Anton & Giovanni’s Adventures in Sicily

Anton and Giovanni's Sicilian road trip begins in the port town of Sciacca, as they explore the southern coast of this sun-kissed island, from its long-lost ancient cities to its breathtaking coastlines. Their first stop is the Valley of the Temples, the remains of a huge Greek city, featuring some of the best examples of classical Greek architecture anywhere in the world. From there, they hit the beautiful white beaches of Porta Bianca before taking in some more history in Syracuse. Next it's off to Marzamemi, a gorgeous seaside village that has been a fishing hub since the tenth century. Giovanni has arranged a day’s fishing, but with a twist. After a stop in Ortygia to participate in the Feast of the Assumption, the final stop on the first leg the tour of Sicily is the island's second city, Catania. The evening is taken up with a visit to Catania’s annual tango festival, where the boys put on a showstopping performance to remember.

The second leg of Anton and Giovanni's trip around Sicily takes them to Mount Etna, Europe’s highest and most active volcano. Along the way, Giovanni takes Anton to a traditional Sicilian barber shop to get him groomed and beach ready before they both try their hand at paddleboarding in the Ionian Sea. Mount Etna stands over 10,000 feet high and is the must-see on any tour of Sicily. Anton and Giovanni hike halfway towards the summit with a little help from some unexpected furry friends before opting to camp out overnight. Two then become three as 2021 Strictly champion Rose Ayling-Ellis joins them to complete their trek in style by taking to the skies and flying over the crater of Etna in a helicopter. Keeping the adrenalin flowing, and taking sightseeing to extreme lengths, they next embark on a daring zip wire ride before checking in at a fabulously opulent country villa for a well-earned rest.

For the third and final part of their trip around Sicily, the boys are again joined by Giovanni’s former dance partner Rose Ayling-Ellis as they make their way through the centre of the island. Giovanni has arranged a lesson in pasta-making, where Rose and Anton uncover the secrets of one of Italy’s famous exports. Then, before the boys head for a morning of golf, Rose is treated to a spectacular synchronized swimming show with Anton and Giovanni performing. The boys then travel together to the outskirts of Palermo, where Giovanni has lined up an overnight stay with a group of beer-brewing monks, so that they can experience a simpler way of life, with work and prayers at its heart. Finally, they head into Palermo, Gio’s hometown, where Anton meets Giovanni’s parents and unveils a surprise birthday present.