Pick-up (Taormina and Nearby Area)
We will pick you up outside/nearby your accommodation in Taormina or in its close vicinity (depending on the accommodation’s location, we will organize a convenient meeting point) between 8.30 and 9.00 AM. Each of our vehicles can accommodate up to 8 participants.
Guided trekking at 1800 – 2000 m. - Etna North
It takes about one hour to arrive at Etna North to our camp base. There, you will take the needed equipment for the hike (we can provide trekking boots and jackets upon request). Then our expert naturalistic guide will take the lead and walk you through ancient woods and extinct craters. Also, he will introduce you to the spectacular volcanic phenomena occurred over time. The walk will be your chance to learn about the typical and unique flora of the North-Etnean area and the many facts related to the volcano. While marveling at the beauties of Mount Etna, you will also hear all about the folks of Etna, about their traditions and customs and get to discover in depths the link between man and nature. The trekking part will last 1 hour and half – 2 hours.
Volcanic Cave
After that, you will be able to get in the volcanic underground and visit one of the striking volcanic caves of our volcano; we will provide helmets and torchlights. During this part, the guide will explain the origins, characteristics, and uses of this fascinating volcanic phenomenon.
Lunch & Wine Tasting
Then, you will stop by a winery in the Etnean city of Linguaglossa, where you will taste an authentic typical Sicilian lunch made from fresh local products. Every course will be paired with a matching Mount Etna wine, each rigorously DOP-labelled and locally produced (vegan/vegetarian/gluten-free options available upon request).
Alcantara Gorges
As final step of the day, you will stop at the River Park of the Alcantara Gorges. These originated when thick lava flows reached the icy Alcantara river and formed these geometrically perfect rocks. You will be amazed at the sight of this river streaming through the high walls that form the gorge; also you will be able to walk along the watercourse.
Drop-off
At the end of the Mount Etna Wine and Alcantara tour, at around 6.00/6.30 PM, the guide will drop you off at the starting point.
Included in the booking
Naturalistic English-speaking guide (geologists, volcanologists, forestry-experts or agronomists); pickup and transport, lunch and wine tasting by Etnean winery, entrance fee to the Alcantara Gorges, insurance and equipment.
Languages
English and Italian. Spanish and French are available upon request if informed with adeguate notice.
Recommended equipment
We recommend wearing comfortable and season-appropriate clothes, hiking boots or training shoes (please consider that the temperature on Etna is generally lower). We can provide windproof jackets and hiking boots, although, if possible, we suggest you wear your own hiking boots or trainers, as you already know they fit well. In case you don’t have any, you can borrow our shoes and jackets for free; if you want to borrow our boots we recommend you wear/bring a pair of socks with you. We suggest you bring with you a bag/backpack with a bottle of water, a jacket, a hat and sunblock; we also remind you to bring a swimsuit/pair of shorts, flip-flops and a towel for the stop at the Gorges (in summertime).
Requirements
This activity is suitable for people of all ages with good health conditions. We don’t recommend participation to those who are not in a good state of health, especially to those suffering from cardio-respiratory conditions.
Itinerary changes
The itinerary might be subjected to variations due to factors such as weather conditions and/or if deemed necessary.