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Challenge Ride V: Smoking Sicily
Challenge Ride V: Smoking Sicily
Facing the Volcano. The Ultimate Sicilian Test.
From the lava fields of Mount Etna to Sicily's historic towns and spectacular coastline, this was a Challenge Series ride unlike any other.
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£1,250pp
25/11/2025
–
28/11/2025
Price excludes: flights, lunch/coffee stops, insurance, and spare parts.
Pick-up Airport
Treviso A. Canova (TSF) or Venice Marco Polo (VCE)
fitness level
Comfortable at 23kph+ on rolling terrain
Drop-off Airport
Treviso A. Canova (TSF) or
Venice Marco Polo (VCE)
Stay
Historic villa in Asolo (ensuite rooms)
Terrain
Road
Cuisine
Local produce, Prosecco stops, nightly gourmet dinners
distance
331 km
Ride Support
Njinga captains, van backup, stretch sessions
elevation
5,170 m
Events
Monte Grappa ride + Prosecco Gran Fondo (closed roads)
Sicily, you were smoking.
A journey through one of Italy's most captivating islands. We conquered Europe's highest active volcano, Mount Etna, twice. Explored historic hilltop towns and beautiful coastal villages, and experienced the warm hospitality, incredible food and unforgettable camaraderie that define every Njinga Challenge Series trip.
Highlights
- Conquered Europe's highest active volcano, Mount Etna twice
- Rode through vineyards, lava fields and dramatic volcanic landscapes
- Visited the beautiful coastal towns of Marzamemi and Capo Passero
- Explored the UNESCO World Heritage city of Ragusa
- Sampled the famous chocolate of Modica
- Experienced authentic Sicilian cuisine and hospitality
- Enjoyed quiet roads, spectacular scenery and beautiful beaches
Day-to-day Schedule
Day One
Warm-Up Meander
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| 49km | 390m
The trip began with a relaxed ride through the rolling countryside before reaching the beautiful fishing village of Donnalucata on Sicily's south coast. It was the perfect opportunity to test the bikes, stretch the legs and settle into Sicilian life. Dinner back at the team villa before an early start tomorrow.
Day Two
Mount Etna Challenge
| 104km | 2,960m
The signature challenge day saw riders take on the mighty Mount Etna, Europe's highest and most active volcanoes. With the option of one or two legendary Giro d'Italia climbs, it was a challenging day riding from lush vineyards to dramatic black lava fields high above the island.
Day Three
Capo Passero & Marzamemi
| 104km | 680m
A more relaxed day followed the stunning south-eastern coastline to Capo Passero, before exploring the colourful fishing village of Marzamemi for a delicious seafood lunch by the beach. Quiet roads, seaside cafés and plenty of authentic Sicilian charm made this a firm favourite. A fabulous day finished up with beers on the beach.
Day Four
Ragusa & Modica
| 74km | 1,140m
The final ride headed inland to the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage city of Ragusa, famous for its magnificent Baroque architecture. A stop for a memorable and traditional lunch with the locals before finishing up in nearby Modica to sample its world-famous chocolate. The perfect ending to an fantastic Sicilian adventure.
The Njinga Difference.
Most cycling trips feel transactional. Ours feel like family.
You’ll be welcomed like an old friend, fuelled like a champion, and supported like a pro. From epic climbs to espresso stops, and celebratory pasta feasts at the villa — this is what keeps riders coming back again and again.
"I made the best decision, from the minute I got off the plane the people were lovely and the atmosphere was so welcoming from everyone. The rides were hard but fun. And I felt I accomplished what I’d set out to do. The support by the ride captains was spot on."
Karen Baitup
The Njinga Difference.
Most cycling trips feel transactional. Ours feel like family.
You’ll be welcomed like an old friend, fuelled like a champion, and supported like a pro. From epic climbs to espresso stops, and celebratory pasta feasts at the villa — this is what keeps riders coming back again and again.
"I made the best decision, from the minute I got off the plane the people were lovely and the atmosphere was so welcoming from everyone. The rides were hard but fun. And I felt I accomplished what I’d set out to do. The support by the ride captains was spot on."
Karen Baitup
Accommodation
"Leigh and Togo, you both provided a wonderful break full of great cycling, great food and great fun. What an amazing team of two you are! We will return soon."
Kay & Patrick Keenan
local cuisine
"It exceeded all my expectations! Although the rides were challenging, everyone was really friendly, the atmosphere was relaxed and we had plenty of time for coffee and cake stops! The villa was great and the food was really delicious."
Martin Francis
Accommodation
"Leigh and Togo, you both provided a wonderful break full of great cycling, great food and great fun. What an amazing team of two you are! We will return soon."
Kay & Patrick Keenan
local cuisine
"It exceeded all my expectations! Although the rides were challenging, everyone was really friendly, the atmosphere was relaxed and we had plenty of time for coffee and cake stops! The villa was great and the food was really delicious."
Martin Francis
Everything you need to know before you commit
£1,250pp
(single room, ensuite)
£300 deposit secures your spot.
Final balance due 12 weeks before departure.
Elevate members save £60 (minimum 3 months’ membership)
Frequently asked questions
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