Left San Fratello about 8:15.

From San Fratello, head to the inside of Sicily via the only paved road (289) up quiet, rolling forests to Passa Femmina Morta at 1,524 metres. It is fascinating to see the rapid change in vegetation, winds, smells and climate as you climb relentlessly up. The inside of Sicily is very different for the coast. With luck, when you get to the top there may be a snack truck that serves cold pop, figs, cheese and salami. On the way up, there are a few sources of water but none that I would recommended drinking from. Then head downhill (with a few modest uphill sections) for Cesani - a  lovely hill town with a great view of the mountains and valley of inland Sicily - and they are fantastic. The roads are dry and dusty.

From Cesaro, head downhill toward T+Randazzo - to the south you will be able to make out Mount Etna - a famous active volcano that goes up to 3,323 metres.

After Randazzo, head around the edge of Mouth Etna and past recent lava flows to Passopisciaro. There will be some hill climbing.

Then head more or less down past a plethora of vineyards and other plants growing in the excellent volcanic soils. The lower you get, the more the climate will become humid. From the coast at Fiumefreddo, there are a few campsites as you head north into Taormina.

There are good hotels of all descriptions in Taormina and you should climb up the hill into the town to see the Greek/roman amphitheatre.

Stayed at Hotel Riviera - good place with reasonable prices, just off beach.

Cycle Tour #3: Day 13                                                                           

September 22, San Fratello - Taormina    103.8 Km

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