- Ride through six Unesco baroque towns in the Val di Noto, Marzamemi and Syracuse
- Take rewarding scenic climbs and coastal rides alongside crystal-clear seas
- Ride through picturesque countryside and quaint villages
- Sample superb regional cuisine and wine
- Cool off with swimming pool dips on five days and sea swims on four days
Cycling in Sicily
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8 Days
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8 Days
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Cycling
Itinerary
Palazzolo Acreide Syracuse
Fly to Catania, transfer to Palazzolo Acreide, welcome briefing and bike fitting
Fly to Fontanarossa Airport in Catania, where we will be met for the transfer to Palazzolo Acreide (approximately 1 hour 15 minutes). Palazzolo Acreide is a charming maze of narrow streets and Baroque churches, built following an earthquake in 1693 on the site of an ancient Greek colony.
On arrival at the start hotel, the tour leader will give a welcome briefing and if time, we will do the bike fitting today. Depending on the flight arrival time, there may be a chance to explore Palazzolo Acreide today. If the group flight arrives late in the evening, we will visit the town the following morning.
Accommodation: Feudo Bauly
Start in Palazzolo Acreide, welcome briefing and bike fitting
We start in Palazzolo Acreide, a maze of narrow streets and baroque churches that was built following an earthquake in 1693 on the site of an ancient Greek colony.
The tour leader will give a welcome briefing and, if there’s time, we will do the bike fitting. Depending on the arrival time of the group, we may have the chance to explore Palazzolo Acreide. If not, we look around the town tomorrow morning.
Accommodation: Feudo Bauly
Ride south to the hilltop baroque town of Ragusa Ibla; cycle scenic roads to Modica
We start our adventure with a ride through the beautiful lower valleys of the Hyblaean Mountains, passing olive plantations and dry-stone walls that characterise this area. We then climb into the highlands to Ragusa Ibla, a town built over three hills separated by a deep valley, and home to beautiful baroque churches and buildings.
We then cycle to Modica, a Sicilian baroque town at the bottom of a gorge. After the ride, we recommend trying Modica chocolate, still prepared using the Aztec recipe brought over by Spaniards in the 1500s. We stay overnight in Modica.
Accommodation: Ferro Hotel
Cycle to the architectural delight of Scicli, the filming location of ‘Inspector Montalbano’, then on to our ‘agriturismo’
We leave Modica and ride along a ravine that slopes downhill until we reach another outstanding example of Sicilian baroque architecture, Scicli, where the popular Inspector Montalbano TV series was filmed. We continue further south until we meet the Mediterranean coast, where we stop for lunch and a swim. Getting back on the bikes, we cycle along the shore to the area of San Lorenzo, where our agriturismo (converted farmhouse) is located.
Accommodation: Agriturismo Tenuta Arangio
Gentle circular route through vineyards, along the coast and back to Marzamemi
A loop ride takes us through vineyards and past cherry tomato greenhouses (where the renowned Pomodoro di Pachino tomatoes are cultivated). If we are lucky, we may spot flamingos, herons and other migratory birds in marshes along the way. We then follow the coastline to Portopalo di Capo Passero, the southernmost village in Sicily (further south than Tunis). Here, we stop for coffee and a chance to swim where the Mediterranean and Ionian seas meet. We reach our lunch stop in Marzamemi, a picturesque fishing village of Arab origins, before returning to the agriturismo for a second night.
Accommodation: Agriturismo Tenuta Arangio
Coastal ride to Vendicari Nature Reserve, continue to Noto, the capital of Sicilian baroque architecture
A short ride brings us to the beautiful Vendicari Nature Reserve. This narrow stretch of marshy coastline provides a rare and now completely protected habitat for migratory bird species and the local flora and fauna. A short walk will take us to beautiful sandy beaches, perfect for a swim in the Mediterranean Sea. As we leave the reserve behind, we head north to Noto, another Unesco World Heritage site. It’s a planned town in the Late Sicilian baroque style, all built in a beautiful honey-coloured stone. A must-try in Noto is the delicious cannoli alla ricotta and almond pastries. We stay overnight in Noto.
