Sicily’s Volcanoes
Sicily sits on the fault line of the European and African tectonic plates, whose jostlings have created a chain of volcanoes, most famously Mount Etna. This is a tour through some of the most dramatic landscapes in southern Europe: active volcanoes and volcanic islands; amazing rock formations created by a river forging through a gorge of solidified lava; hot springs, steaming sulphurous fumeroles and black beaches. Food- and wine-lovers will find that the fertile volcanic soil produces some of Italy’s best wine, cheese, fruits and nuts.
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ACTIVITIES
Enjoy a lazy morning on the beach at Mazzarò then head into the hills
Cool off with a swim in ponds between waterfalls near Francavilla
Taste unique volcanic wines from the vineyards of Etna Nord
Hike in the Nebrodi mountains or trek to the top of Stromboli
Novara di Sicilia rises from its hilltop vantage point in the Peloritani mountain range
PLAN YOUR DRIVE
Start/finish: Taormina to the Aeolian Islands.
Number of days: 3–4, allowing half a day in Taormina and a day on Salina.
Distance: Taormina to Milazzo 159 km (99 miles).
Road conditions: Well-paved and signposted, some steep terrain. Etna can be snow-bound in winter.
When to go: Spring and autumn to avoid the heat and crowds. Winter is often sunny but the Aeolian Islands can be cut off by storms.
Opening hours: Most shops open 9am–8pm with a 3-hour lunch break. Most museums and archaeological sites are closed Mondays.
Main market days: Taormina: Wed; Randazzo: Sun; Maletto: Sun; Santa Marina Salina: every other Wed.
Shopping: Etna wines, Nebrodi cheese and capers and Malvasia from Salina are sold throughout the area.
Major festivals: Randazzo: Medieval Festival, Oct; Maletto Strawberry Festival, 1st Sun Jun; Bronte: Pistachio Festival, Oct; Pollara: Caper Festival, Jun.
DAY TRIP OPTIONS
Explore Taormina, then cool off with a swim in a gorge; visit Nelson’s castle and walk in the Nebrodi or indulge in pistachio treats; drive around Etna and sample its wines. For details, see Day Trip Options.
Enjoying the sea at the tiny old port of Pollara on Isola Salina, where Il Postino was filmed