Embrace the Mystical Aura of Mt. Etna

As the Spring Equinox dawns upon Nicolosi, the air is filled with a sense of renewal and adventure. The towering presence of Mt. Etna beckons thrill-seekers to explore its majestic landscapes. On March 22nd, embark on the Etna Wine Adventure tour, starting at 8:30 AM. This exhilarating journey takes you through ancient craters and lava tube caves, offering a unique perspective of Sicily’s natural wonders. The overcast skies add a mystical touch to the experience, as you trek through the natural paths of Parco dell’Etna and visit the Silvestri Craters. The tour culminates with a wine tasting at Enoteca Dell’Etna, where you can savor the rich flavors of Sicilian wines.

“Etna tour with colleagues - I took part in an organized tour on top of Etna with a nice group of work colleagues from all over the world. You arrive by bus at 2000 meters to the Sapienza Refuge and then continue either by cable car or with off-road Jeeps, a forced option in this case since the cable car was under maintenance. The tour offered beautiful views also thanks to the perfect clear weather, but objectively the jeep tour is very uncomfortable, much better the cable car if it had been available. After the tour up to 2700 we visited some natural caves carved by lava, and then had a super lunch with wine tasting at a local winery. I found the guides very prepared, kind and helpful, tour recommended!” - Reviewed on 2024-12-20

The moderate wind and high humidity add an element of challenge to the trek, making it a perfect adventure for those who thrive on adrenaline. Don’t forget to pack your trekking shoes and a light jacket to stay comfortable throughout the day.

Discover the Charm of Zafferana Etnea

On March 23rd, as the skies clear and the sun graces Nicolosi with its warmth, it’s the perfect day to explore the charming town of Zafferana Etnea. Join the Etna Guided Tour at 8:00 AM, where you’ll be whisked away to the south side of Mt. Etna. The journey begins with a visit to the Silvestri Craters, offering breathtaking views from 2000 meters above sea level. As you walk on the extinct craters, the crisp morning air invigorates your senses, setting the tone for an unforgettable day.

The tour continues with a visit to the Valle Del Bove, a large basin formed by ancient volcanic activity. Here, you can marvel at the geological wonders and learn about the history of Etna’s eruptions. The highlight of the day is a visit to Oro d’Etna, where you can indulge in a free tasting of honey, olive oil, and local delicacies. The experience is a feast for the senses, as you savor the flavors of Sicily and immerse yourself in its rich culture.

“Spectacular day on Mt Etna - We had an amazing day with Manuel! He picked us up close to our hotel and we headed off for Mount Etna! Along the way we stopped at a honey farm where we were able to taste different flavors of honey. Also, We were given an education about the bees! A quick note: this was the most economical place to purchase the honey. We continued our journey, stopping along the way in a quaint town, where we visited that beautiful cathedral. Then we headed to Mount Etna! The views were breathtaking! Manual took pictures of our group at all of our stops, he was very very kind. We stopped at a restaurant on the mountain and we enjoyed chocolate tastings and some of creamier alcoholic drinks that are sold all over Sicily. Both were delicious. It was nice to be able to sample the products. We then went off the beaten path to enjoy a stunning area in a private serene place. He taught us all about the chestnut trees, the volcano, and the history of the area. We ended our tour at the famous Gambino winery. I can’t say enough good about this place. It was beautiful and the wines were outstanding. We had a pairing with many different foods and many different wines! You will not leave hungry! Each table was appointed, an educator about the wines and the food -which were all local to the area. The 2015 Etna wines were our favorite! He delivered us back to our hotel! Safely (you will know what that means when you get here-lol). Manuel made this a very special day for our vacation here in Sicily with our friends.” - Reviewed on 2024-10-01

As the afternoon progresses, the skies become partially cloudy, providing a picturesque backdrop for your exploration. The mild temperatures make it an ideal day for walking tours and outdoor dining, allowing you to fully embrace the vibrant atmosphere of Nicolosi.

Savor the Flavors of Sicilian Wines

No visit to Nicolosi is complete without indulging in the exquisite wines of the region. The Etna Guided Tour offers a delightful wine tasting experience at Gambino Winery, where you can sample a variety of Etna wines paired with local cheeses, cured meats, and other delicacies. The winery’s serene setting and panoramic views create a perfect ambiance for relaxation and enjoyment.

The tour provides an opportunity to learn about the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of Etna wines. As you sip on the rich, volcanic flavors, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into each bottle. The experience is a celebration of Sicilian culture and tradition, offering a taste of the island’s vibrant spirit.

“Fabulous private tour of Etna with wine tasting at the Gambino winery - We had a great day out visiting Mt Etna, a local honey farm and the Gambino Vini winery. This was a private tour for my wife and me, not cheap, but worth every penny. The guide was great, car was comfortable and clean. His knowledge about Etna, the local region and wider Sicily was excellent. We went to 2000m on Etna, however, due to the amount packed into the day there was not time to go on the cable car, but we did not feel that we had missed out as we had such a rounded experience, visit to a lava flow, a lovely panoramic view across a valley, visit to the Oro d’ell Etna honey farm and finished off with a wonderful wine tasting visit to the Gambino Vini winery, where the wines and food were fabulous. It was a full day, pickup from the hotel at 9:30 and arrive back at 17:00. Highly recommended!” - Reviewed on 2024-06-22

As the day comes to a close, the overcast skies and cool evening air provide a serene atmosphere for reflection. The Spring Equinox celebrations in Nicolosi offer a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation, making it an unforgettable destination for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.