Drive to the Mount Etna area near Catania. Ascend the volcano, partially off-road, over cold lava streams and through verdant forests. With your local guide, hike to Mount Fontana and the Bove Valley, an ancient caldera, and visit a lava cave. Along the way learn about the origins of Mount Etna and the extreme fertility (plant & animal) its eruptions have engendered. Visit cold lava streams at Piano Provenzana, a ski area with views over the Ionian Sea. Proceed to a noted mountain winery where you’ll visit the vineyards and cellars, tasting selected wines accompanied by local products. Afterwards enjoy a light multi-course lunch with one selected wine.
Note: Recommended equipment: hiking/walking shoes, clothing layers to suit the weather and the altitude, bottled water