Old Sicily Discovery and Etna Wine Tasting Tour From Taormina

Explore the enchanting remnants of Old Sicily on this captivating day tour from Taormina. Explore the natural wonder of the Alcantara Gorges, stroll through the medieval charm of Randazzo, and witness the majestic presence of Mount Etna. Along the way, savor a delightful wine tasting experience that showcases the region’s renowned vintages. With an air-conditioned vehicle and a multilingual guide at your side, you’ll uncover the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes that have captivated visitors for centuries. Whether you’re a history buff or a nature enthusiast, this tour promises to leave you with lasting memories of Sicily’s captivating allure.

Key Points

• A day tour from Taormina exploring the Alcantara Gorges, the historic town of Randazzo, and the iconic Mount Etna volcano.
• Opportunity to hike the upper craters of Mount Etna with a licensed Alpine guide.
• Includes visits to natural wonders, cultural landmarks, wine tasting, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
• Tour is suitable for most travelers but not wheelchair accessible, with a maximum group size of 49 people.
• Feedback indicates mixed experiences due to weather conditions, but overall positive reviews for the tour’s organization and guide services.

Tour Overview

On this day trip from Taormina, travelers will explore the natural wonders of Sicily’s Alcantara Gorges, the historic Medieval town of Randazzo, and the foothills of Mount Etna.

The tour includes visits to the volcanic canyons and rock pools of Alcantara Gorges, as well as the Basilica di Santa Maria in Randazzo, featuring lava rock columns and 18th-century paintings.

Travelers can also opt to hike Mount Etna’s upper craters with an Alpine guide.

The tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle, a professional multilingual guide, wine tasting, and entrance fees, ensuring a comfortable and comprehensive experience of Sicily’s natural and cultural treasures.

Itinerary Highlights

The Alcantara Gorges invite visitors to explore canyons, caves, rock pools, and waterfalls formed by ancient lava flows. An admission fee is required to access this natural wonder.

Next, the tour takes you to the medieval town of Randazzo, where you can:

1. Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria, featuring lava rock columns and 18th-century paintings.
2. Explore the Sunday market, if your tour falls on that day.
3. Enjoy free time for lunch.

The final highlight is Mount Etna, where you’ll travel to the north refuge at 6,234 feet (1,900 meters).

You can hike freely or upgrade to ascend the upper craters with licensed guides.

Alcantara Gorges

Visitors often marvel at the Alcantara Gorges, a natural wonder formed by ancient lava flows. The striking canyons, caves, and rock pools invite exploration.

Guests can wander through the verdant gorges, admiring the volcanic geology and refreshing natural pools. The admission fee provides access to this stunning natural attraction.

Visitors often enjoy cooling off in the crystalline waters or capturing the picturesque scenery.

The Alcantara Gorges offer a unique opportunity to witness the dramatic impact of volcanic activity on the landscape, creating a dramatic and captivating destination within this Sicilian tour.

Randazzo

The medieval town of Randazzo beckons visitors with its centuries-old Basilica di Santa Maria, featuring lava rock columns and 18th-century paintings.

Travelers have the opportunity to explore this charming locale, including:

1. Admiring the architectural marvel of the Basilica di Santa Maria, a testament to Randazzo’s rich history.
2. Browsing the bustling Sunday market, if the tour falls on the right day, for a glimpse of local life and traditional crafts.
3. Enjoying a leisurely lunch, taking in the town’s quaint ambiance and medieval character.

After exploring Randazzo, the tour continues its journey, heading towards the iconic Mount Etna and its breathtaking volcanic landscapes.

Mount Etna

After exploring the charming town of Randazzo, the tour continues its journey towards the iconic Mount Etna and its breathtaking volcanic landscapes.

Travelers will travel to the north refuge at an elevation of 6,234 feet (1,900 meters), where they’ll have free time to hike and take in the dramatic vistas.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, there’s an optional upgrade to ascend to the upper craters, accompanied by licensed Alpine guides.

Regardless of the route chosen, visitors are sure to be awestruck by the raw power and natural beauty of this renowned active volcano, a true highlight of the Sicilian landscape.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour begins at the Terminal Interbus in Taormina, located on Via Luigi Pirandello in the town of Taormina, Italy.

Pickup is available along the coast at Taormina by the sea, Letojanni, and Giardini Naxos. The departure time is set at 8:30 am.

The meeting and pickup process offers:

1. A centralized starting point at the Terminal Interbus in Taormina.
2. Convenient pickup options along the coastal towns.
3. A punctual 8:30 am departure to ensure a timely start to the day’s adventure.

This streamlined approach ensures a smooth and efficient start to the Old Sicily Discovery and Etna Wine Tasting Tour.

Additional Information

Maximum of 49 travelers per tour ensure an intimate group experience.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller-friendly.

You can cancel your booking for a full refund up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

The tour operates rain or shine, so be prepared for the weather.

Overall, reviewers rate the tour 4.1 out of 5 based on 16 reviews.

Some mentioned mixed experiences due to weather conditions affecting visibility and activities, while others praised the guide’s service and organization.

Suggestions include longer stays in Randazzo and clearer communication on the itinerary.

Travelers also recommend dressing warmly for the Mount Etna portion due to temperature variations.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Overall, reviewers rate the tour 4.1 out of 5 based on 16 reviews.

While some experienced mixed results due to weather conditions affecting visibility and activities, the general consensus is positive.

The tour guide’s service and organization received praise, though suggestions were made for:

1. Longer stays in Randazzo.
2. Clearer communication on itinerary specifics.
3. Recommendations to dress warmly for Mount Etna due to temperature variations.

Despite these minor suggestions, the tour appears to offer a well-rounded Sicilian adventure, showcasing the region’s natural wonders and cultural attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Lunch Is Included in the Tour?

The tour includes free time for lunch in Randazzo, but a specific lunch is not provided. Travelers are free to explore the town and find their own dining options during the tour’s scheduled stop.

Is There an Option to Book Private Transportation?

There is no mention of a private transportation option in the tour details provided. The tour includes air-conditioned vehicle transportation, but participants must meet at the designated meeting point or be picked up along the coast.

Can Minors Participate in the Mount Etna Hike?

Minors can participate in the Mount Etna hike, but they must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The hike to the upper craters requires an optional upgrade and is led by licensed Alpine guides.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Exploring Randazzo?

The tour provides free time in Randazzo for visitors to explore, with an opportunity to visit the Sunday market if the tour falls on that day. However, the exact duration of the Randazzo stop is not specified.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Accommodate Special Requests?

The tour can be customized to accommodate special requests, though the extent of customization may be limited. Guests should inquire with the tour operator about any specific needs or preferences they have for the itinerary.

Sum Up

This Sicilian adventure offers a unique opportunity to explore the region’s natural wonders and historic charm. From the dramatic Alcantara Gorges to the medieval town of Randazzo and the iconic Mount Etna, this tour provides a comprehensive glimpse into the enchanting "Old Sicily." With a wine tasting experience and knowledgeable guides, visitors can enjoy the island’s rich culture and stunning landscapes.