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Mount Etna Hikes Weekend Adventure

Hike along the volcanic trails on the flanks of Mount Etna and discover the wild landscapes of this Sicilian icon.

  • Sicily

  • Breakfast
  • Mountains

    Landscape

  • Sep

  • Average group size: 10-12

What does this mean?

Challenging

What does this mean?

3 Nights

From

£459
Tour only
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Walking grade

Grade 6

Your holiday will include challenging hikes through beautiful scenery set against the stunning back drop of Mount Etna. Expect to walk on mountain paths, farm tracks, through ancient villages and lovely rural scenery. 

At first glance, some of the walks might appear to be easier than expected at grade 6. However, all walks are on rough and broken paths that can be overgrown at time, so please be prepared with clothing that covers your arms and legs. The routes include very long and rough descents, with unstable terrain. Some of the walks do not include a lot of shade, and heat and humidity in Sicily also makes the walks more challenging. 

Walks will be full days with ascents and descents of 250-905. You will be walking between 4-9 miles a day. The maximum altitude reached on this holiday is 2060 on Monte Nero.

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Classic Collection

Thoughtfully designed, meticulously planned, carefully graded, and expertly guided walking tours and hiking holidays along well-loved and off-the-beaten-track footpaths.

Overview

Holiday Highlights

  • Embark on a Sicilian adventure.
  • Take on a series of Mount Etna hikes to earn unbeatable views.
  • Explore the slopes and surrounds of the largest active volcano in Europe.
  • Stay in a family-run hotel, nestled in a valley between Etna and Alcantara park.

On the same latitude as part of the North African coast and tempered by sea breezes, Sicily is the largest of the Mediterranean Islands. Mount Etna, at 3,357m tall the highest point on Sicily, dominates the island. Visible from almost every corner, the active volcano, the highest in Europe, is ever-present on this exciting hiking weekend break.

You'll spend your short break in Castiglione di Sicilia, a small Sicilian town nestled in a valley between Etna and the Alcantara Park. It's a picturesque place with small houses and historical buildings perched upon a hill on the north side of Etna. As a centre it offers some of the finest walking to be had. Start to discover the region with a memorable hike around the base of Monte Nero, a dormant crater that will give you a sense of the region's explosive past.

Next up is a glorious but challenging hike along the Monte Pizzo Ridge. The higher you reach, the more spectacular the views across the island are, looking out across dried lava flows and dune landscapes, to vineyards and villages, the ocean beyond and even to the Italian mainland across the straights of Messina.

  • En suite three-star accommodation on bed and breakfast basis, including local tourist tax.
  • All local transport required for the itinerary by private coach/public bus.
  • A walk on the upper slopes of Mount Etna.
  • All entrances as noted in the itinerary.
  • Services of a Classic Tour Leader.
  • Return flights.
  • Airport transfers.
  • Lunches and dinners.
  • Entrance fees (unless otherwise specified).
  • Personal expenses (such as your bar bill).
  • Discretionary tips.
  • Optional excursions.
  • Travel Insurance.

Holiday Information

Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.

NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen

View Holiday Information Sheet

Tour Codes

17600

Itinerary & Travel

Itinerary Details

Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to Sicily

Accommodation

Independent arrival at the Hotel Federico II in Castiglione di Sicilia. Check in is available from 3pm. Meet your Classic Tour Leader at 7pm in the hotel reception. 

Day 2 to 3

Walking under Mount Etna

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

During your time in Sicily, you will explore the area through a variety of exciting walks which may include one of more of the following examples. Please bear in mind that the order of the days may be amended, or walks substituted, due to weather conditions, attraction opening times, public transport timetables or changes beyond our control.

  • Time

    4 hours

  • Distance

    5.5 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    380m

Mount Etna: Today marks the day for an unforgettable walk around the base of Monte Nero on the slopes of the ever-active Mount Etna. Given its volcanic nature, the plan must always factor in its dynamic character.

Begin by following the path around the base of the dormant side crater known as Monte Nero, which means black mountain, where you can expand your understanding of volcanology while relishing panoramic vistas.

