Trying to log in to online classes? Login here.

Sicilian Cuisine and Culture
March 24-30, 2023
Sold Out!

Join Laurel Attanasio for a new and exciting adventure to Sicily!

This adventure will take place on the East Coast of Sicily where Mt Etna looms over you and the sea surrounds you.


Explore beautiful landscapes. Learn about the Island’s Ancient Greek history. Enjoy fabulous food and wine.

Why is this adventure like no other?

This 6 night/ 7 day adventure will take place along the beautiful East Coast of Sicily. We will explore ancient Greek theaters, sleepy fishing villages, Sicilian markets, hillside Baroque towns, beachside nature reserves and gorgeous wineries. Our mornings will begin in our countryside private villa with views of Mt. Etna and the sea. Here, we will enjoy breakfast, yoga and strolls through the mass property that includes olive and orange groves. Our afternoons, will be spent exploring coastal villages and historical sites. Evenings will be spent enjoying amazing food, wine and vistas. This adventure will pleasure all senses. Bonus: Our fully-staffed luxury villa only has 11 rooms keeping this adventure extremely intimate.

The Destination

East Coast of Sicily

The East Coast of Sicily is a perfect location to enjoy the sea, countryside, history, culture and, of course, fabulous food and wine. With Mt. Etna and the sea surrounding you, there is always a beautiful view. The seaside villages of Taormina, Ortigia and Siracusa not only have some of the best vistas in Europe, but they also have some of the oldest Greek theaters and monuments. The quiet fishing village of Marzamemi will take your breath away. And, you will be in awe of the Architecture of the Baroque town of Noto. The influences of the Greeks, Romans, Spanish, German, French and Arab Nations have created a colorful and eclectic culture in Sicily. This will all become apparent while exploring the Island. Most importantly, this unique cultural mix will provide a variety of mouth-watering culinary treasures as well as excellent wine. You will learn this first-hand while visiting two distinctly different, yet both amazing, wineries.

Where You'll Stay

Commenda di San Calogero

Your home away from home for this adventure will be a countryside, fully-staffed luxury villa perfectly located to explore the East Coast of Sicily. Upon entering the majestic blue gates of San Calogero, breathtaking views of Sicily’s natural landscape will greet you with olive and citrus groves, lush greenery and blooming flowers. The villa is encompassed by magnificent views of the sea and Mt. Etna. Set on 110 acres, the Commenda di San Calogero is surrounded by lavish gardens, numerous shaded seating areas, peaceful look-outs and secluded benches that offer absolute privacy and space for relaxation.

 

Additionally, the original buildings have been completely restored to provide you with the finest of modern comforts, all while maintaining the charm of an aristocratic luxury home. Each beautifully furnished bedroom has a striking en-suite bathroom, as well as an independent entrance. Most of the rooms surround a vast open courtyard, a perfect place to relax after a long day of exploration. The villa’s traditional Sicilian architecture creates an elegant atmosphere to enjoy breakfast in the morning or a cool drink in the afternoon under the Sicilian sun. To help you further relax, the property has a spa, including marble saunas inspired by Istanbul as well as space for massages.

 

The estate is located in north Syracuse, conveniently located only a short distance away from Catania airport. This opportune location offers the ability to visit the entire southeast region of Sicily, including UNESCO heritage sites, all within a short drive.

What's Included:

  • Accommodations at the beautiful, fully-staffed Commenda di San Calogero located on 110 acres surrounded by views of the sea and Mt. Etna.
  • Daily Yoga and Meditation in San Calogero’s enchanting gardens surrounded by olive and citrus groves.
  • Welcome Dinner, including Wine
  • Farewell Dinner, including Wine
  • Additional Dinner at the Villa
  • Daily Breakfast overlooking the villa gardens
  • 3 Lite Lunches at your private villa
  • Two Sicilian Cooking Lessons
  • Two Evenings with Fireside Aperitifs
  • Guided Walks of the villa property
  • Catania Market Excursion with Chef from the Villa
  • Private Transfers for all excursions
  • Entry to Vendicari, a stunning seaside nature reserve, which has often been named one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy.
  • Noto Doc Wine Tour and Tasting at Planeta Buonvini. You will also enjoy an aperitif and appetizers with local ingredients as well as an olive oil tasting.
  • Visit to the hillside Baroque town of Noto. Here, the main cathedral and the town itself are world UNESCO Heritage Sites.
  • Visit Marzamemi, a picturesque sleepy fishing village.
  • Wine Tour, Tasting and 5 Course Lunch and Pairing at Barone di Villagrande on the hillside of Mt. Etna.
  • Visit Taormina, a beautiful village perched high above the sea, which is home to a Greek Theatre dating back to the 3rd Century BC
  • Guided Tour of the Greek Theater of Syracuse and the Archaeological Park of Neapolis a UNESCO site
  • Guided Walking Tour of the Island of Ortigia

What's Not Included:

  • Not much!!
  • Flight to Italy/Sicily.
  • Transportation to the Villa; however, Laurel will help you plan and organize. See below for more details.
  • Some meals not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Wine and alcohol not listed with meals. Wine will be available for purchase at the Villa.
  • Optional excursion for Day 6
  • Souvenirs
  • Trip insurance and Travel Health Insurance is NOT included, but they are HIGHLY recommended; World Nomads has a lot of options. Take a look at Travel Insurance 101, a resourceful page that will help you get the coverage you need. Please also review the Booking Terms!
  • Any additional evenings in Italy before or after. However, great recommendations can be provided!

The Finer Details

Register Now

To register for this trip, you must submit a non-refundable and non-transferrable deposit of $800. Once registered via the form below, you will receive a Square invoice to pay your deposit by credit card. Please read through the Booking Terms before making your investment.