Sicily Divide West Loop – Cycling Tour

a Cycling Tour through Western Sicily

The Sicily Divide West Loop is the new Western Sicily tour by Sicily Divide. A total of 410 km with 6,300 meters of elevation gain, offering a bike tour along the coast and through the inland areas of Western Sicily.

Sicily Divide West Loop: What is it all about? We know you’ve already heard about the Sicily Divide Classic—after all, everyone talks about it. But what is this new loop that the Sicily Divide team has come up with? The Sicily Divide West Loop is a circular route that takes you through all the most beautiful places in Western Sicily—a journey you absolutely cannot miss. It’s a 410 km ride with 6,300 meters of elevation gain, combining coastal trails just steps from the sea with inland paths where the green is greener than Ireland and the yellow is brighter than Morocco. Still have doubts? Let’s see if we can clear them up:

What are the roads and terrain like in this part of Sicily?
How do Western Sicilian drivers behave towards cyclists?
Is it really dangerous to cycle in Western Sicily?
Are there partner accommodations along the West Loop route?
Should I bring my own bike to Sicily for this loop?
Will I encounter dogs along the Sicily Divide West Loop?

“I’ve already done the Sicily Divide Classic; there’s no point in returning to Sicily.” You’re wrong! You’d miss out on a totally different route, full of surprises, that will make you feel like you’re in a region you’ve never visited before. The West Loop is something new, something Sicily has never seen before! Still not convinced? Keep reading, and you’ll understand why you should book your ticket today to come and ride through Western Sicily.

Ride with us in Western Sicily and “futtitinni”—just have fun and enjoy yourself!

We are a tour operator officially licensed by the Sicilian Region (Inspiring Tours Tour Operator License No. 1655/S7).

With a fleet of over 100 bikes, we have been organizing bike trips in Sicily, including Western Sicily, for 7 years. We created the Sicily Divide and the Periplo of Sicily by bike. Need to know more? Travel with us and have fun!

Here are three options you can choose from:

Bike Adventure Pack Base

We provide all the necessary information about the Sicily Divide West Loop and essential gadgets, leaving the organization in your hands.
This is the most affordable option, allowing you to embark on the Sicily Divide West Loop with minimal investment.

Bike Adventure Pack Advanced. Everything included in the Bike Adventure Pack Base, plus a rental bike with delivery and pick-up at any point along the Sicily Divide West Loop.
The bikes are top-quality models from Trek, Focus, Lapierre, and Specialized!

Bike Adventure Pack Gold. Everything included in the Advanced Pack, plus all accommodations are pre-paid, luggage transport from stage to stage, and additional services exclusive to the Gold tier.

Bike Adventure Pack Platinum. A guided tour of the Sicily Divide West Loop with one of our expert guides.
An unparalleled adventure with the assurance that someone is always taking care of everything and knows Western Sicily like the back of their hand.

The Sicily Divide West Loop is the new cycling route in Western Sicily, featuring a coastal section just meters from the sea and an inland section that crosses some of the most beautiful nature reserves in the region.

There are two versions of the loop: Relax and Extreme. You can choose to download the route, rent one of our bikes, and embark on your own adventure, or join one of our organized tours available on the official calendar.

If you prefer to travel with your own bike, you can purchase one of our Adventure Packs, starting at just €29, and make an important contribution to supporting our project.

L’itinerario Sicily Divide West Loop percorre i luoghi più importanti della Sicilia Occidentale.

Technical Details:

Total Distance: 410 km
Elevation Gain (D+): 6,300 meters
Cycling Days: 5
Travel Style: Supported/Unsupported

Bike Adventure Pack Platinum

Sicily Divide West Loop

starting from € 1090,00

Do you want to tackle the Sicily Divide West Loop but prefer to eliminate all risk factors?

It’s not about being lazy or timid—you simply know what you’re doing. You don’t like surprises and would rather have a guide handle everything for you. With this guided tour, all you need to do is pedal and enjoy the scenery while your guide shares everything, down to the story of the tiny pebble you just passed.

Nothing is left to chance: official Sicily Divide guides and full support from our tour operator throughout the journey. You’re in the best hands.

Bike Adventure Pack Gold

Sicily Divide West Loop

starting from € 890,00

Got some free time and a bit of money to spend, but don’t feel like spending hours planning your trip?

You want good organization, but you’re not interested in a guide telling you where to go and when to leave. That’s where we come in with our self-guided tour in Sicily. You choose your start date, and we take care of the rest.

Think about it: an unforgettable experience with just a simple click on the “pay” button. A whole world opens up for you! Explore Western Sicily, from the coast to the inland areas, with the best possible route, all accommodations pre-paid, luggage transport from stage to stage, and the assurance of a tour operator run by cyclists who know Sicily better than anyone else.

Bike Adventure Pack Advanced

Sicily Divide West Loop

€ 290,00

Is the Sicily Divide your next cycling adventure, but you want to avoid bringing your precious bike and risking damage during transport?

The Bike Adventure Pack Advanced is perfect for you! You’ll get the best routes, official gadgets, and the rental of a gravel bike, MTB, or e-bike for the duration of your journey, with pick-up and drop-off available at any point in Sicily.

Travel light, travel hassle-free, and become a true Divider!

Bike Adventure Pack Base

Sicily Divide West Loop

€ 59,00

Do you like the idea of the Sicily Divide West Loop but prefer to organize it yourself?

If your wallet is feeling the pinch and you want to save money, the Bike Adventure Pack Base is the best choice for you. It includes the official and updated route, a cap, the official t-shirt, a keychain, a printed guidebook, a neck warmer, a drawstring backpack, and an app for offline navigation to save your phone’s battery.

Everything you need to travel completely independently!

Traccia gratuita

Sicily Divide West Loop

€ 0,00

Non ti va di spendere e non ti piace viaggiare in gruppo o con un’organizzazione. Ti basta la traccia e le informazioni senza dare niente a nessuno? Bene, cliccando il bottone sotto puoi scaricare le tracce del Sicily Divide e partire in totale autonomia senza dovere dare nulla a noi che abbiamo lavorato tanto per costruire questo delirio di sistema. Se, poco prima di scaricare la traccia ti venisse un po’ di rimorso, puoi sempre fare un acquisto nel nostro shop o contribuire al progetto con una donazione.

Why should you choose an organized tour instead of traveling independently on the Sicily Divide West Loop?

Sicily is a harsh land that both slaps and caresses you with its wild landscapes and roads unknown even to local cyclists.

We are the creators of the Sicily Divide, including the West Loop, and no one knows the route better than we do.
We’re by your side every step of your journey, offering the best advice. We handle all the organization, and you just enjoy the ride. Cool, right?

Send An Enquiry

If you need any information or want to know more about it, feel free to send us a message. We’ll reply right away to help you plan your cycling adventure in Sicily. We are a tour operator and handle thousands of cyclists every year. You can trust us.

Palermo

Paliemmu

The Sicily Divide West Loop officially starts in Palermo, a city rich in history, monuments, and culinary traditions. Its historic center is an incredible blend of millennia-old history and modern transformations, making it one of the most beloved and visited cities in the Mediterranean.

You can take advantage of the first day of the journey to visit Mondello, Palermo’s seaside destination with its white sandy beach. The village square is famous for its seafood restaurants and trattorias.

Monreale

Murriali

After leaving behind the bustling chaos of Palermo and passing through the grand and elegant Porta Nuova, we begin the climb to Monreale. This charming town awaits us with its Arab-Norman treasures, protected by UNESCO, and the square in front of the Monreale Cathedral, where we can take a break for a coffee or a granita.

The climb to Monreale is not particularly challenging, with switchbacks that ease the gradient. This marks the first ascent of the West Loop.

San Giuseppe Jato

San Ciuseppi

We leave Monreale and continue the climb to San Giuseppe Jato. This village, adjacent to San Cipirello, was founded in the 18th century under the name San Giuseppe dei Mortilli, on former Jesuit estates. Established by the Marquis of Sambuca, it prospered until a landslide in 1838.

Due to that tragedy, part of the population relocated a few kilometers away, founding San Cipirello. In 1862, the village was renamed in honor of the ancient city of Jato, now an archaeological site. Today, San Giuseppe is a popular destination for mountain bikers.

San CIpirello

San Cipirrieddu

On March 11, 1838, a landslide struck San Giuseppe Jato. The Intendant of Palermo ordered the reconstruction of the village in the San Cipirello area, one kilometer away. Some of the inhabitants of the original settlement decided to move to the new center.

Three years later, the village had a population of 700. In 1864, it became an independent municipality. Today, the two settlements are practically joined, making it impossible to distinguish where one ends and the other begins.

Alcamo

Arcamu

After crossing the summit, you first reach Lake Poma and then Alcamo. Nestled between Mount Bonifato and the sea, this city boasts a beautiful historic center and is famous for its Bianco d’Alcamo wine. It also has a rich historical and cultural heritage, with churches, castles, centuries-old traditions, and close proximity to the sea.

The Alcamo Marina area, in fact, is very popular among Sicilians. From Alcamo, a network of dirt roads and single tracks offers plenty of fun and exciting routes to explore.

Castellammare del GOlfo

Casteddammari

In a hypothetical division of the Sicily Divide West Loop into stages, Castellammare del Golfo could be the ideal spot to conclude the first leg. By this point, you will have covered 65 km with 1,400 meters of elevation gain.

This charming seaside village boasts a well-preserved historic center, a beautiful harbor overlooked by a fortress, and everything you need to enjoy a pleasant evening with local venues and a stroll along the waterfront.

Guidaloca

Vitaloca

Cycling through forests is amazing, but what if you could ride along one of the most beautiful beaches in Sicily? Crystal-clear waters, a tower overlooking the bay, and the romantic sound of waves accompany your stop by the sea, with your bike just a few steps away.

Guidaloca is not just a beach; it’s a dream you’ll never want to wake up from.

Scopello

Scupeddu

Scopello is the perfect blend of a famous seaside destination, where tuna fishing has left extraordinary traces like the tuna fishery perched on the rocks, and an ancient rural village. It’s an ideal spot to rest during your ride and indulge in local delicacies such as the famous Pane Cunzatu and Cassatelle Fritte filled with ricotta.

A place of enchantment all year round.

Visicari

Balata

It’s a tiny village, but since it sits atop one of the toughest and most challenging climbs of the Sicily Divide West Loop, this small cluster of houses has become an iconic point along the route. From here, you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Gulf of Scopello.

There are also accommodations available where you can rest for the night.

Custonaci

Custunaci

The second-largest marble basin in Italy and one of the largest in Europe, Custonaci is also a small village well-known among cycling tourists. Its strategic location between the sea and the mountains makes it a popular spot for many cyclists to stay overnight in one of the many accommodations, both in the historic center and the surrounding area.

Don’t miss the Grotta di Scurati (also known as Grotta Mangiapane) and the viewpoint at Parco Cerriolo.

Cornino

Curninu

The bay is renowned both as a seaside destination and as the gateway to the Monte Cofano Nature Reserve. While it’s impossible to cycle around its slopes, you can explore it on foot and enjoy extraordinary sights, such as red and compact single-track trails, the San Giovanni Tower—part of the remarkable system of Sicilian coastal towers—the Grotta del Crocefisso with its small chapel, and the stunning Tonnara del Cofano with its concave walls.

Bonagia

km 163

Just before reaching Trapani, after the coastal cycling path, you’ll arrive at Bonagia, which is little more than a small square with a marina and a few bars where you can enjoy an aperitif while taking in a stunning sunset.

Here stands the imposing Tonnara Tower, now a hotel and museum. Sicilian towers were built in various eras to protect the island from sea invaders. Today, these towers are cherished monuments among the local communities.

Trapani

Tràpani

Trapani, a Sicilian city renowned for its salt pans, couscous, and the Tramontana promenade, is a beloved destination for its historical and natural heritage. Mount Erice offers routes for cycling tourists and mountain bikers.

With a population of around 67,000, Trapani boasts an important port and landmarks such as the Torre di Ligny and the Cathedral. Since 2020, it has been a starting point for the Sicily Divide Classic, and now it’s also one of the starting and finishing points for the Sicily Divide West Loop.

Marsala

Maissala

Marsala is world-famous for its namesake wine, but it’s much more than that. The salt pans, with their now-unused windmills, the Stagnone Lagoon with its shallow, windy waters—a paradise for kitesurfing—the Cathedral of San Tommaso, and the Baglio Anselmi Museum, home to the Punic Ship, one of the few in existence, all make Marsala a remarkable destination.

From today, it is also a key stop on the Sicily Divide West Loop, further enriching its appeal.

Mazara del Vallo

Mazzara

Mazara del Vallo is a city with a rich multicultural history. The Dancing Satyr, a symbol of the city, is displayed in the Museum of the Satyr. The historic center, known as the Kasbah, showcases clear traces of Arab influence, with its intricate network of narrow streets adorned with ceramics and murals.

With a population of around 50,000, Mazara del Vallo boasts one of the most active fishing ports in the Mediterranean, which has shaped a cuisine deeply connected to the sea, highlighted by the famous red shrimp.

Torretta Granitola

Turritta Granitula

Torretta Granitola has historical origins tied to fishing and maritime traditions. Its most iconic architectural features are the lighthouse and the tuna fishery, which now houses the IAMC (Institute for Coastal Marine Environment), part of the CNR, specializing in marine biodiversity studies and climate change research.

Its coasts are popular for sea urchin harvesting, a delicacy among Sicilians, and for seaweed, which was historically used for medicinal and agricultural purposes. Today, it is a well-known seaside destination visited by thousands of tourists each year.

Tre FOntane

Tri Funtani

Tre Fontane is located on the coast, just a few kilometers from Torretta Granitola. Its name derives from the three freshwater springs that once surfaced near the shore.

Known for its long sandy beaches and natural dunes, it is a popular summer seaside destination. In recent decades, the area has faced challenges with unregulated construction, which has impacted parts of the natural landscape. Despite this, Tre Fontane remains a favored spot for its tranquility and pristine sea.

Triscina

Continuing along the coast, you’ll reach Triscina, a locality without an ancient history but now renowned as a seaside destination and a convenient stopover for those planning to visit the archaeological site of Selinunte.

The Triscina area has also suffered significant landscape damage due to unregulated construction, making it impossible to see the sea in many areas because of the numerous houses along the shoreline. Despite this, the long beaches and dunes, though less visible, still retain their charm.

Selinunte

Selinunti

How can we talk about cycling in Western Sicily without mentioning the Selinunte Archaeological Park? Although entering the archaeological area with a bicycle is prohibited, you can securely lock your bike near the ticket office and continue your visit on foot.

The history of the city of Selinunte is among the most significant in Sicily, and its archaeological park is the largest in Europe. Just a few kilometers from the park, Marinella di Selinunte is easily accessible by bike and offers a charming seaside destination with B&Bs, restaurants, and beach facilities.

Porto Palo

Portu Palu

Porto Palo di Menfi, the ancient port of the city of Selinunte, has roots in fishing and agriculture, serving as a trading hub since Greek times due to its proximity to the powerful Greek city.

The lighthouse, built in the 19th century, is a symbol of the village. Today, Porto Palo is renowned for its beaches, repeatedly awarded the Blue Flag, and for its wine production. In recent years, it has become popular among cycling tourists thanks to the Menfi-Porto Palo cycle path, built on an old railway, and its inclusion in the Periplo of Sicily by bike itinerary.

Menfi

Inykon

Menfi has a history deeply rooted in agriculture, particularly in wine production, with the renowned local wine making it a key destination for cycling tourists interested in wine tourism. Every year, its streets host Inycon, an annual food and wine event.

Founded in the 16th century by the Aragons, Menfi suffered significant damage during the Belice earthquake of 1968. Don’t miss the Civic Museum, which tells the story of the region from its origins to the tragic events of the earthquake, and the Menfi-Porto Palo cycle path.

Sciacca

Xacca

Sciacca is renowned for its salted fish production, ceramics, thermal baths, beaches, and its strategic location on the southern coast of Sicily. But Sciacca is much more than that.

Its historic center, bustling and lively during the day, transforms into a romantic and welcoming spot at night, enhanced by a vibrant nightlife, especially during the summer. Castello Luna, the Chiesa Madre, the Belvedere, and the San Marco beaches round out a city that has become a must-visit stop for cyclists on the Sicily Divide West Loop and the famous Sunset Cycle Route.

Sambuca di Sicilia

Sammuca

We came to appreciate the beauty of Sambuca di Sicilia during the second stage of the Sicily Divide Classic, which ends in this village, crowned the Most Beautiful Village in Italy in 2016. Its history is deeply rooted in ancient Arab culture, as it was known as Zabuth, a stronghold of the Arabs in the 9th century.

Today, Sambuca di Sicilia is a popular tourist destination, thanks to its landmarks like Palazzo Panitteri, the Belvedere Terrace, and the Saracen Quarter. Near a watering trough by the Chiesa Madre, you’ll find the starting point of a long cycle path built on an old railway.

San Carlo

San Carru

The recent history of Sicily is closely tied to that of its railways, which are now in significant decline. Many of the railway lines in Sicily’s interior have been decommissioned as they are no longer needed to transport goods and passengers.

One example is the Castelvetrano – San Carlo – Burgio line, parts of which have now been converted into a cycle path. San Carlo was once an important hub on this railway line, but today, due to the slow demise of Sicily’s railway system, it has become a small village with few inhabitants and just a single grocery store.

For this reason, it retains all its old-world charm.

Chiusa Sclafani

Ciusa

The Sicily Divide West Loop is a mixed itinerary that combines coastal areas with the inland regions of Western Sicily. Along the route, you’ll pass through historically rich locations such as Chiusa Sclafani.

Founded in 1320 by Count Matteo Sclafani, its main attractions include the Chiesa Madre, Palazzo Sclafani, the Capuchin Convent, and the Monte Genuardo Nature Reserve. While not one of Sicily’s most famous destinations, this village holds many surprises and is well worth a visit.

To recharge after your ride, don’t miss the chance to try the famous Guastedda Chiusese, a flatbread filled with fresh ricotta and sausage.

Bisacquino

Busacchinu

Bisacquino is a Sicilian village of Arab origin that developed during the Norman era. Its long agricultural tradition is closely tied to the area’s abundant water resources, which also inspired its name.

Key points of interest include the Chiesa Madre, the Sanctuary of Madonna del Balzo, and the Palazzo del Principe. Bisacquino is an important stop on the Sicily Divide West Loop due to its stunning landscapes, but it is also quite challenging, with numerous climbs to tackle.

Many cyclists will likely choose to take a break in Bisacquino and seek overnight accommodations after a demanding ride.

Campo FIorito

Campu Fiuritu

Campofiorito, founded in 1838, developed as a rural settlement during the Bourbon period. Known for its agriculture, including the cultivation of cereals, olives, and vines, it is a peaceful village surrounded by nature.

Points of interest include the Church of San Giuseppe and Piazza del Popolo. Though almost unknown even to Sicilians, it holds a strategic position along various hiking and cycling routes.

However, the limited availability of accommodations makes it challenging to plan an overnight stay in this small village. The hope is that the Sicily Divide West Loop will help promote its tourism development.

Corleone

Curliuni

This ancient town, nestled among rocks, waterfalls, forests, and a vast plain covered with wheat fields, is sadly infamous as the birthplace of some well-known figures in the Sicilian Mafia. However, despite its tarnished recent past, Corleone has a long and glorious history, boasting a beautiful historic center and numerous attractions that make it one of the most famous destinations in the Palermo area.

Not to be missed: the Chiesa Madre, the Anti-Mafia Museum, the Monastery of Santissimo Salvatore, the Church of Sant’Agostino, the Capuchin Convent, the Cascata delle Due Rocche, and Rocca Busambra, the highest peak in Western Sicily.

Ficuzza

Ficuzza is a tiny hamlet of Corleone, known for its history tied to the Real Casina di Caccia, a residence built for King Ferdinand I of Bourbon between 1799 and 1807 as a hunting retreat. The neoclassical-style lodge is now open to visitors and hosts cultural events.

The Bosco della Ficuzza Nature Reserve, one of Sicily’s largest green lungs, is traversed by a cycling path built on an old railway line. Within the reserve, you can find Rocca Busambra, the Fontana del Re, the Ponte di Ficuzza, and the Santuario della Madonna delle Grazie.

With several B&Bs, bars, and restaurants, this enchanting location is perfect for an overnight stay and a serene awakening surrounded by nature.

Godrano

Gutranu

The cycling path that crosses the Bosco della Ficuzza Nature Reserve ends in Godrano, a small village located at the foot of Rocca Busambra. Founded in the 16th century, the village has a history tied to agriculture, livestock farming, and the processing of gypsum, which is abundant in the surrounding area.

Key attractions include the Church of Sant’Antonino Martire, the Bosco della Ficuzza, Rocca Busambra, the Grotta del Romito, and the ancient gypsum quarries.

Despite its strategic location in one of Western Sicily’s most popular areas for trekking and cycling tourism, Godrano has limited accommodations, which might make it challenging to find a place to stay overnight.

Marineo

Marineu

Officially founded in the 16th century by the Beccadelli family, this town is dominated by the Rocca di Marineo, a monolithic, pyramid-shaped rock that has been of military interest since ancient times.

Nestled in the shadow of this Dolomitic massif, Marineo boasts notable attractions such as the Beccadelli Castle, the Chiesa Madre di San Ciro, the Museum of the Eleuterio River Valley, and the Serre della Pizzuta Nature Reserve.

Famous among Palermo’s cyclists for its challenging climbs and delicious ricotta cassatelle, Marineo is traversed by the Sicily Divide West Loop as well as other smaller cycling and walking routes.

Santa Cristina Gela

Sëndahstina

Cycling near Santa Cristina Gela, you might hear a strange language that has nothing to do with Italian or Sicilian. It’s not a dialect or a joke—you’re listening to Arbëresh, an ancient Albanian language preserved in a few villages in Sicily’s interior due to a very old story.

Santa Cristina Gela was founded in the 15th century by Albanian refugees fleeing the Ottoman invasion. Over time, the village has preserved Albanian traditions, language, and culture—even its religious practices follow the Orthodox rite.

It competes with Piana degli Albanesi for the title of having the best cannoli in Sicily.

Altofonte

Autufunti

Its Norman origins are evident even in its ancient name, “Altus Fons” (high spring), referring to the numerous water sources in the area. Founded in the 12th century by Roger II, who built the Abbey of Santa Maria di Altofonte, it served as an important royal and religious residence.

Key attractions include the abbey, the Chiesa Madre, the Fontana Grande, and the Palazzo del Parco, an old hunting lodge for Norman kings.

The distance to Palermo is now short, and after a few twists and turns, we are thrust into the chaos of the big city, still holding the beauty of all the kilometers traveled along the Sicily Divide West Loop, the tour of Western Sicily, in our hearts.