The 19 Most Amazing Peaks around Sant'Alfio

A beautiful, short hike to the summit of Monte Zoccolaro with panoramic views of Mount Etna and the Valle del Bove caldera (lava flow from 1991-1993). Don't be fooled; there are actually two paths leading to the summit. The western one (= former road) runs through nowhere. With a lot of intuition and perseverance, you can continue from here, but there is no defined path to the summit—until you reach the marked path from the hut! The actual path to the summit is marked (trail 704), but it is a real, partly overgrown, sunken path that occasionally winds very close to the edge. Caution: after heavy rains, part of the edge could slide away. The cross on the summit of Monte Zoccolaro dates back to 1948, when priest Salvatore Russo, along with some parishioners, carried it on his shoulders to the summit of the mountain. Here, it was inscribed with the words: Prayer, Deed, Sacrifice and firmly anchored. Every year on September 14th – the day the cross was erected – a mass is celebrated at the foot of the monument at 9 a.m. In good weather, the view over the Val Bove is breathtaking, and the summit is one of the privileged vantage points for witnessing Etna's eruptions at night. It's worth it, but it's more than just a short walk!

What is crazy is that the ground is still warm to hot 23 years after the eruption in 2001.

A must. Expensive, but worth it. Very impressive. Only with a mountain guide.

Does anyone know how expensive a guide from Torre Filosofo to the crater is?

An exceptional spot…. A must see.

A total change of scenery, it’s magical!!!

Europe's largest active volcano, whose height can vary due to its constant activity, is not only a natural wonder but also a place of rich mythological history. Its current height is reported to be around 3323 meters and the volcano itself was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013. Reaching the crater is a challenge that is rewarded with unique impressions and the majestic beauty of nature. To reach the crater you can use a cable car from 2000 to 2500 meters and then take one of the off-road buses up to about 3000 meters. This trip goes through protected areas, so the local regulations of the Parco dell'Etna must be strictly observed. It is possible to climb Etna without hiking poles, although an early start is recommended. Some hikers report successful climbs without a guide, but this is risky and is not appreciated by the guides. The importance of an experienced guide cannot be overstated, especially to safely navigate the often changing weather conditions and volcanic activity. Standing on the edge of the active volcanic crater, looking down into the depths and feeling the forces of nature is an overwhelming experience that has been described as indescribable and awe-inspiring. Hikers' experiences range from sightings of mist laced with sulphur fumes to breathtaking views during the descent. It is recommended to sign up for the tour directly with a local mountain guide organization. In addition to good footwear, important equipment items include headbands or hats against the cold wind and a scarf or face mask against the sulphurous gases. Renting jackets at the top of the cable car or after the ride on the 4x4 buses is recommended for the often windy conditions near the crater rim. The experience at the Cratere dell'Etna is an impressive testimony to the forces of nature and offers a unique opportunity to experience the majestic and wild beauty of Etna up close.

The journey to Etna leads through a landscape marked by volcanic activity. Plumes of smoke rising from various parts of the main crater and the secondary craters testify to the tireless dynamism beneath the earth's surface. This constantly changing environment, where snow covers the peaks as early as autumn, forms a breathtaking backdrop characterized by the wild and dangerous beauty of the volcano. The experience of standing in the gray vastness of the volcanic landscape makes one feel one's own smallness in the face of the mighty forces of nature. Nevertheless, or perhaps because of this, the beauty of this place is breathtaking. The view from the peaks of Etna offers an incomparable panorama that stretches from the island of Sicily to the vast horizon of the Mediterranean. To explore this extraordinary hiking highlight, it is important to observe the local regulations of the Parco dell'Etna and to climb with an experienced mountain guide due to the potential dangers. Being accompanied by an expert not only ensures safety during the hike, but also offers the opportunity to learn more about the volcanic activity, geological features and history of Etna. In addition to the expert guide, you should also make sure you have appropriate equipment, especially enough water and protection from the changeable weather conditions that can change quickly at high altitudes.