Sicily
land of sea and scorching sun, of woods and natural parks visited by those who take advantage of the long-awaited summer holidays.
Etna
which during the summer season is dressed in the black of lapilli and scoriaceous lava, in autumn in the shades of the foliage and in spring in the bright colors of endemic plants.
But walking on the snow cover that covers the highest active volcano in Europe as if it were a sprinkling of icing sugar (..we are in the full Christmas spirit), this is one of the experiences you absolutely cannot give up.
I advise you to include this experience in your to do list of dream nature trips!
Etna in winter, where to go and what to explore
Visiting Etna in winter means entering a fairy-tale environment, finding yourself in front of magical landscapes made unique by the contrast of colors between lava and snow, walking through snow-covered woods that embrace the small mountain villages, enjoying a good hot chocolate in a refuge among the extinct craters of the volcano.
And if I haven’t convinced you yet, I’ll list the experiences and activities you can do on Etna in winter together with some advice that will certainly be useful for living the experience in total safety.
The snow cover covers the volcano from December to March, so you still have time to book your holiday on Etna in winter!
Whether you are a lover of winter sports activities or simply want to relax with your family, you will find the right activity for you.
Two tourist resorts dominate the volcano even in winter.
Etna South – Rifugio Sapienza
Etna South-Nicolosi, a tourist location that will allow you to explore 5 extinct craters (Silvestri Craters) covered by a light snow cover
observe unique sunsets favored by the humidity and cold winds but above all visit the summit area of the volcano with the Etna cable car
Choose among our Tours those that include the exploration of the Silvestri Craters in the “Itinerary” item like the Tour Etna Morning or Etna Sunset.
For more info you can also look at our Instagram Post Etna South Silvestri Craters – 6 Things to Do
Etna North – Piano Provenzana
Etna North-Linguaglossa, a tourist resort on the north side where you can ski on the active volcano while looking at the sea and Calabria. Ski slopes suitable for both beginners and experts. Ski lift, chair lift and 22 km of blue and red slopes open every day in winter, weather and snow conditions permitting.
A tourist location certainly more suitable for lovers of winter sports, skiing and snowboarding, but also for families with children looking for fun and relaxation between a sled ride and a hot chocolate in a refuge.
Imagine your children’s smiles as they try to make a big snowman!
Choose the Family Tour if you visit Etna with the family.
Trekking on Etna even in winter, can it be done?
If, however, you are a trekking lover and want to explore the most hidden places of the volcano on foot, even in winter it is possible! Walking along a snowy path is not at all easy, you could lose your bearings and not find your way back.
For safety reasons, we recommend that you always rely on an expert local guide, who will also be able to evaluate the feasibility of the route based on the weather and snow conditions as well as recommend the appropriate technical clothing.
Choose Trekking Silvestri Craters or Trekking Valle del Bove if you want to explore Etna trekking with us.
Etna South – Silvestri Craters
Locations and activities that can satisfy all types of needs and expectations, but without adequate clothing, your winter holiday on Etna could become a bad nightmare!
How to dress in winter on Etna, advice on clothing and equipment
Temperatures of around 7-8 °C at 1900 m and even below 0 °C at around 3000 m, dressing in an onion shape (in layers) is certainly the best choice.
So let’s start with thermal t-shirts, fleece/down jackets, technical trousers and the inevitable windbreaker complete with scarf, waterproof gloves and hood in tow. Don’t forget your trekking shoes, which are high, sturdy and waterproof!
If all this does not fit in your suitcase, it will be possible to rent clothing and equipment at the tourist station of Piano Provenzana (Etna North) or at the arrival station of the Etna cable car (Etna South) at an altitude of 2500 m.
Etna Summit Craters
The Etna winter between volcanic activity and regenerating experiences. But if I haven’t convinced you yet, I’ll tell you what you’ll find around the volcano.
Winter around the volcano, what to see?
The “plume” from the fireplaces of the many villages on the slopes of Etna, the historic buildings, the churches and the local products of the small villages such as wine in Milo, pistachio in Bronte and honey in Zafferana Etnea which you can taste during all our Tours.
Typical are the traditional activities of the farmers who clean and prepare the land while waiting for the seasonal fruits
lights and illuminations, the Christmas markets of the villages such as that of Nicolosi “La Porta dell’Etna” and in the city center of Catania, an entire city that stops during the three days of Sant’Agata, 72 hours of celebration from 3 to 5 February, a global celebration to celebrate the Virgin and Martyr Patron Saint of the city.
And if you want to cross the lava fields of the volcano with its small villages, remaining seated in a comfortable armchair, I recommend you get on board the Ferrovia Circumetnea train.
Historic railway route that passes through the main villages in about 3 hours starting from Catania Borgo station.
You can also choose the “Wine Bus” route to travel the Etna wine route, discover the most beautiful wineries in the area and taste their wines. Visit the FCE website for updated departure times.
A slow tourism, between Nordic views and traditions, nature, culture, sport and relaxation, to appreciate everything better.
Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe, awaits you… even in winter!