Keep in mind that your trek will take you to higher altitudes, and those visiting in the spring might encounter snow, so it's essential to come well-prepared with waterproof and warm layers, gloves and a hat, especially since the upper slopes can be quite chilly year-round. It promises to be a memorable day, enriched by the spectacular mountain panoramas.

  • Time

    4.5 hours

  • Distance

    8.8 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    425/675m

Monte Pizzo Ridge: Enjoy a glorious but challenging ridge walk starting from Grava, on mostly good tracks and paths with panoramic views of Mount Etna. Anticipate magnificent vistas of Mount Etna, extended stretches along both grassy and rocky ridges.

The descent in this route can be challenging.

Day 4

Final day

Independent departure from the hotel after breakfast. Check out is by 10:30am.

Departure dates for your selected tour

26th Sep 2025 - 29th Sep 2025 (3 Nights)

Accommodation

Accommodation information

Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.

Hotel Federico II

Castiglione di Sicilia is a small Sicilian town nestled in a valley between Etna and the Alcantara Park. Its a picturesque town with small houses and historical buildings perched upon a hill on the north side of Etna. Follow its winding streets and you'll discover Italian architecture and a central square made from lava stone. Its castles and churches make for an impressive backdrop against Etna. The town is filled with restaurants, cafes, shops, and supermarkets. There are also banks, ATMs, a post office, tourist office and bus/train stations in the town.

We stay in the small family owned Hotel Federico II located in the heart of the town. This recently renovated little and intimate hotel is set in a 14th century building. It's simple and chosen for its perfect location for our walking itinerary. It allows us to explore remote walking paths and the hotels back drop is the magnificent Mount Etna.

We stay in double and twin bedded rooms. Single rooms are usually double for sole use. Hotel rooms are either in the main building, the Hotel Federico II, or the small building next door called Le Vie del Borgo next door. Both hotels are run by the same family. All rooms are comfortable and minimalistic. Facilities include

  • Ensuite with shower
  • Hairdryer
  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Minibar
  • TV
  • Telephone
  • Safe
  • WIFI

There are no tea/coffee making facilities in rooms.

Trip Information

All the details you need

Holiday Grade

Your holiday will include challenging hikes through beautiful scenery set against the stunning back drop of Mount Etna. Expect to walk on mountain paths, farm tracks, through ancient villages and lovely rural scenery. 

At first glance, some of the walks might appear to be easier than expected at grade 6. However, all walks are on rough and broken paths that can be overgrown at time, so please be prepared with clothing that covers your arms and legs. The routes include very long and rough descents, with unstable terrain. Some of the walks do not include a lot of shade, and heat and humidity in Sicily also makes the walks more challenging. 

Walks will be full days with ascents and descents of 250-905. You will be walking between 4-9 miles a day. The maximum altitude reached on this holiday is 2060 on Monte Nero.

Walks & Excursions

Local Transport Costs

In the holiday cost, we have included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity programme for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.

Optional Excursions

At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.

Spending Money

Holiday Budgeting

As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.

Currency in Italy

The currency in Italy is the Euro.

Tipping

In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.

Tour Leaders & Local Guides

Tour Leaders

Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations.  Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.

Leader's Evening Briefing

Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.

Your Travel Details

Flights and airport transfers are not included on this holiday. 

The nearest airport is at Catania Airport, a 1 hour 30 minute drive from Castiglione di Sicilia. The Hotel Federico II may be able to offer you airport transfers at an additional cost, please contact them directly. 

Travel by bus and train from Catania Airport: Take the 5390 or 5396 train from Catania Airport to Fiumefreddo Sicilia, then take a taxi to the hotel (20 minutes, approximately 35-45 euros). Or take the ET07 bus from Catania airport to Giardini Naxos bus station, then take a taxi to the hotel (30 minutes, approximately 45-55 euros).

The hotel car park is outside the hotel and you can park your car free of charge for the duration of your holiday. 

An excellent website to assist in your travel plans is Rome2Rio.

During the weekend you'll travel on foot, by private transport and by public bus. 

Booking Your Own Travel Arrangements

Before finalising any flight or transfer arrangements, especially if you're doing so more than 12 weeks before your break, please check with us first to ensure your holiday has been cleared to operate. If you plan to join your holiday at the hotel, kindly inform us of your travel plans least 12 weeks before departure.

Unless you have arranged private transfers with us, it is understood that you will join and leave the holiday at your hotel.

Hotel Transfers

When you book a flight or rail inclusive holiday, transfers between the airport/station and hotel and back are included. On some holidays, where we offer various flight options, the transfer vehicle may wait for all flights to land before transferring to the hotel.  

Luggage Allowance & Travel Documents

If you have booked your flights through us, rest assured that details of your travel arrangements and baggage allowance will be clearly outlined in your 'Final Travel Documents'. These will be sent to you approximately 10 days before your departure, ensuring you have all the necessary information for a smooth and well-prepared journey.

Personal Details Check

To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.

Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.

You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.

Passports and Visas

European Passport Advice

If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must meet the Schengen area rules.

Your passport must meet 2 requirements. It must be:

  • less than 10 years old on the day you enter (check the ‘date of issue’)
  • valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

For some Schengen countries your passport may need to be less than 10 years old during your whole visit, and the 3 months at the end of your visit may need to be within 10 years of your passport’s issue date.

Check both the issue date and the expiry date in your passport. If you renewed your passport early, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. This could affect the requirement for your passport to be less than 10 years old.

Non British Passport holders should consult the host country’s embassy for applicable passport and visa entry requirements.

Meals

Breakfast are included in the holiday and are taken in the hotel’s restaurant. Breakfast is a continental buffet style with a selection such as cereal, cold meats, tomatoes, cheeses, fruits, rolls and jams. 

Dinners are not included. The hotel has a restaurant, the Sine Tempore, featuring traditional Sicilian cuisine, and dishes are usually created using locally sourced fresh ingredients. During the summer, the outdoor garden and courtyard area is opened for dinner too. There are also some small local restaurants in Castiglione di Sicilia. 

Lunches are not included.

Footwear & Kit List

Footwear

Lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good, moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support are strongly recommended and may be essential for some walks.

General Kit List

Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.

If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:

  • Waterproof jacket (Goretex or similar) and trousers
  • Lightweight quick-drying trousers
  • Walking T-shirt/shirts
  • Walking socks
  • Fleece or jumper
  • Sun hat, sunglasses, lip salve and sun block
  • Warm hat and gloves (if appropriate)
  • Swimwear & towel (if appropriate)
  • Day sack (this should be able to carry all you would need for the day's activity)
  • Day sack liner
  • Water bottle - at least 1 litre capacity (more than 1 bottle may be required)
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Lunchbox
  • Walking poles (should you find them useful)
  • Sit mat

This list is not exhaustive, and every walker is different and may have their own preference.

Travel Documents Checklist

Documents and Information to take with you:

  • Passport (make sure it's yours and valid)
  • Your travel tickets or e-ticket itinerary
  • Any visa or electronic travel authorisation (if required)
  • Holiday money
  • Credit or debit cards (and separate details of who to call if lost)
  • Car parking ticket and car park directions (if prebooked)
  • Coach or rail travel tickets (if prebooked)
  • Your holiday Booking Confirmation document
  • Your travel insurance details
  • Alternative form of identification (such as a driving licence)
  • Photocopy of the personal details' pages of your passport
  • A valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if relevant
  • Details of any medical condition or allergy your holiday leader should know about

Electricity in Italy

Electricity in Italy is supplied at 220 Volts. If you wish to use electrical equipment you will need a European two pin adaptor with round pins. More information can be found at https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/

Maps, Guidebooks & Other Information

Maps, Guidebooks & More

Many local libraries stock a selection of travel guides and books which may offer you more information. Apart from any books available in local libraries, the internet is now an excellent resource for information about holidays in Sicily. You may find the below websites, books and programmes useful. 

Maps of the areas we visit (1:200 000 scale) are available locally and at specialist map shops in the UK. 

Visit Sicily 

In literature and film Sicily is closely associated with The Godfather books and films. Various locations in the area of Francavilla were used in the filming of the original Godfather film.

Lonely Planet Sicily Travel Guide. 

The Rough Guide to Sicily.

Sicily: The Wonder of the Mediterranean on BBC2 player. Follow Michael Scott on his historical journey through Sicily.

Gino D'Acampo visits Sicily on Gino's Italian Escapes, available on ITV player.  

The Map Shop

If you cannot find the maps or books locally, we recommend:

The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England

Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk

If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.

Weather

You may wish to look at the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination; BBC weather or MyWeather2. 

Staying Healthy On Holiday

Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Health Advice for Italy

No compulsory immunisations are required for visits to Italy.

You should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended in the UK. 

You may wish to consider immunisations against Tetanus and Tick-borne Encephalitis.

Further Travel Advice

For further advice please visit:

You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.

Travel Insurance

It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

If you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you are unable to demonstrate that you are insured.

If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland, please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.

EHIC & GHIC Cards

Starting January 1st, 2021, you, as a UK traveller, can continue using your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) throughout its valid five-year period, granting you access to medical assistance during your holiday until its expiry date. Be aware, though, that this coverage will no longer extend to Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. In case you don't have a valid EHIC, you can apply for a new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which will replace the EHIC as it gets phased out.

It's essential to emphasize that the EHIC/GHIC, while valuable, should not be regarded as a substitute for comprehensive medical or travel insurance. For your peace of mind and comprehensive coverage, considering additional insurance is highly recommended.

For more information, please visit www.nhs.uk/ehic

Personal Safety

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.

When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!

Cultural Awareness

Italian Laws & Customs

In some Italian towns and cities, you may be fined for dropping litter and in some towns or cities it’s an offence to sit on monument steps or to eat and drink in the immediate vicinity of main churches, historic monuments and public buildings. It’s also an offence to enter or bathe in public fountains.

In May 2019, the Municipality of Capri introduced a law forbidding the use of any disposable plastic objects such as bags, cutlery, plates, cups, food packaging, trays, straws on the island of Capri. Violations can incur a fine of up to 500 euros.

Illegal traders operate on the streets of all major Italian cities, particularly tourist cities like Florence, Venice and Rome. Don’t buy from illegal street traders. You could be stopped by the local police and fined.

It is illegal to remove sand, shells or pebbles from coastal areas in Italy. Doing so may result in heavy fines. It’s also forbidden to collect various species of flowers, plants and herbs from mountain and wooded areas. For more information, check with the regional authorities of the area you’re visiting.

Responsible Travel

We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust

Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust is passionate about making the outdoors more accessible for more people from all communities. We grant funds to many organisations and have recently partnered with Mind Over Mountains, Adaptive Grand Slam, and other groups to create an enduring impact on people’s lives and to support them to enjoy the outdoors. In addition, the Trust makes many small grants to local organisations such as Ramblers Groups, Walkers are Welcome, My kind of Books and recently provided a small grant, via his scouting group, to enable a young man whose family had fallen on hard times to complete his DofE Gold award.

Patron of the Trust is the renowned explorer, Mark Wood. Over 20 years Mark has undertaken expeditions to some of the most remote parts of our planet. Our shared values make for an exciting partnership, and we believe that by standing shoulder to shoulder we can encourage people from all communities to enjoy being active outdoors in whatever way suits them best.

For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.

Staying In Touch

Mobile Phones

Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilise this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.

Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en-route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last minute updates concerning your travel plans.

In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or try to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimise the use of mobile devices. Your co-operation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.

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Useful Information

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Italy

  • Capital

    Rome

  • Currency

    Euro

  • Language

    Italian

  • Time Difference

    UTC +02:00

  • Flight duration

    2.5hrs from UK

Visas and Passports

No Visa Required

Average weather

  • January

    6°C

    Avg. Rain: 67mm

  • February

    7°C

    Avg. Rain: 62mm

  • March

    9°C

    Avg. Rain: 63mm

  • April

    12°C

    Avg. Rain: 61mm

  • May

    16°C

    Avg. Rain: 56mm

  • June

    20°C

    Avg. Rain: 47mm

  • July

    22°C

    Avg. Rain: 35mm

  • August

    22°C

    Avg. Rain: 48mm

  • September

    20°C

    Avg. Rain: 64mm

  • October

    15°C

    Avg. Rain: 89mm

  • November

    10°C

    Avg. Rain: 96mm

  • December

    7°C

    Avg. Rain: 82mm

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