Set out on a private cycling adventure through the picturesque hills surrounding Palermo. Explore the vibrant Albanian community, learn about the region’s rich heritage, and indulge in the iconic Sicilian treat – the cannoli. This captivating journey blends scenic cycling with culinary delights, offering an unforgettable experience for those who seek to uncover the enchanting landscapes and cultural treasures of Sicily.

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Key Points

Discover the rich Albanian heritage and culture in Sicily through a private bike tour around the hills of Palermo.
Indulge in freshly made cannoli, a specialty of Piana degli Albanesi, the epicenter of the cannoli tradition in Sicily.
Explore the stunning golden mosaics and architectural blend of the Monreale Cathedral, a 12th-century Norman edifice.
Enjoy a scenic ride along an old disused railway, offering tranquility and a chance to appreciate the engineering feat.
Participate in a small-group tour limited to 10 participants, with a simple reservation process and flexible cancellation policy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Albanian Community in Sicily

As visitors embark on this bike adventure, they’ll have the opportunity to discover the rich history and vibrant culture of the Albanian community in Sicily.

The tour takes riders to Piana degli Albanesi, a town known for its preserved Albanian traditions and renowned for its cannoli.

Piana degli Albanesi, a town renowned for its preserved Albanian traditions and delectable cannoli.

Guests will learn about the unique Albanian influence on the region, dating back to the 15th century when Albanians sought refuge in Sicily.

This cultural exploration adds depth to the cycling experience, offering a glimpse into the diverse tapestry of Sicily’s heritage.

Looking for more options in Monreale? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Piana Degli Albanesi: the Home of Cannoli Tasting

Nestled in the rolling hills of Sicily, Piana degli Albanesi is the epicenter of the region’s celebrated cannoli tradition.

This picturesque town is home to generations-old family bakeries, each with its own secret recipe for the iconic Sicilian pastry.

Visitors can stroll through the charming streets, admiring the distinctive Albanian architecture, before indulging in a freshly-made cannoli.

The creamy ricotta filling, dusted with powdered sugar, is a true delight.

Piana degli Albanesi’s cannoli are renowned throughout Italy, attracting foodies from near and far to this Albanian enclave in the heart of Sicily.

Discovering the Monreale Cathedral’s Golden Mosaics

Towering over the surrounding hills, the Monreale Cathedral stands as a testament to Sicily’s rich cultural heritage.

This magnificent 12th-century Norman edifice boasts stunning golden mosaics that cover its vast interior. Visitors are captivated by the intricate biblical scenes and vibrant depictions of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and various saints.

The cathedral’s architecture seamlessly blends Byzantine, Islamic, and Western influences, creating a truly awe-inspiring space.

The cathedral’s architecture seamlessly blends Byzantine, Islamic, and Western influences, creating a truly awe-inspiring space.

Exploring the Monreale Cathedral’s opulent halls is a highlight of the Bike&Cannoli adventure, offering a glimpse into the island’s complex history and artistic brilliance.

Scenic Ride Along the Old Disused Railway

After exploring the magnificent Monreale Cathedral, the bike tour takes cyclists on a scenic ride along an old disused railway.

This tranquil stretch offers a unique opportunity to:

Admire the lush greenery and rolling hills that line the former tracks.
Indulge in a moment of peaceful reflection, far from the bustling city streets.
Appreciate the engineering feat of constructing a railway through such rugged terrain.
Imagine the trains that once carried passengers and goods through this picturesque landscape.

The serene ride provides a welcome respite before the next adventure.

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Admiring the Natural Beauty of Lake of Piana

The bike tour now heads to the Lake of Piana, a protected WWF Italy area known for its natural beauty.

The group will admire the tranquil waters and lush vegetation surrounding the lake. This pristine environment is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

The tranquil waters and lush vegetation of the Lake of Piana provide a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

The scenic ride along the old railway track leads the cyclists to this picturesque destination, where they can pause and take in the serene atmosphere.

With its unspoiled landscapes and ecological significance, the Lake of Piana offers a glimpse into the natural wonders that Sicily has to offer.

Returning to the Starting Point: Sicicla

As the cyclists take in the last sights of the Lake of Piana, they begin their journey back to the starting point at Sicicla.

The scenic ride through the rolling hills offers a chance to reflect on the day’s adventure. The group whizzes past charming villages, winding roads, and lush greenery.

Upon arrival at Sicicla, they:

Return their bikes and gear, feeling a sense of accomplishment.
Indulge in a final cannoli tasting, savoring the sweet ricotta filling.
Bid farewell to the guide, exchanging stories and fond memories.
Depart with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and culture of Palermo’s countryside.

Booking and Cancellation Details

Reserving a spot on the Bike&Cannoli adventure is simple and flexible.

There’s no upfront payment required – just reserve your spot and pay later. If plans change, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, no questions asked.

The meeting point is at Sicicla Ecotourism Headquarters near the city harbor. The tour is limited to 10 participants, so book early to secure your spot.

With free cancellation and no deposit, it’s easy to plan your Palermo bike and cannoli adventure. Just come prepared with your ID, comfortable gear, and an appetite for exploring Sicily’s history and landscapes.

Preparation and Restrictions for the Adventure

To make the most of the Bike&Cannoli adventure, participants should come prepared. The activity has some key restrictions:

Leave the baby stroller, large bags, alcohol, glass objects, and any nudity at home.
Dress smart casual – no need for fancy attire, but avoid wearing workout gear.
The minimum age is 14 years, and the maximum weight is 130 kg. Participants need moderate physical fitness to ride the ebikes.
Vegetarian options are available upon request.

Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hat, camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, and any necessary medications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Bicycle Instead of Using the Provided Ebike?

Bringing your own bicycle is generally not allowed on this tour. The tour provides eBikes for participants, which are necessary for the scenic ride along the old disused railway. Using your own bike would not be suitable for this activity.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The activity does not offer any discounts for students or seniors. The price of $136.53 per person is fixed, regardless of age or student status. There are no special pricing options available.

How Much Time Is Allotted for the Cannoli Tasting Experience?

The itinerary includes a stop for cannoli tasting, but the exact duration is not specified. Participants can likely enjoy the local pastries during a brief break, though the length of this experience is not clearly defined in the details provided.

Can I Choose to Skip the Monreale Cathedral Visit if I’m Not Interested?

Yes, you can choose to skip the Monreale Cathedral visit. The itinerary includes it as an optional entrance fee, so you don’t have to go if you’re not interested. The tour allows you to customize your experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Bike Adventure?

Yes, there’s an option to extend the bike adventure. Travellers can arrange for a longer tour duration with the tour operator, subject to availability and additional costs. The standard tour lasts 1 day, but extensions can be requested.

The Sum Up

The bike&cannoli adventure offers a unique opportunity to explore the picturesque Sicilian landscape, take in the rich heritage of the Albanian community, and indulge in the region’s culinary delights. The scenic cycling tour, culminating in a delightful cannoli tasting, promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to discover the hidden gems of this enchanting corner of Sicily.

You can check availability for your dates here: