Planned Route Notes
This stage begins with the ferry crossing from mainland Italy to Messina, marking the definitive transition onto the island. From there, the route follows Sicily’s eastern coastline southbound, keeping the Ionian Sea constantly in view. The road runs beneath the presence of Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, whose mass dominates the inland horizon. The terrain alternates between coastal exposure and volcanic foothills, passing historic coastal cities including Catania and continuing toward the quieter southeastern edge of the island. The stage concludes near Syracuse, where the density drops and the landscape opens. This marks the final continental displacement. Beyond this point, there is no further south to ride.