サンタヴェネリーナのおすすめ登山＆山歩きルート

One of the most beautiful lava tunnels on the north side of Mount Etna is the Serracozzo Grotto (surely often visited, but not signposted). A lava tunnel is not a cave, but rather one formed during an eruption, when a crust forms on the surface of the slowly flowing lava in flatter terrain. This "tunnel" is easy to enter (assuming there's no threat of a thunderstorm (flooding!) or ice and snow making entry dangerous). Don't forget your flashlight; two cave-ins in the ceiling provide sufficient light until halfway through the tunnel, after which it becomes very shallow and pitch-dark in places. It's worth exploring!

Small refuge but with everything you need, I really enjoyed making a little stop here before starting my route in the Sartorius Mountains. Excellent

You can sleep here or just have something to eat or drink. Fair prices for a mountain hut and a great view of Etna and the sea.

This cave was formed from a lava flow that cooled and solidified on the outside, but continued to flow inside, leaving a hollow space behind. The Grotta Serracozzo is particularly impressive because it has collapsed in two places, allowing daylight to enter.

This cave, formed from the solidified lava rock of past eruptions, is a fascinating testament to volcanic activity and offers a rare insight into Sicily's geological history. When visiting this highlight, which is located in the protected area of the Parco dell'Etna, it is important to respect local regulations. The park was established to protect the unique landscape surrounding the volcano and to preserve the natural flora and fauna. Visitors are encouraged to respect the paths and leave no trace in order to preserve this extraordinary place for future generations. The hike continues uphill and eventually reaches the edge of the upper valley, where there are impressive views of the surrounding volcanic landscape. The classic route includes a descent down a volcanic sand gully on the way back, an experience that will be remembered not only for the spectacular scenery but also for the unique way of getting around. Discovering a cave in lava rock is not only an adventure, but also a lesson in geology and volcanology. It makes it possible to feel the forces that shape the earth and admire the quiet beauty that can arise from destruction. For anyone who wants to explore the wonder of Etna and its hidden treasures, this hike offers an incomparable experience that impressively illustrates the fascination of the volcano.

Magical and mysterious!

Rifugio Citelli, donated in 1934 by Professor Salvatore Citelli to the CAI, stands on the top of Monte Concazze, a former crater with a panoramic view. Inaugurated in 1935, it experienced ups and downs until its renovation in 2012. Now, it is a favorite destination for ski mountaineering and trekking on the slopes of Etna. https://www.rifugiocitelli.it/il-rifugio/

Refuge located at 1740 meters above sea level in the north-east area of Etna. We are at the top of Mount Concazze.