A VOLCANIC MTB JOURNEY BETWEEN FIRE AND SEA
If you are looking for a unique volcano MTB experience that combines the thrill of ancient magma with the freedom of the Mediterranean, our SAILING INTO THE LAVA TOUR is exactly what you need. This journey blends the adrenaline of technical descents on dark volcanic sand with the luxury of having a sailing boat as your private floating base.
Moreover, this route offers a rare blend of extreme riding and total sea immersion across Sicily and its islands. Every day, you’ll conquer a new peak and every evening, you’ll dive into crystalline waters, letting the waves wash away the dust of the craters. If you want a journey that challenges your skills and regenerates your spirit under the stars, this is the volcanic adventure you’ve been waiting for!
TRIP SUMMARY
Logistics
starting in
ending in
catania
naples
duration
13 days // 12 nights
ride specs
skill level
intermediate
trail level
s2
total specs
260 KM / +7.200 M / -7850 M
DETAILS
TOUR INFO
4 // 6 riders
bike
MTB // EMTB
AIRPORT
CATANIA // NAPLES
RIDE INFO // EXPLORE RIDE THE FIRE
FEEL THE VOLCANIC HEART OF THE MEDITERRANEAN
The Sailing into the Lava expedition is a world-class MTB journey that brings together the raw power of active volcanoes and the crystal-clear beauty of the Mediterranean sea. We will lead you through a land of vivid contrasts on an epic journey. For instance, we will ride from the lunar, black sandy slopes of Mount Etna to the steaming fumaroles of Vulcano island, using our private sailing boat as a floating base.
This multi-day adventure connects some of the most iconic geological sites in the world. Moreover, you will pedal from the ancient history of Vesuvius to the wild, primordial soul of the Aeolian Archipelago. You can enjoy breathtaking descents plunging through solidified lava flows and lush pine forests directly back towards the turquoise water for a sunset swim.
Why not enjoy the same epic riding while staying in traditional mountain refuges and local hotels?
BIKE & BOAT EXPEDITION: Wake up in a new island every day
SEA TO SUMMIT: From the boat deck to the active craters
WATCHING LAVA FLOW INTO THE SEA UNDER THE STARLIT SKY
VOLCANIC CONTRAST: Ride the black lava, dive into the deep blue
SUNSET ON BOARD: Post-ride drinks while sailing between islands
A final dive into the colorful heart of historic Naples
“Our goal is to add true value to your cycling holiday, offering a service tailored to every detail within a relaxed and safe environment.”
You’ll be riding with a team of Certified Liguria Region Guides and qualified instructors from the Federazione Ciclistica Italiana. We are more than just guides; we are explorers with a deep-rooted passion for our land, ensuring that every tour meets the highest standards of technical skill and professional safety.
We don’t just lead the way; we share the secrets and the “soul” of the territory, building a bridge between you and our local heritage. Regardless of your skill level, we will lead you on an adventure through the most remote borders of the Riviera, always focusing on quality, respect for nature, and creating meaningful memories that go far beyond the ride.
GEAR & OUTFIT REQUIREMENT
Having the right equipment is key to enjoying our wild trails. From mandatory safety gear to specific bike setups, we’ve prepared a comprehensive guide to help you pack like a pro.
TOUR DETAILS // SKILL LEVEL
Skill Level: Intermediate
Is this tour for you? If you want to experience the raw power of the Mediterranean’s most iconic volcanoes—from the craters of Etna and the Aeolian Islands to the slopes of Vesuvius—this sea-to-summit journey is for you. Be ready to connect islands and mainland by ship for the ultimate adventure.
Bike Type: Enduro bike (150mm+) or E-MTB.
Vibe: An epic Enduro odyssey through smoke and fire. You will ride ancient lava flows and watch volcanoes disappear on the horizon from the deck of a ship.
The Riding: A diverse mix of terrain: the dark, loose volcanic sand of the islands, the technical basalt rock of Etna, and the historic forest trails overlooking the Bay of Naples.
The Support: Our shuttle handles the mountain climbs, while we manage all sea logistics. This includes local ferry connections between the islands.
TRAVEL & LOGISTICS
➜ We’ve got the logistics covered so you can focus on the ride.
Meeting Point: We meet at Catania.The perfect gateway to start our volcanic expedition.
Getting Here: For your travel planning, the primary airport for arrival is Catania (CTA). For your return, the most convenient departure hub after the ferry crossing is Naples (NAP).
Daily Schedule: Expect 5 -6 hours out on the trails, including a relaxed lunch break in a local trattoria.
Guided Tours: All our tours are fully guided experiences.
Technical Shuttle Support: Transportation is provided exclusively for the logistics of the bike tour.
Service Scope: Shuttle transfers are functional and strictly limited to the execution of the tour itinerary.
PRICES & BOOKING
Tour Price: COMING SOON
Accommodation: Price includes stay in a double/twin room.
Single Room Supplement: Available upon request for an additional fee.
Please note: This is a sailing adventure, sleeping arrangements are in double shared cabins.
Cancellation Policy: Terms and conditions are based on our tour operator 4Guimp Travel. Please contact us for the full policy details.
What’s Included: Professional MTB Guide, full-day private shuttle support, and mechanical assistance for minor trail repairs.
What’s Excluded: Travel insurance (mandatory), bike & gear rental, lunch, and after-ride drinks.
Ferry Crossing: The Palermo-Naples ferry is not included. Participants must book their own tickets as prices vary depending on the booking date and your choice of accommodation (e.g., shared or private cabins).
Booking: A 30% deposit is required to secure your spot.
TRAVEL TIPS
LOGISTICS
GETTING HERE: The primary arrival hub is Catania (CTA), while the most convenient departure hub for your return is Naples (NAP).The tour starts directly in Catania and concludes in Naples after our final ferry crossing from Palermo.
ACCOMMODATION: We hand-pick charming, local accommodations (like our favorites in Dolceacqua and Saorge). Prices are based on twin-share rooms. If you prefer a single room, please request it in advance (a supplement fee applies).
FOOD & DIETARY: We love local flavors! If you have allergies or intolerances, please let us know at the time of booking so we can coordinate with the trattorias.
ON-TOUR CARE
HEALTH PRIORITIES: Your health and safety on tour is our top priority.
LOCAL ADVICE: You should always consult your own doctor or physician before travelling to new countries to seek their advice on health matters abroad.
VACCINATIONS & WATER: No vaccinations are required for visiting our tour areas. While tap water is generally safe, we recommend bottled or filtered water, which will be readily available throughout the trip.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS: Please let us know if you have any special food requirements, allergies, or pre-existing conditions your guides should know about.
TRAVEL INSURANCE (Mandatory): As a condition of booking, you must be insured against medical and personal accident risks. Your policy must explicitly cover mountain biking. We also strongly recommend coverage for trip cancellation and baggage (including your bike).
FINANCIAL TIPS
CURRENCY & CASH: The local currency is Euro (€). While cards are accepted in cities, cash is essential for remote mountain huts and small bars.
ATM MACHINES: You can find ATMs in Finale Ligure, Dolceacqua, and Nice. We suggest withdrawing cash before heading into the smaller villages.
TIPPING: In Italy, tipping is a sign of appreciation for great service. If you’ve had an epic time, a tip for your guides and local staff is always a nice gesture!
STILL HAVE A QUESTION?
Want to know if your bike is right or have questions about the logistics? Chat with us.
phone.
+ 39 392 909 75 60
email.
WEARETRAILSUNLIMITED@GMAIL.COM
INFO@TRAILSUNLIMITED.IT
