Our new range of adventure activities in Sicily is just the thing to keep energetic and inquisitive kids entertained on holiday. Choose from self-drive guided tours of Catania in an open-sided Ape Calessino, 4 x 4 jeep tours on Mount Etna and bike tours through the Alcantara Gorge. Each of these activities are perfect during October half-term and the cooler autumn months.
Exploring Catania, Sicilian-style: Whizz through the ancient alleyways of Catania’s UNESCO-listed historic centre in an iconic open-sided three-wheeler Ape Calessino, the ultimate tribute to vintage chic. The compactness of the vehicle means that you can easily access the narrowest of lanes without stressing about width restrictions or two-way traffic. Other highlights in Catania include the lively fish market, the Duomo and the Teatro Massimo Bellini opera house. Half-day rental from €120.
Jeep tours on Mount Etna: A visit to Europe’s highest and most active volcano is a real thrill for most kids. For families with younger children, a half or full day 4 x 4 jeep tour is the perfect solution for those who want to get slightly off-the-beaten-track. Tours are tailormade to accommodate all the family so might include a short walk to see an ancient or recent lava flow, a visit to a volcanic cave or stopping at an agriturismo for lunch. Half-day tours from €55pp.
Cycling in the Alcantara Valley: If cycling up Mount Etna seems too much like hard work, take the gentler option: a 30km medium-level mountain bike ride, departing from Gaggi and travelling through the natural beauty of the Alcantara Gorge. The cycle route follows the river, past plunge pools and the gorge’s spectacular black lava walls, against a backdrop of hazelnut trees and ancient vineyards. Half-day tours from €59pp.
Where to stay: Choose from a selection of villas in Sicily including Le Case dell’Etna, a cluster of three villas (sleeps 4-18) situated between the slopes of Mount Etna and the coast. The villas share two pools and a play area and are ideally located for each of these activities.