We have travelled to 76 different countries and this was the best organized, well-planned and captivating trip that we have ever taken. We spent 10 enchanting days in Sicily on an individualized, customized tour and then another 10 days on the dazzling, designed itinerary for small groups of Sardinia Off the Beaten Path. Each day was an enthralling, distinctive experience that we never wanted to end.
The hotels were first-rate. The locations were central to main attractions and activities, except for Hotel Airone in Cannigione which was more like a sheltered resort outside of town. Some of the hotels had rooms or common areas with award-winning photogenic views. Rooms at each of the eight different hotels were very comfortable and remarkably quiet at night. All of them included breakfast with delicious and often an overwhelming number of choices. Service staff at the hotels, including front desk, porters, waiters, concierges, etc., were always very courteous and helpful.
The guides were always prompt, professional, personable and knowledgeable. We appreciated their grasp of history and culture and their eagerness to communicate with us in a very warm and relaxed way. We enjoyed their stories about their own experiences and their anecdotes about the areas we were touring. All the drivers were conscientious and excellent. Like the guides, they were likeable and keen to share their knowledge and local wisdom. In general, they were passionate about taking us off the beaten track to see spectacular viewpoints or special neighborhoods. Travel via the Mercedes vans was an unexpected luxury.
There were so many special and memorable moments it’s impossible to list them all. Everything about Ragusa, Siracusa, Taormina and Alghero. To mention a few specifics throughout the trip: the delectable street food, charming churches, incredible Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and mosaics at Villa Romana Del Casale. In Sardinia, the very unexpected splendor of the industrial sites including the Salt Pans at Conti Vecchi, and the old mines at Porto Flavio and Asproni where the owner gave us a very personal tour. The Barumini Nuraghe and Santa Cristina were both magical and mysterious. We should mention the astonishing Neptune’s Cave in Alghero, the very unique tour of the communal olive oil factory in Gallura, as well as, a drink in the neighborhood men’s social club with our guide in Bosa. There are many moments that we will cherish.
Our guide (Irene) in Orgosolo was particularly interested in sustainability practices and highlighted those during the tour. No particular suggestions about how to further improve commitment to sustainability. Our only complaint (if you could even consider it that) was that the food portion sizes were huge. Particularly at the Su Mustazzeddu Restaurant where the food was unbelievable mouthwatering, but more than enough food for 6 people.
John F Zrebiec – October 2025
