Cycling in Sicily, part four

A group of cyclists completed a challenging day-long ride through western Sicily, navigating rugged terrain and scorching temperatures as they explored ancient ruins and dramatic coastal landscapes. The journey began after a pleasant overnight stay in a seaside villa, with the riders heading toward the west coast of the island. From the start, the weather proved unforgiving, with temperatures quickly surpassing 35°C. The route featured a series of climbs and descents, testing both endurance and determination. The day started with several kilometers along a macadam road between the sea and the town of Palma di Montechiaro. This was followed by a three-kilometer climb over a hill, leading to a gradual descent into Fumalaro. Short ascents and descents continued throughout the morning, with the riders passing through Zingarellu before returning to the coastline. The landscape shifted from rolling hills to more rugged terrain as they passed through the villages of Villaggio Mosè and Portella, eventually reaching Agrigento. Agrigento, once known as Akragas, stands as one of the wealthiest and most influential cities of Ancient Greece. Today, it is renowned for its well-preserved Greek archaeological sites, including the Valley of the Temples, one of the best-preserved examples of ancient Greek architecture in the world. Listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage list, this site offers breathtaking views of the ancient temple of Concordia. Despite the oppressive heat, some cyclists opted to explore the excavations while others rested in the shade, taking in the grandeur of the temple complex. From there, the route took them through the picturesque towns of Porto Empedocle and Villaggio Bellavista, before turning onto the coastal road where they encountered one of Sicily’s most iconic natural landmarks, Scala dei Turchi, or the Turkish Steps. These white limestone cliffs cascade down to the sea, creating a stunning visual spectacle. The group paused to admire the view before continuing inland past Realmonte, where the path remained undulating with frequent climbs and descents. After a long descent towards Siculiani Marini, the riders faced a demanding five-kilometer climb, made even more challenging by the midday heat. They then descended through Montallegro and past Lake Gorgo, continuing their journey until reaching Sciacce. Along the way, they passed through the villages of Gemini Superiore, San Giorgio Timpirussi, and Lumia before arriving back at the coast in Sciacca, a town historically known for its thermal springs. Despite the long distances covered, traffic was minimal, allowing for a relatively smooth ride. In the afternoon, the group took a brief walk through the old town center before concluding the day at Capo San Marco, a headland offering panoramic views of the sea. Their accommodation for the night was located just steps away from the water at the tourist village of Residence Capo San Marco. With no nearby restaurants, the evening meal was enjoyed directly at the accommodation, providing a welcome respite after a day filled with heat, climbs, and unforgettable scenery. Meanwhile, another cycling adventure unfolded elsewhere, as the Meridiem Trail, a new initiative designed for cycling enthusiasts, was introduced. Spanning approximately 600 kilometers, the trail connects Austria, Hungary, and Slovenia, following historical Roman trade routes and offering a unique blend of culture, nature, and scenic beauty. The route is divided into twelve stages, each progressing southward in accordance with the direction of the sun, a concept inspired by the Latin phrase ad meridiem. The first six stages begin in Vienna and lead travelers through the Danube region, passing through vineyard-covered hills and historic towns. Stage one starts near the Urania Observatory in Vienna, with the route descending toward the southern bank of the Danube via the Danube Floodplain National Park. Subsequent stages take cyclists through wine regions, lakes, and mountainous areas, culminating in Graz, the capital of Styria. The second half of the trail enters Slovenia, marking a shift toward more rugged terrain as the route approaches the Alps. Stage eight begins in the Austrian town of Eibiswald, crossing into Slovenia via the Radljeski Prelog pass. Cyclists have the option of traveling by train or completing the ascent by bike, with the latter involving a steep climb to the Slovenian side. The Slovenian leg of the trail follows the Drava Bike route, a well-established and well-maintained cycling path connecting Radlje ob Dravi, Muta, and Dravograd. Stage nine continues through the Drava Valley, featuring a striking bridge spanning the river and leading to the Klopeiner See, one of the warmest lakes in Carinthia. The final stages wind through the lakeside towns of Klagenfurt, Bled, and Villach, ending with a ceremonial finish in the heart of Villach. Detailed route descriptions, elevation profiles, and GPX files can be accessed through the official Meridiem Trail website via the Ride with GPS application.