by Openmind Travel Srl
Sede legale
Via Esperanto 2 – 11100 Aosta
Sede operativa
Via Bassi 60 – 35131 Padova
Ph. +39.0498256495
welcome@openmindtravel.it
P.IVA 05236340286
PEC:pec@pec.openmindtravel.it
A SENSORY JOURNEY TO THE CORNERS OF SICILY
A journey through captivating sensations, where every experience reveals a new piece of the mosaic that composes this island rich in culture and traditions.
Stroll among the hills, discovering the strong Sicilian agricultural tradition that celebrates this fertile land, tied to the ancient myth of fertility, in the company of gentle, soft-coated donkeys. Feel the coolness of robust olive trees sheltered from the gentle September sun, which produces rich and flavorful oil, and let yourself be intoxicated by the scent of peaches and ripe almonds nurtured by the summer sun. Savour gins infused with the scents of Sicily, fruits of the generous banquet that the land offers. Admire the vibrant baroque decorations of the palaces, echoes of a prosperous era of celebrations, opulence, and well-being, when Sicily competed as a vital centre of Europe. Listen to the songs and chatter of the inhabitants of the village of Calascibetta, brought together in the squares like a family by the religious festival; let yourself be thrilled by the lively buzz of voices filling the streets, a testament to the joyous spirit of this land. Embark on this journey and let yourself be intoxicated by a whirlwind of sensations, filling yourself with all the emotions that Sicily has to offer.
Crafted with meticulous attention, this trip is designed specifically for you.
We understand the immense value you place on your travel experiences —that’s why we dedicated ourselves tirelessly to crafting each aspect of your journey with precision and passion.
We deeply immerse in each destination. We take the time to uncover the best experiences, connecting you with locals who reveal the true secrets of their homeland—secrets known only to those who live there.
We meticulously select the most knowledgeable guides who can dive deep into the heart of each piece.
We choose only the most authentic experiences, accommodations, and culinary delights, carefully avoiding anything staged or inauthentic that could detract from the genuine essence of your trip.
Like master artisans, we refined every detail of your travel experience, ensuring that each element is flawlessly executed. So that you’ll look back with your heart full of enthusiasm and new perspectives once back home.
We’ll accompany you on a journey made of knowledge, unusual sensory experiences and extraordinary changes in perspective.
You’ll participe in experiential workshops and tastings that allow you to experience what would otherwise have been just a story, living what’s happening with intensity. Imagine getting to know and chatting with local artisans, testing your senses, and discovering, through direct experience, skills you didn’t think you had.
We chose destinations that have something authentic and profound to tell, far from traditional and overcrowded tourist routes. Being in contact with local communities, the peculiarities of each destination really come to light, from its history, art, food and wine, to the traditions and crafts
Transformative travel is more than just doing things; it’s about internalizing new sensations, thoughts, or behaviors.
To migrate to a higher level status, because when you travel consciously the journey itself transforms your existence.
You could live your trip by doing 100 things in 10 days, or live it dedicating attention, sensitivity and feeling.
Transfer and check in at the B&B.
Gourmet dinner at Tommy’s Wine
A cosy place where you can taste emotions. A small living room that welcomes you, as you once did when you received important guests, with a refined atmosphere. At Tommy’s Wine, you can savour the modern taste of vintage, traditional dishes from the Sicilian hinterland, which satisfy even the most refined palates. You can sip Sicilian and Italian wines for unconventional aperitifs.
Return to the B&B and overnight stay.
Breakfast with Kore Siciliae products
Excursion to the Byzantine village
The Byzantine Village is a place where archaeology and nature intertwine harmoniously. It is an ancient rock settlement nestled among centuries-old trees and conifers, where tombs, columbaria, millstones, qanats, and the Byzantine rock church still remain. The Byzantine Village tells the stories engraved in the rock by the people who have inhabited this place since prehistoric times. By crossing paths and stairways, you can get closer to the secrets of a distant past, discovering the true spirit of an island that has always been a crossroads of civilizations and cultures.
