1 h 20 m
RIFUGIO SAPIENZA
Discover Mount Etna – Europe’s Highest Active Volcano
Mount Etna is one of Sicily’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rising over 3,300 meters (10,900 feet) above sea level, Etna is the highest active volcano in Europe and offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural significance.
Located about 40 km (25 miles) from Down South Catania, Mount Etna is a must-see destination for travelers exploring eastern Sicily. Our apartment is conveniently located on Via San Gaetano 50, just a few minutes’ walk from the Catania bus station, making it easy to reach Etna even without a car.
Getting There – Easy and Affordable
You can reach Rifugio Sapienza (Etna South base station) by public bus operated by AST. The bus departs daily from Catania’s central bus station, which is near the apartment. It’s a budget-friendly option, ideal for travelers looking to avoid car rentals.
Keep in mind:
- There is typically one departure in the morning and one return in the afternoon.
- The ride takes approximately 2 hours.
- It’s recommended to check the current schedule in advance, especially during holidays or low season.
What to See
- Crater Zones: Explore the awe-inspiring summit craters (with a certified guide), or visit the more accessible Silvestri Craters near Rifugio Sapienza.
- Lava Fields: Walk across ancient lava flows that paint the landscape in shades of black and red, a reminder of the volcano’s powerful past.
- Volcanic Caves: Discover hidden lava tubes like the Grotta del Gelo, a natural ice cave, or Grotta dei Tre Livelli, one of the longest lava tubes in Sicily.
- Panoramic Views: On clear days, enjoy breathtaking views stretching from the Ionian coast to mainland Italy.
What to Do
- Hiking and Trekking: Trails vary from easy to challenging, suitable for all levels. Popular routes start from Rifugio Sapienza (South side) or Piano Provenzana (North side).
- Cable Car & 4×4 Tours: Take the cable car from the southern base up to 2,500 meters, then continue by 4×4 to get closer to the summit.
- Wine Tasting: Etna’s volcanic soil produces some of Sicily’s finest wines. Visit local wineries along the Strada del Vino dell’Etna.
- Skiing in Winter: Etna offers ski slopes with sea views – a rare and unforgettable experience from December to March.
- Guided Tours: Join expert-led tours for geology, photography, or astronomy enthusiasts, especially during nighttime excursions.
What to Wear and Bring for Your Etna Trip
✅ Comfortable walking or hiking shoes – the terrain can be rocky and uneven
✅ Warm layers – temperatures drop quickly at higher altitudes, even in summer
✅ Windbreaker or light jacket – it’s often windy near the craters
✅ Sunscreen – the sun is strong, especially above the clouds
✅ Hat and sunglasses – for sun protection
✅ Water bottle – staying hydrated is important
✅ Snacks – especially if you’re hiking or spending a few hours on the volcano
✅ Backpack – to carry your essentials comfortably
✅ Camera or phone – for amazing photos!
Tip: If you’re visiting in late autumn, winter, or early spring, bring gloves, a hat, and possibly a scarf – it can feel like winter at the top!