One of the world’s most active volcanoes and the highest active volcano in Europe, 35 km northwest of Catania and 56 km southwest of Taormina.<\/p>\n
The 3,326 meters high mountain has 5 distinctive craters at its summit, and more than 300 air vents of various sizes on its flanks.
\nThe most destructive eruption in the last 2,000 years was the 1,669 eruption, resulting in 10 villages destruction and minor damage in Catania.<\/p>\n
The mountain is the main attraction in eastern Sicily attracting visitors from all over the world for thousands of years.
\nThe Etna Mountain always had great impact on the people and towns living in its shadows. On one hand, its eruptions resulting lava, dust and destruction, and on the other, fertile volcanic soils resulting in the best conditions for the agriculture on its slopes and adjacent plains.<\/p>\n
Recent eruptions of the mountain are relatively safe, drawing people from all over the world to view the amazing sights of smoke and rivers of lava.
\nExploring the crater, enjoying the great landscape, hiking and off road 4×4 traveling in the mountain’s various trails, are all great experiences.<\/p>\n
The fertile slopes of the mountain and the surrounding planes are used for wine growing and production in addition to the locally growing ingredients used for the fabulous local dishes. Stop by at one of the nearby villages or towns and enjoy the local food and wine.
\nStart your visit at the mountain at one of the two entry points.<\/p>\n
At Sapienza Refuge ski area, the entrance gate in the south at elevation 1910 meters, take the cable car or hike to 2,500 meters elevation, and from there its 2-4 hours round trip to the 2,910 meters elevation summit crater.<\/p>\n
You can also start at Piano Provenzana ski area in the north. Hike or use the 4×4 buses to reach the 2,400 meters observatory, from where you can hike to the summit craters.
\nAnother option is to use the Ferrovia Circumetnea, a Round-Etna railway, that runs around the volcano in a 110-km long semi-circle, with a route that starts in Catania and ends in Riposto<\/strong>, 28\u00a0km north of Catania.<\/p>\n\n