Ride Director: Syd Smoot
Ride Co-Director: Mark Annis
Report by: Debbie Weniger
Thirty five BAC members experienced an amazing bicycle tour under the leadership of Syd Smoot and his two competent assistants: Mark and Gary Annis. The planning, and execution in organising every detail while cycling in Sicily were extremely commendable. The web site they created months prior to the trip was detailed and precise. All prior questions were addressed and ironed out with diligence in a timely manner.
The group was met by greeters, Sonia Sandomer and Terry Dawson, who made sure that everyone who needed transport from Catania Airport to our first hotel, Villa Favorito Noto, were accounted for.
The Villa is a luxurious Italian villa built by a Marquis in the 18th century. His descendants continue to own and operate the hotel where they produce their own wine and olive oil. The staff was very helpful and attentive to our needs.
This is a split base ride which meant we stayed 5 days in Noto and 5 days in Ragusa Ibla. Both towns are UNESCO World Heritage sites due to their preservation of baroque architecture with history dating back to around 733 B. C. The hotels we stayed in were comfortable, luxurious, and conveniently located. We were able to cycle to other World Heritage sites such as Siracusa, Ortigia, Scicli, Modica and Palazzolo. These sites continue to retain their baroque medieval charm even after the devastating earthquake of 1693.
Cycling in the Southeast part of Sicily was an exceptional experience in so many levels. The ride which was labelled approximately 3B, presented challenging hills, endorphin producing downhills, picturesque wild flowers, gelato lined pit stops, scrumptious breakfast buffet, stimulating happy hour, visual and palate pleasing dinners and Sicilian wines which deserves its own special report.
Most riders were able to rent high quality bikes which needed tweaking to accommodate personal comfort. The rides averaged 35- 40 miles with approximately 2800 elevation gain.
The bike rental company was very easy to work with. Some rented e- bikes which provided enjoyment for those who would have struggled with the elevation. The GPS tracks were invaluable!
It rained only once during the entire tour and our weather reporter, Mark Annis, was spot on 9 out of 10 day forecast. Great batting average!
The timing to do this tour was impeccable because we were able to appreciate the Infiorata (flower) Festival while in Noto, and the San Giorgio religious festival while in Ragusa Ibla. Both festivals showcased the town’s celebration which we were lucky enough to observe. During our day off, we were able to visit Agrigento’s Valle Di Templi, Sicily’s most important archeological site, comparable to the Parthenon in Greece.
Ride leader, Syd Smoot, rode with the group everyday to lead us thru special towns and places to eat. His two assistants also took turns leading groups who might choose a more challenging route and distance. Everyone appreciated their leadership and assistance when needed.
On the second to the last day, the Ride Leader, arranged a special dinner on the outskirts of Ragusa Ibla. We were transported to enjoy a 4 course mouth watering meal at a secluded and relaxing restaurant with great views of the Duomo. It finished with one of the best fireworks display that most of us have ever seen. The fireworks culminated the celebration of the feast of St. Giorgio.
On our last evening, we were entertained by Dr. Richard Durisen, an author of science fiction. He mesmerised us by reading an excerpt of the book he finished while vacationing with his wife in Sicily. To read more of Dr. Durisen’s previously published book, see durisen.com.
This was truly an experience of a lifetime. We all agreed that the entire cycling experience was a success.
Thank you Syd, Mark and Gary.
Bicycle Adventure Club
PO BOX 23998 San Diego, CA 92193
Telephone (858) 715-9510 office@bicycleadventureclub.org