Accommodation: Grand Hotel Sofia
Circular ride to Cavagrande National Reserve and the deep Cassibile Canyon
We start our day with a challenging but rewarding 4mi (6km) climb to San Corrado di Fuori, where we stop for a well-deserved coffee. Continuing the cycle, we reach the archaeological site of Noto Antica, the original settlement of Noto, which was destroyed by the 1693 earthquake. Another ascent takes us to the viewpoint of Cavagrande del Cassibile (1,657ft/505m), one of the deepest canyons in Europe, where we enjoy a lunch stop with sweeping views of the gorge and the Cassibile river far below.
In the afternoon, we enjoy a magnificent descent with hairpin bends towards the coast, before returning to Noto for a second night in this wonderful city.
Accommodation: Grand Hotel Sofia
Final coastal ride to Syracuse; free time to discover the historic town
Today’s gentle ride will lead us first to Avola for an espresso or cappuccino, then along the coast to Syracuse, passing beautiful beaches where we will stop for a refreshing sea dip. Once we arrive in Syracuse, described by Cicero as “the greatest Greek city and the most beautiful of them all”, our tour leader will provide a short orientation tour of Ortigia, the island where the city was founded. In the afternoon, there is free time to explore at your own pace, do some shopping or visit the archaeological park with its spectacular hillside Greek theatre. We stay overnight in Syracuse.
Accommodation: Gran Bretagna Boutique Hotel Ortigia (or similar)
Transfer to Catania; fly to London
Transfer to Catania; fly to London.
End in Syracuse
The trip ends in Syracuse after breakfast. If you’d like a bit more time to explore, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
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Essential Info
Is this trip for you?
This trip is rated Activity Level 3 (Moderate) and classified as Road.
- Six days of cycling
- Partial vehicle support (due to limited seats) and a cycling guide.
- The route is 95 percent paved
There are no transfers to or from hotels: all the rides are door-to-door. Most of the cycling is along flat to hilly paved roads (mainly traffic-free); days 2 and 6 include more demanding ascents and rolling routes, so a reasonable level of fitness is required. As we approach the main towns and cities, such as Syracuse, there are busier sections with traffic at peak hours.
A support vehicle, with limited spare seats and driven by a bicycle mechanic, is available throughout the trip, following at all times (pedestrian areas excluded). The driver will help you at junctions by giving route directions and allowing you to access any items you don’t wish to carry on the bike.
E-bikes are available on request for a fee payable prior departure.
If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip, please do not hesitate to contact your sales representative.
Comfortable hotels and agriturismo
We use comfortable hotels and an agriturismo, which have been carefully selected for their friendly atmosphere and character. All rooms have en suite facilities and most are conveniently located in proximity of the charming Unesco-listed historic centres we visit.
List of properties normally used:
- Palazzolo Acreide: Feudo Bauly
- Modica: Ferro Hotel
- Marzamemi: Agriturismo Tenuta Arangio
- Noto: Grand Hotel Sofia
- Syracuse: Hotel Gran Bretagna Boutique Ortigia Or Hotel Posta
Trip Experts
Reviews
Add your own reviewSpot on again from Exodus
Perfect combination of cycling, sightseeing and fun!
Most Inspirational Moment
Reaching the top of Cavagrande del Cassibile, one of the deepest canyons in Europe in blistering heat - using only pedal power, to be rewarded by a wonderful picnic lunch prepared by Davide and the minibus driver, Giuseppe.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Davide was spot on for this trip. He gave us all confidence in our abilities to enable us to get the most out of the trip. His passion and love for Sicily was evident throughout, an amazing ambassador for his island. There can't be enough hours in the day for all the things Davide sorted out - restaurants, transfers, bike changes - nothing was too much trouble. And what a great sense of humour - he loved learning new English idioms and trying to use them on a daily basis.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be prepared for heat and hills - the rewards will far outweigh the effort! Be prepared to try new foods - the flavours are vibrant and bold. Be prepared to cycle in traffic - the group leader will ensure you are safe. Go for an e-bike if you are not confident - it would be a shame to miss out on this awesome trip.
Another great Italian Exodus trip!
Beautiful Baroque towns, great coastal views, delicious food and a brilliant guide
Most Inspirational Moment
Cycling into Syracuse - such impressive architecture! A super way to finish.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Davide was a brilliant guide. He was a fantastic Ambasador for Sicily, sharing his knowledge about the places we went to in an interesting way. His restaurant recommendations provided us with some delicious food. He bonded well with the group and had a great sense of humour. Thank you Davide!
Cycling in Sicily - October 2022
10 out of 10. Davide Di Mauro leads the cycling (from local tour guide company CicloFree) and works really hard to ensure the cycle tour is well organised and great fun. Giuseppe (van back up driver) provided solid back up support all day long with water and any other assistance always available if required. Accommodation all of a good standard. Cycling pitched at the right level without being overly strenuous. Davide ensures that all routes are safe and relatively low traffic routes. Davide puts lots of effort into selecting / suggesting places to eat. All of which were of outstanding quality but not necessarily expensive. I will remember the tour almost as much for culinary highlights as well as for cycling highlights. The cycling was excellent with the bikes being of high quality and very well maintained. Most of all however is the knowledge and enthusiasm that Davide has for Sicilian culture and nature. It was a huge pleasure to be part of a cycle tour led by Davide. Davide made sure the tour was fun from start to finish with his great sense of humour.
Most Inspirational Moment
Visiting the various old towns such as Palazzolo Acreide, Ragusa, Monica, Noto and Syracuse. Cycling back down the road of hairpin bends to Noto from the Cavagrande National Reserve.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our tour Davide Di Mauro was excellent and made the whole trip enjoyable for all. Davide works really hard to ensure everything goes to plan but also is flexible when required to ensure everyone on the tour gets as much as possible from each days cycling. Davide has a fantastic knowledge of Sicilian culture and history which adds a great deal to the enjoyment of the tour. Davide also has an excellent relationship with all the accommodation providers and restaurants which ensures everything goes smoothly and the group get a warm welcome at all stops. On top of all, Davide has a great sense of humour and prides himself on collecting many everyday English language commonly used sayings - which he uses at different moments which is very funny.
Advice for Potential Travellers
No. All went as expected.
Suggestions
The communication from Exodus with instructions / requirements before the holiday were very clear. I opted to arrange my own flights from Edinburgh, flying into and out of Palermo rather than Catania. Exodus were extremely helpful in providing travel options to and from Palermo to the cycle tour start and end locations. Exodus also booked the additional accommodation I required before and after the formal tour start and end and a further nights accommodation in Palermo. This was all achieved without any hitches.
How much fun can you have!
Post covid the first trip with Exodus, a little bit of anxiety, a long time since a cycling holiday, however, already decided that based on past experience, I would not be disappointed. Aboslutely right, having spent endless hours worrying about getting fit again, Covid had not been kind to me, I realised that I was not unfit. So enjoyment was the usual making new friends, seeing a country that I had not visited before, tasting and enjoying the culinary delights, understanding the culture, seeing wonderful sights and all on two wheels. But most of all thanks to our guide and everyone else on the trip having a very good time, the latter being an understatement. Even a bit of rain could not put a dampner on the holiday.
Most Inspirational Moment
So many
Thoughts on Group Leader
Excellent, command of English good and his care and concern over safety and welfare, his understaning of idioms a delight.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Don't hesitate book.
Great leader and super enjoyable cycling
Davide was a first class leader – fun, adaptable, friendly, considerate, and managed the group really well; he deserves 5 stars personally. E-bikes were the best ever. Excellent hotels except the one in Syracusa which is not an acceptable standard (room and breakfast). Fascinating insight into Sicilian history, culture and ecology – Davide knew so much and made every trip interesting. Cycling was very good overall – a couple of really good and challenging rides including stunning scenery though cycling days 3 and 4 could have been longer and more interesting ideally. A very nice group which gelled well.
Most Inspirational Moment
Davide as group leader and the cycling day 5 ride which was challenging (hills and rain) but immensely rewarding with some great scenery and a fabulous downhill S-bend section towards the end with stunning views towards the coast
Thoughts on Group Leader
As above - faultless
Advice for Potential Travellers
If you are thinking about an e-bike but not sure then do it - some hills are challenging and the bikes are top class. Snacks not provided and have to be bought so you might want to take some as a contingency
Suggestions
The Syracusa hotel needs to be changed - it is below an acceptable standard and not a good way to finish the trip
Popping my Cycling Holiday Cherry
Well, with such glowing reviews underneath I almost feel a bit miffed that Davide treats everybody with such genuine accord – I thought we were special 😉
Joking aside, Davide and Guiseppe are genuinely brilliant at their jobs. They made our trip such a special experience, well managed, super organised, tough on the uphill but what a joy on the down, stupendous vistas, fun and safe. They made us all feel cared for and no request was too big or small. I enjoyed the encouragement of “Brava Clara” when I got to the top of a particularly tough hill. My favourite day was the toughest hill-wise but the break for lunch a picnic Davide and Guiseppe had prepared, full of local ingredients, made with Sicilian panache was worth the aching muscles (bum). Syracuse for me was the icing on the cake. A seaside town full of the most beautiful architecture making it very hard not to slide into its romantic vibe. I’ve just got back and am feeling a bit blue I don’t have to be up with the group for 8.45am to cycle off to some fabulous Sicilian town. Enjoy it people. You will love it.
