for its fascinating history of tuna fishing and preservation in the Tonnara. Continue in a south-westerly direction to Pozzallo, with its Cabrera tower.
Towards Ragusa
The second stage will take you to another charming seaside village: Sampieri. From here, you leave the sea and head towards the Iblei mountains until you read the sign Sciclia town known for being the set of TV series “Il Commissario Montalbano”. Next stop is Modica, where you must taste the cold-processed chocolate of the same name. Now follow the Irminio river valley to Ragusa, a town dominated by the majestic Cathedral of San Giorgio, the quintessence of Baroque style.
Finally, the last stage leads back to Syracuse. Proceeding along the scenic state road, you pass the lake of Santa Rosalia to Giarratana, famous for its onions. Passing through Palazzolo Acreide, head west and downhill to the end of this fascinating loop itinerary.
