From Cefalù : Etna & Taormina - full day

Itinerary. After pickup from select Cefalu hotels or a nearby location by coach, relax on the scenic journey inland toward towering Mt Etna, the tallest active volcano in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site that dominates the Sicilian landscape During your ascent, admire Mt Etna’s varied landscapes including citrus orchards, olive groves, vineyards, fruit trees and aromatic plants growing all over the slopes. Soon you’ll be met with a strange lunar landscape created by the lava — a far cry from the garden-like terrain below. Hop out at the base station at 6,562 feet (2,000 meters) with your guide, and enjoy time to walk around, take in the views and visit the Silvestri Craters, two small extinct craters. Eager to reach the summit? Ride a cable car to a height of 8,202 feet (2,500 meters), or continue traveling the remaining distance by 4x4 jeep, stopping at an astounding 9,843 feet (3,000 meters) — both are at your own expense. Follow your guide around the craters at Mt Etna’s summit, peering into hornitos (small openings that release lava), and learning about volcanic activity in Sicily. At the end of your walk, return to the base station to meet the rest of your group. After free time for lunch in town (own expense), head to nearby Taormina, inarguably one of Sicily’s most beautiful cities. Perched on the side of a mountain, this charming town has been Sicily’s most popular summer destination since the 1800s. Enjoy free time to walk along the main drag, Corso Umberto, lined with high-end designer shops, or saunter along the ancient cobblestone streets surrounding Taormina Old Town. If you wish, visit the Ancient Theatre of Taormina, the city’s most remarkable ancient monument and one of the most revered ruins in Sicily. Learn about the history of this preserved site, built by the Greeks in the 7th century BC, and soak up panoramic views over the Bay of Naxos and Mt Etna. Meet back with your guide at the prearranged time and take the coastal road back to Cefalu, stopping for a photo of the Strait of Messina. Your tour concludes with a drop-off back at the original start point. PICK UP TIMES - CEFALU AREA 06:00 (San Salvatore Church - Via Roma , 90) 06:05 (Railway station) – Cefalù Hotels 06:15 Hotel Kalura + Hotel Le Calette (Corner National Road SS113) 06:25 Hotel Santa Lucia (Eni Petrol Station SS113 Cefalù) 06:30 Residence Fontana Barone (Mazzaforno) 06:40 Hotel Costa verde ( outside the reception) 06:50 Petrol Station Q8 ( SS 113 Campofelice) 06:55 Hotel Acacia (outside the main gate) 06:55 Hotel Dolce Estate (outside the main gate) 06:55 Hotel Fiesta Athenee palace (outside the main gate) 06:55 Hotel Garden Beach (outside the main gate)  

Etna & Taormina