A Perfect Ride
Italy (Sicily) Stage 03 – Trapani to Mazara Del Vallo 60 Km (Thu 24 May 2018)
Weather: 14⁰C min – 26⁰C max, clear and sunny
“Melancholy is incompatible with bicycling.” ~ James E. Starrs, US book editor
Some days you never want to end. Glorious sunshine greeted me when I emerged from my B&B at 7:30 am for breakfast in the Corso, setting my mood for the day.
Feeling better after a good night sleep, and having sweated off yesterday’s fever during the night, I was on the road by 8 am heading for Mazara Del Vallo, 60 Km south of Trapani. At the 6 Km point I was faced with a decision, whether to continue on the main road or to follow my original safe and scenic, but longer, route along the coast.
Good decision! It was so peaceful to be away from the relentless roar of traffic on the busy highway. The scenery was unbelievable and riding was effortless, just rolling along on flat, smooth, quiet roads.
What I enjoyed most was the end-to-end, typically Sicilian, villages with modest, but well looked after, houses; some with quaint courtyards and outdoor eating areas, indicating a simple lifestyle centering around the extended family.
Stopping for a coffee and panini at the impressive town of Marsala was a highlight. So much history here, this being where on 11th May 1860 Garibaldi started his match towards the unification of Italy. But perhaps Marsala is better known for the wine that is named after it.
Vineyards prevailed for most of the way, but Bougainvilleas and Oleanders provided a splash of brilliant colour to some of the photos.
Before I knew it I had arrived at the historic fishing port of Mazara Del Vallo, which has retained much if its Arab culture and architecture. Wow, what a town. I think I have fallen in love with Sicily!
Beautiful rides like today are the reason I am so addicted to bicycle touring!
I hope you’re feeling better – don’t push yourself too hard! Did you enjoy some of those veggie and fish fritters? Beautiful mosaics and miniatures – they’re a crafty bunch 🙂
The ceramics are fabulous. They are clever crafts persons alright.