The Smoking Giant
Bite-sized trip
Day 1 – Arrive at Etna
Arrive on the fertile and picturesque north side of Mount Etna. As you arrive at the estate, you’ll discover an ancient agriturismo nestled among enchanting grapevines and olive trees, providing an idyllic setting overlooking the breathtaking Alcantara valley. Your journey to this tranquil haven begins from Catania airport, just an hour’s drive away. Upon arrival, you’ll find yourself immersed in the rolling vineyards and majestic oaks stretching out before you, with a captivating view that extends all the way down to the stunning coast. In the soothing shade of the olive trees, take a moment to soak in the serenity that surrounds you. The estate primarily focuses on grape cultivation for wine production, adding to the authentic and rustic charm of your stay.
Days 2-3 – Etna volcano and wine tasting
After seeing it from afar, today is the day to get up close and personal with the magnificent Etna volcano. While most tourists opt for the south side, you’ll be heading to the quieter and more diverse landscape of the north side. If the weather is good and the volcano remains calm, you can take a 4×4 bus to the northeast crater, perched at an impressive 2800 meters. You’ll travel past petrified lava and steaming cracks in the ground, unveiling the raw power and beauty of Mount Etna as you make your way to the Etna crater itself.
After an exhilarating encounter with Etna, it’s time to rinse off the dust and head to a delightful spot for some wine tasting. A short twenty-minute drive from your agriturismo will bring you to the renowned Gambino winery. Here, the sommelier will warmly welcome you to the wine cellar, where you’ll have the pleasure of learning about the different wines produced by the house. As Italians believe in pairing wine with food, you’ll be treated to small but delightful snacks that complement the tasting experience perfectly. The rest of the day is yours to revel in the relaxed pace of the countryside. The region offers an abundance of walking trails. Alternatively, venture to the nearby coastal town of Gardini Naxos, where you can soak in the charm of the larger coastal communities.
Day 4 – Departure agriturismo Etna
This morning, take a final dip in the pool and then it’s time to travel again. If you want to see even more volcanoes, go island hopping across the Aeolians or to learn more about the life of a Sicilian fisherman and relax on the beach at the port town of Cefalú, a two-and-a-half hour drive away.
Accommodation
For this bite-sized trip we offer the following options
Etna – Pizza making sikelia
Pizza … Perhaps the tastiest Italian dish ever invented. Today you will learn how to make pizza like a real Sicilian. In the afternoon you will meet your expert, who will show you the fine tricks of rolling and kneading dough. As you immerse yourself in the process, you’ll discover the secrets to crafting the perfect dough and the art of creating delectable toppings. As the aroma of freshly baked pizza fills the air, your anticipation will grow, and finally, it’s time to relish the fruits of your labour. Sit back and savor your homemade pizzas, each crafted with love and care, and enjoy the taste of true Sicilian authenticity.
