If there’s a place in Italy where the sun always shines, it’s Sicily. In spring, you can go from the warmth of the beach to the cold snows of Etna, at 3,000 metres (9,800 ft) above sea level, in just a few hours – truly immersing yourself in the diversity of the island’s landscapes.

“It was an incredible experience to live in these ever-changing places” – said Marika, hiking guide and outdoor life enthusiast who recently discovered Vulcano, Stromboli, Panarea and Etna for herself. In this Collection, she reveals her experience.

📍How to get around
Catania’s airport is connected to the centre by the Alibus service. However, to reach the Aeolian Islands, you’ll need to transfer to Milazzo and from there take a hydrofoil. Milazzo can be reached by train or bus from Catania.

🛖 Where to stay
Sicily is a very touristy region, so finding accommodation is easy. However, there are fewer hotels open during the low season, so advance planning is essential.

📆 When to go
The best seasons are spring and autumn, when the temperatures are mild. Hiking in summer is possible but it’s best to avoid the midday heat.

🎒 Equipment
Decent hiking footwear, sunscreen and breathable clothes are recommended, while warm layers are necessary for windy days and during the night. A headlamp, a water bottle, some snacks and a camera for those breathtaking views are also recommended.

⚠️ Important
As the routes take place on active volcanoes, some areas can only be accessed with a qualified volcanologist guide. Consulting the weather forecast is also key, as the hydrofoil services won’t run when the seas are rough.

See you in Sicily.