Getting on/off motorcoach. Drive up to 1.5 hours. Climb approximately 100 wide, low steps to reach the Monreale Cathedral; a taxi can be taken from the bus stop at the base of the stairs for 2 Euro per person each way. The Group Leader will accompany those who wish to take the taxi.
At the hotel, we’ll have a buffet, plus coffee, tea, juice, water.
Boarding the motorcoach, we will meet with our historian and our day begins with a field trip to the nearby town of Monreale, where we will have an expert-led visit to the Duomo and Chiostro dei Benedettini. Our historian will illustrate the history on Monreale, its cathedral, and the Benedictine cloister. Built in the 12th century, the cathedral of Monreale is a national monument of Italy and a pristine example of Norman architecture. Despite its sparsely decorated exterior, the cathedral’s true beauty lies within its two sets of Romanesque bronze doors. Decorated by Sicilian, Italian, and Byzantine craftsmen, the cathedral is a blend of eastern and western influences. Next door lies the impressive Chiostro dei Benedettini, a Benedictine cloister known for the impressive detail and design of the 216 columns lining its courtyard. After exploring Monreale, we’ll return to the motorcoach for our ride to Camporeale, a hidden treasure in the Madonie Mountains. Here, we’ll find a family who has been producing local wines since the 1800s. We will be led through the winery by their expert enologist.
At a local winery in Camporeale, we will have a light lunch accompanied by a wine tasting.
Riding back to the hotel, we will be joined by an art historian for an introduction to the peoples of Sicily and their influence on local food. As an island in the Mediterranean, Sicilian gastronomy has been influenced by cultures from across Europe and Northern Africa.
At a local restaurant in Palermo, we’ll have a plated meal featuring regional cuisine and fresh seafood, plus a glass of wine, coffee, mineral water; other beverages available for purchase.
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.