Packet lunch
Sensory walk with Silvia
Let yourself be enveloped by the sounds, colors and scents of the Sicilian landscape with Silvia, a knowledgeable guide and guardian of ancient local traditions. She walks among the almond trees, discovering a land that tells of fertility and culture at every step, you feel the deep beat of its history and its traditions. Walking among centuries-old olive trees, you will discover the deep bond that unites people to their land, a connection that is reflected in the unique flavors and agricultural practices passed down from generation to generation.
Free dinner at the Feast of the Madonna di Buonriposo in Calascibetta
Enter the heart of Sicilian tradition at the celebration of the Madonna di Buonriposo in Calascibetta and enjoy a free dinner among the festival stalls, savouring local culinary specialities in an atmosphere of genuine conviviality. In a setting that blends the sacred and the profane, you can explore the village streets illuminated by festive lights, listen to traditional songs, and immerse yourself in ancient local customs. Let yourself be swept up in the buzz of voices, the bright colours, and the inviting scents that fill the streets, experiencing the joyful soul of this land and discovering the deep bond that unites the inhabitants to these centuries-old traditions.
Accommodation in a B&B and overnight stay
Breakfast with Kore Siciliae products
Guided tour of the Roman Villa del Casale, a UNESCO heritage site and considered one of the most important examples of Roman mosaic in the world. Imagine a vast expanse of stone floors transformed into a mesmerizing tapestry of images, each tile a masterpiece crafted by skilled Roman hands. Let the gentle sunlight filter through the ancient walls, illuminating the mosaics and casting a warm light on the figures depicted inside. As you wander the halls of the villa, let your imagination transport you back in time to a world of emperors, gladiators and enduring beauty.
Lunch in a selected restaurant and free afternoon
Accommodation in B&B and overnight stay.
Breakfast with Kore Siciliae products
Experience in picking Leonforte PGI peaches, preparing and tasting jam
Among the serene hills where the seasons alternate in a harmonious rhythm, late peaches are born, and jewels of nature ripen under the gentle late summer sun from September to the end of October. Awarded the prestigious PGI recognition, they contain an unusually firm pulp, with shades of yellow and white. Less sweet than their summer cousins, these peaches offer a particular density and aroma and a measured sweetness. There is a ritual, almost sacred, in their care. Four months before harvesting, each fruit is delicately bagged, a gesture of love that protects its integrity and avoids the use of chemical treatments. This ancestral technique, which creates a sort of ideal microclimate, enhances the aromas and preserves the naturalness of the fruit, allowing it to absorb and intensify the best of the land that nourishes it. At the end of September, you can experience the peach harvest and taste it together with the jams and other excellent products of Angelo and Melania Manna.
Masterclass of botanical distillates and Sicilian gins
Nysuria (from the ancient name of the place where it was born, Nissoria) is an independent microdistillery based in the heart of Sicily. It oversees and selects its products at every stage, choosing the freshest raw materials and harvested botanicals, respecting the rhythms of nature and seasonal cycles. Join a masterclass to learn about their botanical distillates and “tailor-made” gins, crafted with Sicilian juniper and typical Sicilian ingredients.
Accommodation in a B&B and overnight stay.
Breakfast with Kore Siciliae products
Visit a local dairy and cheese-tasting
When you cross the threshold of the Raja dairy, you are greeted by the enthusiastic smile of Oriana, whose frank and affable manner embodies the authentic spirit of rural Sicily. With a straightforward yet affable demeanor, Oriana proudly shares the story of herself and her siblings, Paolo and Elisa. They have chosen to remain faithful to their land, not abandoning their roots, but continuing the family tradition by lovingly caring for their grandfather’s company. In this corner of paradise, nestled in the fertile Sicilian countryside, sheep and cattle graze and produce an extraordinary variety of zero-mile dairy products. During your visit, you will taste these products directly in their land of origin, where the authentic flavor of milk blends with the scents of fresh grass and the singing of birds: fresh mozzarella, provola, spicy cheeses, creamy yogurts, and the renowned Piacentinu DOP Ennese with saffron.
