Taormina: Excursion on the Saracen Path

If you’re planning a trip to Sicily and looking for an experience that combines a bit of history, stunning scenery, and a touch of cinema magic, this tour might be just what you need. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on the details and reviews, it looks like a well-rounded outing that offers more than just your average hike.

What really stands out are the insightful guides who bring the area’s stories to life and the spectacular views of Mount Etna and the Bay of Giardini Naxos. Plus, visiting film locations from The Godfather III and The Big Blue adds a unique twist for movie buffs. On the downside, it’s a relatively short experience—at just 3.5 hours—which might feel a bit rushed for those wanting a deeper exploration. Still, it’s ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of moderate activity and cultural highlights without committing an entire day.

This excursion suits those with a curious spirit who appreciate a combination of nature, history, and film lore. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want an engaging walk that’s informative but not overly strenuous, and for anyone keen on snapping some memorable photos along the way.

Key Points

• Short but packed: 3.5 hours of diverse sights and stories
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable and engaging, enhancing the experience
• Iconic locations: Film sets from “The Godfather III” and “The Big Blue”
• Scenic views: Panoramas of Etna and Giardini Naxos
• Cultural stops: Historic churches and Byzantine landmarks
• Fun finish: Toast with almond wine in Castelmola

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Saracen Path Tour

This experience offers a thoughtful blend of history, natural beauty, and cinematic history—a perfect combo for those who want a varied but manageable adventure in Sicily. Starting at the Giardini Naxos-Taormina train station, the tour kicks off in Villagonia, a place layered with stories. The guide will point out the Art Nouveau charm of the station and reveal the secrets beneath its tracks: the remains of the Castle of Villagonia.

From there, the focus shifts to revealing filming locations—the set of “The Godfather III” at the Taormina-Giardini station, the scenes from “The Big Blue” shot nearby, and the movie scenes from Roberto Benigni’s “Johnny Steccchino”. These spots aren’t just photo ops; they’re part of cinema history, and guides tend to share engaging stories about their significance.

Visiting the Churches and the Sentiero dei Saraceni

After the cinematic tour, you’ll step into more spiritual territory with visits to Santa Maria di Portosalvo, which historically protected sailors’ prayers, and two rock-set churches—the Madonna delle Grazie and San Biagio. The latter, a Byzantine relic, boasts a stunning view of Taormina, making it worth the climb.

The Sentiero dei Saraceni, an ancient mule track, is the heart of the walk. It’s a path with roots in trade and escape routes, and walking it offers a chance to appreciate the rugged beauty of Sicily’s landscape. The effort here pays off as you’re rewarded with breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the coast.

The Village of Castelmola and the Final Toast

The tour concludes in Castelmola, one of Italy’s prettiest villages, perched high above the sea. Here, you’ll visit the Church of San Giorgio, and then, the highlight: a toast with almond wine—the local specialty invented by Don Vincenzo. It’s a fun way to end the journey, giving you an authentic taste of Sicilian hospitality.

Details That Matter

The tour is designed for small groups or private bookings, which means fewer crowds and a more personalized experience. The duration of 3.5 hours makes it manageable even for those on a tight schedule, but it also means you should be prepared for some light walking and standing.

Transportation starts at the Giardini Naxos-Taormina station, located conveniently for most travelers in the area. Since the tour includes visits to historical sites and scenic spots, comfortable hiking shoes, a sun hat, biodegradable sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle are recommended. It’s not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those with certain health concerns like altitude sickness.

The guide speaks both Italian and English, allowing for a relaxed and informative narration. Reviewers mention that guides are knowledgeable and friendly, which elevates the experience beyond just a walk.

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Pricing and Value

While the exact price isn’t listed here, the package includes several key highlights—cinema history, stunning views, religious sites, and a local tasting—all in under four hours. This adds up to good value, especially considering the personalized touch with small groups or private options.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Multiple reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides who “brought the area’s stories to life” and made the experience engaging. The views of Mount Etna and the coast are frequently described as breathtaking, perfect for photo lovers.

Some mention the walking pace was just right—moderate enough to enjoy without feeling exhausted—and appreciated the inclusion of historical sites like the Byzantine churches. A few note that the short duration might leave some wanting more, but overall, most travelers feel it’s a well-balanced tour.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re intrigued by the idea of walking through a historic trail with cinematic landmarks, scenic vistas, and religious sites, this tour offers a compact yet memorable experience. It’s great for those with moderate fitness, curious about Sicily’s stories, and fans of film and history alike.

Travelers who prefer longer excursions or more physically demanding hikes might find this a bit on the light side, but for a well-paced, scenic outing, it hits the mark. It’s perfect for visitors who want a taste of local culture, stunning views, and a touch of cinematic history in just a morning or early afternoon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for those who can comfortably walk and stand for a few hours. Keep in mind that it involves some uphill walking and uneven paths, so younger children or those with mobility concerns might need to consider their comfort level.

How long is the walk along the Sentiero dei Saraceni?
The tour includes a walk along this ancient mule track, but the exact length isn’t specified. It’s likely a moderate section suitable for most people with some walking experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable hiking shoes, a sun hat, biodegradable sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle are recommended to stay comfortable and safe during the walk.

Is the tour private or group?
Both options are available—small groups or private tours—allowing for a more personalized experience.

Does the tour include transportation?
The starting point is at Giardini Naxos-Taormina train station, so transportation to the meeting point is your responsibility. The tour itself involves walking between sites.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexibility if your plans shift.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-curated slice of Sicily’s scenic, historic, and cinematic allure—all packed into a manageable 3.5 hours. Whether you’re a film nerd, a history buff, or simply looking for a scenic walk with rewarding views, it’s worth considering. Just be ready for some light terrain and a fair amount of walking, and you’ll likely walk away with memorable stories and great photos.

You can check availability for your dates here: