Mount Etna: Trekking, Lava Cave & Sicilian Wine Tasting

Summary

Walk ancient craters taste Etna wines and explore lava caves

You’ll hike across ancient lava fields on Mount Etna with a local guide, explore a real lava cave by torchlight, then relax over lunch at a family-run winery tasting native Sicilian wines. Expect earthy smells, volcanic views, and honest conversation—the kind of day that lingers long after you’re back at your hotel.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the ground to crunch so loudly under my boots—like walking on burnt toast. Our guide, Salvo, grinned when I stopped to listen. “Lava remembers,” he said, which sounded poetic but also a bit ominous. The air was sharp and clean up there, almost cold even though the sun was out. We’d left Catania behind maybe an hour ago, but it felt like another planet already.

The trek wasn’t hard—just enough to get your heart going. At one point we ducked into a lava flow cave, helmets on and torches flickering against the black walls. It smelled faintly of earth and something metallic. I tried to imagine the heat that once rushed through here. Salvo told us stories about old eruptions; he made a joke about Sicilian mothers being tougher than volcanoes, which got a laugh from everyone except maybe his own mother (she wasn’t there, but you could tell).

Lunch came after we’d wandered along the terraced vineyards—those vines clinging stubbornly to black soil. The winery felt like someone’s home: dogs sleeping in the sun, a woman slicing cheese with practiced hands. The wine tasting started casual but got lively fast; I still think about that first sip of carricante, all citrus and salt somehow. We ate slow, talked long, and nobody seemed in any rush to leave for once.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Etna trekking and wine tasting

• Explore lava flow cave with helmet
• Visit extinct craters at 2000 meters
• Soft trekking suitable for everyone
• Return to accommodation for lunch
• Wine tasting in Etna winery cellar

Top questions

How long does the Mount Etna trekking and wine tour take?

The tour is a full-day experience including trekking, cave exploration, winery visit with lunch and wine tasting.

Is hotel pickup included for the Mount Etna day trip?

Yes, private transportation with hotel pickup is included in the tour.

Do I need special equipment for the lava cave?

No special equipment needed; helmets and torches are provided by the guides.

Is lunch included during the Mount Etna wine tour?

Yes, lunch is included at a local winery along with wine tasting.

What physical level is required for this Etna trekking tour?

The soft trekking route is suitable for all fitness levels.

Are children allowed on this Mount Etna excursion?

Yes, infants and small children can join; strollers and infant seats are available.

What happens if weather conditions are bad on Etna?

If weather or road conditions are poor in winter, activities may be held at lower altitudes for safety.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off, guided soft trekking on Mount Etna’s slopes with all necessary gear for exploring a real lava cave (helmets and torches), plus a traditional Sicilian lunch paired with native wines at an authentic local winery before heading back in comfort.