Flying into Catania. Planning to stay in Siracusa for first three nights then Noto for two nights, then Ragusa for 1, then Argiento, then Enna for two nights (see See Piazza Aremenia)..
best Scenic hikes wildflowers suggestions in these areas?
We will have a car and I think distances are short. Any must see off the beaten track hill towns along the way.
any itenary modifications suggested?
Not totally off the beaten track, but Modica and Scicli are also down in the SE corner of Sicily.
The historic part of Noto is truly tiny, and the town is very close to Siracusa. It's definitely worth a visit, but there's a lot more to see in Ragusa. The Sicilian trains are not noted for their speed, yet it only takes about half an hour to get to Noto from Siracusa. Rather than going to the trouble of changing hotels for just one night there, I'd plan to drive there in the morning, see the town, and then drive on to Ragusa, possibly stopping in Scicli or Modica (conceivably even both if you get an early start) on the way. Spend two nights in Ragusa and you've still saved a night to use elsewhere.
To pull this off without risking your belongings, you must leave nothing visible in your car while you're off sightseeing on foot. This is not just important in Sicily; the need for this practice applies everywhere. In addition, you must not pull into a parking lot, open your trunk, and place anything in it. That must be done elsewhere.
Are you flying out of Catania? It has an attractive historic district.
Definitely agree about Modica and Scicli.
For nature Riserva Vendicari not far from Noto.
Near Siracusa Riserva Plemmirio
Distances may look short but if you venture off the main highways, you will be surprised at how long it takes. Beautiful, but long. We had dense fog for a long mountainous stretch.
Aren't you staying overnight in Agrigento? Visit The Valley of the Temples one day and the Archeological Museum the next morning. Piazza Armerina and the Villa Casale Romana don't take as much time to see as the Valley of the Temples, to do them justice at least.
In Noto, make an advance reservation to dine at Manna.
We enjoyed staying at Terre dei Limoni near Noto, close to the beach. They have small cabins and include a good breakfast buffet. We were there last March for several nights and it was a pleasant and peaceful place to stay after sightseeing in cities.
If you are not familiar with the Inspector Montalbano tv series, it would be a great one to watch before you go. The setting for the show is Ragusa. If you are up for it, doing a tour specifically focused on the series could be fun too! The series is based on the books by Andrea Camilleri. Definitely worth a read if you prefer!
Thanks for all of the advice. The big trip is only a week away. Still wondering if anyone has any advice on best locations for wildflowers in lat March in southeastern or central Sicily?