Fabulous Sicily
This is our 6th Cycling holiday and one of the best so far. We were lucky to be part of a wonderful group made up of folks from the UK, Australia, NZ and Canada. We all had lots of laughs and good times.
Some of the hills were challenging but all the better for 6/15 being e-bikes, so don’t be afraid to book an e-bike.
Some beautiful towns and scenery as well as good hotels, delicious food and restaurants selected by our group leader Davide.
Most Inspirational Moment
Too many to mention but arriving in Noto was spectacular where we had a fabulous pizza.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Davide was an amazing young man who had a lot of passion for his country and wanted you to share it at every level. A really good group leader and well briefed on local history and culture. Must also mention Giuseppe the mechanic, driver and picnic man, whilst he couldn't speak English, he observed the group and made sure we were all looked after.
Advice for Potential Travellers
If in any doubt of your cycling abilities just book an e-bike. We loved them and they worked well with the group. The hotels were all good but remember to bring your swim shoes. Also if you like an early morning coffee, bring a travel kettle. Tea & coffee facilities are not provided in your room. Some roads coming into the towns can be quite busy, so make sure you are confident with riding in traffic.
Suggestions
This was the first trip we have been on where we were able to take part in a cokery lesson at the Agro-Tourism hotel, great fun including a glass of wine.
What a ride
This was a fantastic introduction to Sicily and to planned cycling tours. We had a fantastic group of 15 riders from the UK, NZ, Canada and Ireland. We ate and rode together every day. The weather at this time of year is great for cycling.
Most Inspirational Moment
Reaching the top of each and every long climb.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Davide is conscientious, witty and engaging. We enjoyed sharing novel examples of English sayings and learning more about Sicily from him.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Train for the uphills Cleat pedals are a big advantage Enjoy the moments
Suggestions
Some road crossings need you to be very cautious. Best to take time and care to cross safely
Great trip
A delightful trip from many perspectives.
Lovely scenery and interesting places to visit in the south of island.
Very good company of lovely people.
Amazing food.
Hot weather
What’s not to like??
Most Inspirational Moment
Not necessarily inspirational but some really enjoyable experiences. On bike - the challenging climb up to Cavagrande del Cassibile and the wonderful views from the top. Off bike - possibly arriving in Noto or the wander through Marzamemi - really was a picturesque fishing village, followed by Guiseppe’s picnic, relaxation and swim at the agriturisimo
Thoughts on Group Leader
Davida was a gentleman. Totally committed to ensuring we had a safe and enjoyable trip, kind and humorous. We liked his “stories” and his growing collection of English colloquialisms, that he tried to feed into daily conversation. He was well organised, ensuring an early start and finish so we had time to relax, swim or explore at the end of each ride. He knew, was proud of and described his country well. He wanted us to see the best of it ( and we almost did ). Took us to some lovely places to eat, to get the best pizza in Noto, antipasto in Syracuse and gelato and cannoli anywhere. A man with good taste! Giuseppe his assistant was a great supporter/driver/ bike mechanic and picnic provider. He has limited English but we managed to get by and the two made a good team.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be aware of how hot it can be in early June. Was 37degrees on day one. Didn’t fall below 30 all week. Davida sensibly had us out early each morning before it became unbearably hot. In some of the rural areas near the coast there were appalling amounts of rubbish dumped along the roadsides. We understood this was a result of political decisions about tax linked to recycling. This isn’t something Exodus are responsible for or able to change ( though I fear it could impact on tourism if it isn’t addressed). So very sad to destroy beautiful countryside.
