Mount Etna: trek with vintage car, tasting sicilian produtcs

Planning a trip to Sicily often means encountering its fiery giant, Mount Etna. While countless tours promise adventure, few deliver the mix of nostalgia, scenic beauty, and local flavors quite like Don Mariano’s Etna Tour. This experience offers a blend of vintage charm, active volcanic landscapes, and genuine Sicilian hospitality—a package that’s hard to beat.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it combines adventure with comfort. Riding in a vintage car or a rugged Fiat Panda Cross 4X4 adds a nostalgic touch that makes the journey memorable. Pair that with the chance to trek through birch forests and see volcanic craters up close, and you’ve got a truly immersive day. Just a heads-up: at around four hours, it’s a fairly compact tour, so if you’re after a full-day expedition, you might want to consider other options. Still, for those seeking a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and fun, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This experience is especially great for families—kids won’t miss out on the excitement of the volcanic landscapes—and for anyone who appreciates local food and drink. If you’re looking for a tour that’s personable, informative, and visually stunning, Don Mariano’s offering is definitely worth considering.

Key Points

• Authentic Vintage Experience: Travel in a charming vintage car or a Fiat Panda Cross 4X4, adding a nostalgic touch to your volcano adventure.
• Scenic Trekking: Enjoy a 40-minute trek through birch forests, leading you to spectacular views of Etna’s lateral craters.
• Breathtaking Views: From the craters, expect sweeping vistas of Taormina, the Aeolian Islands, and Calabria—ideal for photography and awe.
• Local Flavors: Savor Sicilian products and wines produced directly by Don Mariano, making the tasting truly authentic.
• Family-Friendly: With safety measures and manageable altitude (up to around 1800 meters), this tour suits travelers of all ages.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Transfer

The tour kicks off from Via Camillo Benso Conte di Cavour, 45—just a convenient spot in Catania. The included transfer, which lasts about 30 minutes, sets the tone for a hassle-free start. We liked the smooth organization, with the pick-up and drop-off details clearly communicated. This initial leg gets you settled comfortably before the adventure begins, and it’s a good time to get a quick overview of the day ahead.

Mount Etna in Miniature & Volcano History

The first stop at “Etna in Miniature” is a clever introduction—think of it as a scaled-down version of Etna that quickly captures the volcano’s essential features. It’s an engaging way to familiarize yourself with the volcano’s history and structure before heading into the more active zones. The attention to detail here reflects a sincere passion for sharing Sicily’s natural marvels.

Exploring the 2002 Eruption and Past Destruction

Continuing towards the site of the October 2002 eruption, you’ll see the remnants of the historic ski resort of Piano Provenzana. This site illustrates Etna’s fiery temperament and constant change—a reminder that this volcano isn’t just a static feature but a living, breathing entity. Many reviews mention how this part of the tour reveals the power of nature and its ability to reshape landscapes, which leaves a lasting impression.

Trekking Through Birch Forests and Craters

The highlight for many is the 40-minute trek through birch woods to the lateral craters of Bottoniera Sartorius. The walking is manageable, even for those less inclined to long hikes, and the vistas from the crater rims are simply stunning. Expect to see volcanic formations, ash deposits, and the rugged beauty of Etna’s flank. The guides are knowledgeable and eager to share insights, which enriches the experience. As one reviewer said, “every detail was taken care of with passion, stories, and history,” making the trek both educational and fun.

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Refreshments and Tastings

Post-trek, the tour includes a stop where you get to taste Sicilian products paired with a glass of Etna white wine produced by Don Mariano himself. The wine tasting is a genuine highlight—many travelers appreciated how the host’s personal touch made the experience much more authentic. Later, you’ll also enjoy a tasting of Sicilian culinary delights accompanied by Etna red wine, which is just as memorable. These tastings add flavor to the day, quite literally, and offer a chance to relax and soak in the local atmosphere.

Final Stop and Return

After enjoying the tastings, you’ll head back to your original starting point, completing a well-rounded four-hour adventure. The final transfer is smooth, and the small group size ensures a personalized, friendly environment—many reviews praise Don Mariano’s attentiveness and enthusiasm.

The charm of Don Mariano’s Etna Tour lies in its balance—combining scenic exploration, cultural insights, and authentic Sicilian flavors at an accessible price point. At $84.96 per person, the experience offers great value when you consider the personalized attention, the quality of the tastings, and the unforgettable views.

It’s especially suitable for families because of its manageable pace and safety measures, as well as for those who want a more intimate, less commercialized experience of Mount Etna. Travelers who appreciate history, geology, landscape photography, or local food will find plenty to love here. The flexible start times and small group sizes make it a reliable choice for those seeking a relaxed but enriching day.

Don Mariano’s Mount Etna tour stands out as a friendly, engaging way to discover Sicily’s most iconic volcano. The vintage car ride adds a nostalgic flair that makes the journey memorable, and the combination of trekking, breathtaking views, and local tastings offers a well-rounded experience. It’s a tour that’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to see Etna with a knowledgeable guide who genuinely cares.

The authentic flavors, stunning landscapes, and personal touches—like Don Mariano’s passion and attention to detail—make this a worthwhile choice for those who want more than just a quick glance at the volcano. It’s a chance to connect with Sicily’s natural beauty and culinary traditions in a relaxed, friendly setting.

If you’re after a taste of Sicily’s volcanic wonder and local hospitality, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary.

Is the tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, the tour is designed to be family-friendly, with manageable trekking and safety measures in place.

What is the transportation like?
You’ll travel in an elegant vintage car or a Fiat Panda Cross 4X4, both suitable for volcanic trails and adding a nostalgic charm to the experience.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about four hours, including transfers, sightseeing, trekking, and tastings.

Are the tastings included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes Sicilian product tastings and wines produced by Don Mariano, giving an authentic flavor of the region.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, and the tour provides jackets, caps, and sticks if needed.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What language are guides available in?
Guides speak Italian, French, and English, accommodating a wide range of travelers.

Is the tour accessible to people with mobility issues?
While the tour involves walking and trekking at altitude, the manageable pace and short duration make it suitable for most people in good health.

How many people are in each group?
The small group size is limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

This tour is a fantastic way to experience Mount Etna beyond the typical crowds, combining scenic beauty, cultural richness, and local flavors—all wrapped in a nostalgic vintage package that makes the journey as memorable as the destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: