Etna is the largest volcano in Europe, a popular tourist destination in Sicily and an important center for scientific research that allows thousands of geologists and volcanologists to collect their data. The contours of its shape stand out on the blue sky and dominate cities like Catania, Taormina e Acireale, which are some charming centers in Western Sicily. The Mount reaches a height of 3343 m., it has been included in UNESCO's “World Heritage List” in 2013 and it is admired by countless visitors since more than 3000 years.
Mount Etna has always been celebrated for its incredible beauty, connected to the uncontrollable power of Mother Nature and its ability to destroy everything at any time leaving no chance to escape. In fact, it is an active volcano whose mouths always let a plume of smoke spill out and eruptions are frequent. The numerous lava flows also modified the territory, creating a unique and peculiar environment.
“Etna Natural Park” presents some small inhabited centers, green woods, steep stone walls, arid areas, perpetual glaciers and many smoking mouths scattered along the mount's slopes. This is the ideal destination for travelers who love sports and natural excursions, as it offers dozens of different activities! The trekking trails are many and they sensitize on the necessity to protect this special environment. Both beginners and expert athletes will be invited to visit some incredible places, such as Valle del Bove, a volcanic depression with deep canyons, or Grotta del Gelo, a cave with perennial ice.
The Park can be visited in every period of the year and it is suitable for cycling, mountain climbing, trekking and ski lovers: actually, the snowy mount's peak welcomes thousands of skiers from December to April and it offers long trails and efficient ski-lifts! Moreover, it is right in this area that some important competition have taken place, like some recent “Giro d’Italia” editions.
Look at the amazing panoramic views from the top of the volcano and take a picture to the landscapes colored with citrus groves, infinte woods, vineyards and with the wonderful shades of the Sicilian sea. If you are lucky, you will also have the occasion to watch one of its eruptions, to look at its burning slopes and at the sky lighting up with beautiful lava gushes!
Organize your trip and book one of our villas for rent near Mount Etna! We suggest our Taormina Suite!
© Alice Pilastri