Guided tour of Enna
Known as the navel of Sicily, it holds the title of the highest capital in Italy. This city, a true belvedere, offers breathtaking views of the entire Sicilian landscape, embracing the whole island with its gaze. A melting pot of history, culture, architecture, and craftsmanship, its streets and squares tell stories ranging from Greek and Roman times to medieval and Baroque splendors. Explore the majestic Castello di Lombardia, one of the largest medieval castles in Italy, dominating the landscape from above with its 26,000 m². Visit the Rock of Ceres, home to the ancient sanctuary dedicated first to Demeter and then to Ceres, where you can feel the sacred energy of the place.
Continue with the Museum of Myth, the first entirely multimedia museum in Italy, transforming ancient myths into interactive and contemporary experiences, making them accessible to all. Admire the Cathedral of Enna, dedicated to Mary Most Holy of the Visitation, a national monument and UNESCO place of peace, which will welcome you with its impressive architecture and serene atmosphere.
Conclude your day with a walk to the Belvedere, a historic panoramic square considered the living room of the city, where you can enjoy spectacular views and immerse yourself in the liveliness of the historic center of Enna.
Free dinner at the Pizza Enna Fest.
Accommodation in a B&B and overnight stay.
Breakfast with Kore Siciliae products
Stroll among olive trees and tasting of extra virgin olive oil
Experience a moment of pure connection with the Sicilian land, exploring its paths and savoring its fruits. Walk the paths of Villa Gerace, immersed in the greenery of centuries-old olive groves. As you stroll, let yourself be enveloped by the intense scents of aromatic plants. Your experience continues with a sensory tasting of Villa Gerace’s extra virgin olive oil. Taste the purity of oil produced using organic methods, free from chemical fertilizers, and respecting the natural cycle of the local flora and fauna. Each drop contains the authentic flavors of Sicily, offering a taste journey that celebrates tradition and quality.
Continue with a zero-kilometer lunch, where you can enjoy fresh and organic products grown with respect for nature. The genuine flavors of the dishes will transport you into a unique culinary experience, enhancing the richness and variety of Sicilian cuisine.
Arrival in Monreale and visit the Cathedral
Visit the town of Monreale, famous for its magnificent cathedral, a splendid example of Norman art in Sicily. Inside, its mosaics, with their almost supernatural perfection, emanate a unique light, while the gazes of the saints seem to scrutinize every movement. The reflection of the coloured glass on the marble floors creates an unforgettable visual spectacle, leaving visitors enchanted. Finally, stroll on the terrace of the Duomo and enjoy the sunset with a breathtaking view of Palermo.
Accommodation at the hotel, dinner and overnight stay.
Guided tour of Palermo
After breakfast, you will be transported to the golden age of Palermo. Savour the Norman and Arab vibes with which the city is permeated, a melting pot of cultures that has led to the city’s vibrancy. Between 1700 and 1800, thanks to its industrial and commercial development and the great work of the Florio family, which gave the city great visibility throughout Europe, Palermo grew in wealth and splendour. Enter the most famous historical and popular markets, witness of that sparkling era, and admire the opulent baroque and neoclassical architecture: the Quattro Canti, the heart of the city, the Fontana Pretoria, Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio and Santa Caterina. Visit the solemn Teatro Massimo, the largest opera house in Italy and the third largest in Europe.
Showcooking at Donna Patrizia’s home
Have lunch at Casa di Donna Patrizia, where she will prepare traditional dishes for you, telling you about their origin and how to prepare them, in a domestic but refined environment.
Puppet show of the Argento family
After lunch, experience a Sicilian puppet show, a UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage. Watch knights and heroes come alive through intricately detailed puppets in a performance that preserves a cherished historical tradition. Every day, Vincenzo Argento, one of Palermo’s last puppet masters, continues a family legacy that dates back to 1893. Rain or shine, he opens his workshop near Palermo’s splendid cathedral, lighting his stove and crafting these puppets with passion and dedication since 1965.
