Designed by renowned Sardinian-born landscape designer Carlo Gabriele, this tour includes access to private estates, engagement with local designers and residents, sumptuous Italian fare, and shopping hotspots. We’ll be immersed in the history and culture of Sicily and Sardinia through their most beautiful gardens, parks and historical sites.

• Discover the hidden gardens of Sardinia and Sicily, from the enchanting private garden of Maurizio Usai in the Gallura countryside to the historic gardens of Villa Tasca and Kolymbethra Garden, where Mediterranean landscapes, heritage and horticulture intertwine.
• Experience authentic island life through visits to traditional villages, artisan studios and local communities, gaining insight into the unique cultural identity of Sardinia and Sicily.
• Wander through the charming historic towns of Olbia, Alghero, Bosa, Erice, Palermo and Siracusa, uncovering centuries of history, architecture and local traditions.
• Enjoy a hands-on Sardinian cooking experience, learning traditional recipes and sharing a meal prepared with local ingredients.
• Explore Sicily’s magnificent cultural treasures, including the Valley of the Temples, Neapolis Archaeological Park and the ancient Greek Theatre of Taormina.
• Visit elegant historic residences including Palazzo Butera and Villa Tasca, discovering the stories, gardens and artistic heritage of Sicily’s noble families.
• Experience the vibrant flavours and traditions of island life at San Benedetto Market in Cagliari and Ballarò Market in Palermo.
• Cruise along Sardinia’s dramatic coastline to explore the spectacular Grotte di Nettuno (Neptune’s Grotto), one of the island’s most remarkable natural wonders.
• Witness the timeless landscapes of western Sicily at Saline dello Stagnone, walking among ancient windmills and shimmering salt flats at sunset.
• Savour regional cuisine throughout the journey, from agriturismo dining to memorable group dinners featuring Sardinia and Sicily’s distinctive flavours.

Kim Woods Rabbidge, curator of the popular ‘Our Australian Gardens’ Instagram, is an award-winning garden writer, photographer, and design consultant. Her articles and photographs have appeared in both Australian and international books and magazines. She was Queensland Coordinator for Open Gardens Australia, is a member and past executive member of the Horticultural Media Association Australia and Australian Garden History Association. Kim leads bespoke garden tours in Australia and overseas, and presents on various design-related subjects. Kim and her husband are currently developing a large garden on an old dairy farm at Eltham, in the Northern Rivers of New South Wales.

Carlo Gabriele’s passion for the beauty of nature was kindled in his native Sardinia, famous for its scenic landscapes and the ‘Emerald Coast’ – La Costa Smeralda. In 2014 Carlo moved his business to Melbourne where he continues to design gardens, interiors, and bespoke terrace furniture.

Tour Inclusions: 

• 11 nights’ accommodation in carefully selected hotels, including daily breakfast
• Private transportation throughout the tour
• Domestic flight from Cagliari to Palermo
• Meals as specified in the itinerary
• Services of an experienced English-speaking tour escort/guide
• Entrance fees to all included sightseeing site

Not Included: 

• International airfares
• Individual airport transfers on arrival and departure
• Items of a personal nature (e.g. telephone, laundry, room service, mini-bar, taxis etc.)
• Any visa fees or other travel documents required for entry into the destination country
• Travel insurance
• Portage at hotel, tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, hotel staff and restaurants

FITNESS REQUIREMENTS – Active

In order to get the most from your travels and keep up with the group, a reasonable level of fitness is required.

• You will need to be able to walk for a few hours at a gentle pace
• Use combined shower/bath facilities (it is impossible to guarantee walk-in shower facilities)
• Undertake walking tours of 1-2 hours duration, including using stairs, walking over cobblestones and other uneven surfaces
• Stand for long periods in museums and other sites
• Embark / disembark coaches, trains and other methods of transportation without assistance
• Handle your own luggage