This exciting one-weeker takes in north-east Sicily and the remote Aeolian Islands. We plan to climb three active volcanoes: Vulcano (500m), Stromboli (924m) and Mount Etna (3323m) - the highest in Europe. Between climbs, we'll relax and enjoy the lively local scene.

Ascent of Mount Etna
Spending our first few days on the Sicilian mainland, on the northern slopes of Etna, we tackle this massif with 4WD vehicles and on foot. Exploring the rumbling craters and lava fields of this active volcano is an extraordinary experience; our summit traverse is quite a challenge, and subject to current volcanic activity and local conditions. On a clear day, the vistas extend across all of Sicily and beyond.

Fiery Stromboli
Sailing past the jagged cliffs of Panarea island, the mysterious cone of Stromboli looms in front of us. The island's active crater towers above the black volcanic beaches and tiny port. We zigzag up a broken path (3-4hrs) through the dense vegetation of the lower slopes, to peer into the crater. Stromboli is one of the world's most active volcanoes - it constantly rumbles and belches out fumes. Seeing the glow of incandescent lava at night is an experience that defies imagination!

Lipari & Vulcano
We make for the Aeolian island of Lipari. For our first climb we cross to Vulcano, famed for its rugged peaks which rise directly from the sea. We climb a steep path to the crater rim, enjoying the spectacular views of the other islands. Local hot sea-springs make for some great bathing! Finally we head back to the Sicilian mainland for a final night next to the Ionian Sea.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Join Catania; drive Sant' Alfio, on slopes on Mount Etna; afternoon walk over lava flows. 2 4WD to 2900m; walk to Etna craters; descend via Torre del Philosofo and Valle del Bove (5-7hrs). 3 Etna North: minibus to 1900m; walk through pine forests; visit 2002 eruption site and lava flows (5-6hrs). 4 Hydrofoil Stromboli; PM ascent on foot to the crater rim (total 5-7hrs). 5 Ferry Lipari; optional tour island and thermal baths. 6 Lipari; boat to Vulcano island; walk up to crater (1hr); visit beach and hot sea springs. 7 Hydrofoil to Milazzo; drive to Rocca Novara and Gola Alcantara for walks; continue to Giadini Naxos via Taormina. 8 Visit Taormina AM; drive Catania airport where tour ends.

Accommodation: 7nts hotel; 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches & 3 dinners included.
Transport: Minibus/Ferry/Hydrofoil/4WD/ On foot.
Comment: A short, adventurous tour with several days walking on some of Sicily's many volcanoes. Walking is graded as moderate to strenuous. Although some of the ascents are steep and quite demanding, the panoramic views and volcanic scenery are simply stunning.
Group: Approx. 12 to 16.
Staff: Explore Tour Leader, plus driver and support crew.
Trip Reference: SV