Suggestions
Sicily is very interesting and well worth a visit - lots of lovely places to enjoy on this trip. Would highly recommend it. The accommodation was generally good - even the less smart places had the benefit of lovely hosts and good food. I liked the fact that there were no transfers and we cycled door to door each day, but we also had 2 nights in 2 hotels so didn’t have to pack up every morning
Cycling in sicily
The leader was excellent.
The support person Giuseppe was also excellent.
The bikes were good.
The routes were very good and well planned.
The accomodation was ok and variable. The starting accomodation had a disco night going till 2.0 pm just below our room!
Meals provided ranged from poor to good.
Most Inspirational Moment
Cycling gently along narrow country roads through rural Sicily.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Davide Di Mauro Was an excellent leader. Also mention the support, Giuseppe, also excellent.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Definitely use E bikes if you are older or not an experienced cyclist.
Suggestions
A great adventure with a very good group of companions
Start
Finish
Availability
Adult Price From
Optional Single Supplement
Sunday Sunday
01 Oct 2023 01 Oct 2023
Sunday Sunday
08 Oct 2023 08 Oct 2023
Availability Sold Out
Adult Price From USD 2,379
Optional Single Supplement +USD 427
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.
View Trip NotesSunday Sunday
08 Oct 2023 08 Oct 2023
Sunday Sunday
15 Oct 2023 15 Oct 2023
Availability Sold Out
Adult Price From USD 2,379
Optional Single Supplement +USD 427
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.
View Trip NotesSunday Sunday
15 Oct 2023 15 Oct 2023
Sunday Sunday
22 Oct 2023 22 Oct 2023
Availability Sold Out
Adult Price From USD 2,349
Optional Single Supplement
+USD 427
Available upon Request
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.
View Trip NotesSunday Sunday
14 Apr 2024 14 Apr 2024
Sunday Sunday
21 Apr 2024 21 Apr 2024
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Adult Price From USD 2,449
Optional Single Supplement +USD 525
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Sunday
05 May 2024 05 May 2024
Sunday Sunday
12 May 2024 12 May 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From USD 2,549
Optional Single Supplement +USD 525
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Sunday
19 May 2024 19 May 2024
Sunday Sunday
26 May 2024 26 May 2024
Availability Guaranteed (On Request) Only 5 spaces left!
Adult Price From USD 2,549
Optional Single Supplement +USD 525
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Sunday
26 May 2024 26 May 2024
Sunday Sunday
02 Jun 2024 02 Jun 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From USD 2,549
Optional Single Supplement +USD 525
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Sunday
02 Jun 2024 02 Jun 2024
Sunday Sunday
09 Jun 2024 09 Jun 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From USD 2,549
Optional Single Supplement +USD 525
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Sunday
23 Jun 2024 23 Jun 2024
Sunday Sunday
30 Jun 2024 30 Jun 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From USD 2,549
Optional Single Supplement +USD 525
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Sunday
01 Sep 2024 01 Sep 2024
Sunday Sunday
08 Sep 2024 08 Sep 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From USD 2,599
Optional Single Supplement +USD 525
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Sunday
08 Sep 2024 08 Sep 2024
Sunday Sunday
15 Sep 2024 15 Sep 2024
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Adult Price From USD 2,599
Optional Single Supplement +USD 525
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Sunday
15 Sep 2024 15 Sep 2024
Sunday Sunday
22 Sep 2024 22 Sep 2024
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Adult Price From USD 2,599
Optional Single Supplement +USD 525
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Sunday
22 Sep 2024 22 Sep 2024
Sunday Sunday
29 Sep 2024 29 Sep 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From USD 2,599
Optional Single Supplement +USD 525
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Sunday
29 Sep 2024 29 Sep 2024
Sunday Sunday
06 Oct 2024 06 Oct 2024
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Adult Price From USD 2,549
Optional Single Supplement +USD 525
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Sunday
06 Oct 2024 06 Oct 2024
Sunday Sunday
13 Oct 2024 13 Oct 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From USD 2,549
Optional Single Supplement +USD 525
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Sunday
13 Oct 2024 13 Oct 2024
Sunday Sunday
20 Oct 2024 20 Oct 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From USD 2,549
Optional Single Supplement +USD 525
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesWould you like to include flights with your booking?
- ATOL protected
- Competitive flight prices
- Full refunds in the event of FCDO cancellations or major disruption at your UK departure airport
- Specialist support to rearrange flights and transfers
- Regional flights available from many UK airports
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Cycling in Sicily
8 Days
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8 Days
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