Accommodation at the hotel, dinner and overnight stay
Optional visit to Palazzo Drago
Palazzo Drago, preserved intact for the last 200 years, is an impeccable example of authenticity and originality. Its richly decorated rooms tell stories of a golden age, where art and culture flourished under the patronage of one of Sicily’s most influential families. Admire the delicate frescoes that adorn the ceilings, the expertly carved period furniture, and the works of art that embellish every corner.
As you stroll through the opulent halls, marvel at the intricate details that evoke a vibrant and luxurious atmosphere. The scent of precious woods and ancient fabrics, the bright colors of the floral decorations, and the muffled sounds of footsteps on the marble floors will transport you back in time, offering you a complete sensory experience.
The visit to Palazzo Drago is not just a journey into history, but a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty and elegance of an era that left an indelible mark on Sicilian culture.
Transfer to the airport of Palermo
The travel itinerary may be subject to small variations based on causes of force majeure, climate or organizational adjustments.
When confirming the trip – once the minimum number of participants is reached – any relevant changes and/or updates will be communicated.
YOUR CUSTOM-MADE GIN BOTTLE
A VISIT TO A LOCAL CHEESE DAIRY AND CHEESE TASTING
KORE SICILIAE BREAKFAST
8 DAYS- 7 NIGHTs
3* HOTEL oR SIMILAR with BREAKFAST
PARTICIPANTS FROM 6 TO 12
5 nights at a charming B&B in the center of Enna with Kore Siciliae breakfast
2 nights at a 3-star hotel with breakfast in the center of Palermo
1 packed lunch
2 lunches at restaurants with traditional Sicilian dishes and water included
1 lunch with a show cooking event in the center of Palermo
1 gourmet dinner with traditional Sicilian dishes and water included
2 dinners with traditional Sicilian dishes and water included
2 visits to farms with workshops and tasting lunches
1 masterclass on refining your own gin
Tourist and environmental guides for each visit indicated in the program
Admission tickets to attractions included in the tour itinerary (Villa Romana del Casale, Byzantine Village, Monreale Cathedral, Palatine Chapel, Puppet Theatre)
Assistance of a tour leader (speaking Italian and English) for the entire duration of the trip
24/7 agency assistance
Tourist tax – mandatory to be paid on site
Single room supplement
Arrival and departure flights from Italy
Internal transfers will be quoted at the time of booking
Possible recommended activities during free time
Wine and alcoholic beverages during lunches and dinners
Other meals not indicated in the program
Personal expenses (e.g., bar service, concierge, laundry, tips, etc.)
“All Risks” travel insurance (to be requested as an extra at the time of booking)
Tourist tax – mandatory to be paid on site
All additional costs due to unforeseen circumstances not attributable to our organization (e.g., flight cancellations, fare increases, strikes or other events and natural disasters, emergency evacuations, etc.)
Everything not specifically included in the clause “The offer includes.”
The reservation must be made at least 15 days before the departure date of the trip
Payment must be made by bank transfer in the following ways:
20% Deposit upon booking confirmation (30% for countries outside the European Union)
80% balance 30 days before (70% for countries outside the European Union)
by Openmind Travel Srl
Sede legale
Via Esperanto 2 – 11100 Aosta
Sede operativa
Via Bassi 60 – 35131 Padova
Ph. +39.0498256495
welcome@openmindtravel.it
P.IVA 05236340286
PEC:pec@pec.openmindtravel.it
Kamelion è un progetto
Openmind Travel Srl
Sede legale
Via Esperanto 2 – 11100 Aosta
Sede operativa
Via Bassi 60 – 35131 Padova
Ph. +39.0498256495
welcome@openmindtravel.it
P.IVA 05236340286
PEC:pec@pec.openmindtravel.it