Etna |
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B&B Surroundings:
Further info: www.apt.catania.it
All Etna Excursions/Tours can be arranged for you by 5 Balconi B&B, at no extra cost.
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Only 45 minutes away to the Sapienza Refuge but never out of sight, Etna is Europe's highest volcano (3323 mt.) and one of the largest in the world. It is gradually becoming more explosive and is constantly erupting.
(Occasionally, it is possible to see at night the glowing stream of molten lava flowing down the southern slopes, from our first balcony.)
From the refuge you can take the cable car and 4WD trucks up through the past lava flows, to the crater of the 2001/2 eruption which destroyed the cable-car and the 'Philosopher's Tower'. Alternatively, you can go by foot (a tough 4 hour climb) or if you want to see more, hire a qualified guide/vulcanologist for more extensive exploration of the summit.
Note: This can only be done with a guide due to the obvious dangers of spitting molten rocks and gas explosions.
It is spectacular in summer, offering great trekking up through the luxurious green chestnut and pinewoods, as it also is in winter when it is possible to ski and explore around 17th century craters.
In the foothills you can find interesting medieval villages, rich in local produce such as honey, pistachios and of course 'vino'. So, there's plenty to sample on your journey.
These villages are also accessible from the Circumetnea Railway, which departs from Catania and runs through citrus plantations, vines and nut trees offering endless views of the peak.
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