Etna & Taormina
The Sicilians call the massif that rises above them by a familiar term “A Muntagna”. Etna has also been dealing out benefits to the lands which lies at its feet. At every eruption the volcano deposits enormous quantities of minerals which make the orchards luxuriant and fruitful, as well as the vineyards and the vast woodland areas.
Mount Etna has always been experienced by Sicilians as a challenge against the forces of nature.
An active volcano for millions of years, Etna has marked the landscape with its lava flows, at times disastrous for the surrounding nature and for its inhabitants. Be sure to walk up and down the enormous lava dunes of Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano at approximately 3350 meters, and meander over its moonlike surface.
from Catania
Pick-up by your private Driver at your hotel and board a Premium Mercedes. The day starts with Mount ETNA. Drive up (1h) the volcano till 6500 feet reaching the Silvestri Craters.
The Volcanic Part
On the way admire the landscape and the vineyards growing in the shadow of Mount Etna inside the DOC wine production area. An eruption from 2001 left its mark at the Rifugio Sapienza area. Enjoy a walk at the nearby Silvestri Craters or simply soak up the atmosphere of the volcano. Possibility to reach 9500 feet by cable car (optional and weather permitting). The summit craters represent the area where activities continually change the morphology of the vulcano.
Taormina
Continue to lovely Taormina, the pearl of the Ionian Sea. Enjoy this pleasant town including also the Greek Theatre which has inspired generations of travelers and artists. The town is located on the Monte Tauro hill dominating two grand bays below and on the southern side, the top of Mount Etna.
Drop off at your hotel.
If someone had to spend just one day in Sicily and asked “What ought I to see?” The answer without hesitation is “Taormina”. The view is among the loveliest of Italy. The panorama is dominated by the Volcano Etna, often topped with snow and always smoking. The vegetation is lush with sub-tropical plants, the climate is delightful.
