
Sicilian Volcanoes Family Holiday
Walk on Mt Etna, observe volcanic activity on Stromboli and discover villages
on the Aeolian Islands
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Reviews 3 Reviews5/5
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Vacation Style Holiday Type
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Cultural
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Family
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Walking
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Activity Level Moderate
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Group Size Small Group
Lying off the coast of North-east Sicily, the volcanic Aeolian Islands are fringed with black sand beaches and dotted by picturesque fishing villages. We start the trip by walking to the crater rim in Vulcano, taking a dip in the thermal springs and kayaking around the island’s black beaches. Next, we head towards fiery Stromboli to observe unique volcanic explosions which will provide an unforgettable highlight of the trip. Returning to mainland Sicily, we explore the most recent lava flows and extinct craters on the very active Mt Etna. With fun-packed educational activities, and some free time to enjoy the beach, this holiday won’t fail to entertain and interest kids and adults alike.
* All breakfasts, 2 lunches and 3 dinners
* All accommodation
* All transport and listed activities
* Tour leader throughout
* Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
- Flights
- Single Accommodation (available on request, inquire for supplement)
Highlights
- Hike on three active volcanoes
- Kayak and swim in the cobalt Tyrrhenian Sea
- Learn about the Aeolian Islands’ geology
- Enjoy boat trips and time at the beach
- 7 nights comfortable 3-star hotels, all rooms en suite
- 6 days, kayaking, boat trips, trekking and sightseeing
- Group normally 4 to 16, plus leader. Min age 8 yrs.
- Travel by private minibus, boat and on foot
- Day 1 Start Catania.
- Day 2 Wander around Catania's famous food market before transferring to Vulcano; afternoon walk to the crater rim.
- Day 3 Discover hidden caves and secret beaches while kayaking around Vulcano's coastline; afternoon visit to thermal springs and wine tasting for adults.
- Day 4 Free day. Relax in one of the island's black beaches or take a day trip to the picturesque island of Lipari.
- Day 5 Boat trip to Stromboli; easy walk to “Sciara del Fuoco” viewpoint to observe the incandescent volcanic explosions; return to Vulcano.
- Day 6 Hydrofoil to Milazzo and transfer to Mt Etna. Stop en route in a typical Sicilian bakery to try delicious local sweets.
- Day 7 Walk on the slopes of Mt Etna, Europe's highest active volcano.
- Day 8 Transfer to Catania and end in Catania.

3-star hotels
We spend the first night in a 3-star central hotel in Catania, 4 nights in a beach hotel in Vulcano and 2 nights in a family-friendly hotel in the village of Nicolosi, on the foothills of Mt. Etna. The hotels have been chosen for their warm hospitality and their typically Sicilian character. On the October departure we won’t be staying in Vulcano but in Lipari, the biggest of the Aeolian islands which offers more facilities and services during the autumn season.
List of hotels normally used:
Gattpardo House or Hotel Valentino in Catania
Hotel Conti in Vulcano or Hotel Rocce Azzurre in Lipari (October 2018 departure only)
Hotel alle Pendici in Nicolosi
All breakfasts, 2 lunches and 3 dinners are included.
Please note that the diet in this part of Sicily is heavily dependent on fish and meat. However, vegetarian options are widely available. Breakfast is usually a continental style buffet, whilst lunch is normally a picnic or taken in local cafes. For the evening meal, you can expect it to be dominated by Mediterranean flavours like pasta with rich tomato sauces, olive oil, cheese, salami and pizza. They combine an excellent variety of seafood and meat for the perfect taste of Southern Italy.
The Activity Level for this trip is 3 (moderate). During the week’s holiday we will make day excursions from our base In Vulcano. There are 3 days of walks which will be around 3 – 4 hours. All the walks are at a moderate grade and conducted at a leisurely pace suitable for children. We’ll also take a kayaking trip around Vulcano. No previous experience is necessary but participants must be able to swim. During the week we will travel by hydrofoil and boat to Stromboli and Lipari. There is plenty of time during the holiday to enjoy the beach, the sea and also a free day for families to make their own explorations or excursions. Please be aware that Sicily can be very warm, possibly reaching 30-35 degrees in the summer. Please note that the optional summit trek to Etna and the witnessing of the eruptions on Stromboli are weather and volcanic activity dependent. The local authorities may decide (without previous notice) to close the summits and suspend all excursions. In the unfortunate event this occurs, the leader will suggest some alternative optional activities.
Family Volcanoes Sicily Trip - Warne/Fox Family
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The extra spent to go to the top of Etna is a must. At 3,400m you see how powerful and alive our planet is - it make you fell very humble to be there. The Etna Alpine guide was so passionate and informative about his 'island'.What did you think of your group leader?
Frederika (FA) was the best. She was informative, engaged with the kids brilliantly - even on our rest day - and could not have done more for us. She told us in advance what to expect the next day and couldn't have been more helpful She should gain a vote as your group leaderDo you have any advice for potential travellers?
The islands are more hot but more humid than you think. Scarves to cover your phase in the sulphur fumaroles on Volcano and Etna are helpful -e especially for the kids. The Etna Center provides you with mountain boots,gators and fleeced waterproofs all within the extra excursion cost if you are trekking to the summit. Sturdy walking trainers or trail shoes are suitable for all other hikesIs there anything else you would like to add?
Fantastic trip - my 10 year old has voted it his best holiday ever - 8 days seemed longer when you were there as we we were very active but could easily have stayed for longer.A fabulous trip
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Climbing to the top of Mt Etna was definitely the most breath-taking and inspirational experience I had on the tour. It was incredible and the volcano was more active than I'd anticipated. It was amazing.What did you think of your group leader?
Allessio was very organised and was a very lovely and caring tour leader.Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Don't miss the opportunity to climb to the top of Mt Etna. It is incredible.Is there anything else you would like to add?
This is a great tour. The accommodation is in a great location and I would have never have thought about going to the Islands of Sicily. They are really stunning and remote, which makes for a relaxing yet active break.Sicilian Volcano Family Adventure
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Laying on the sun deck of a boat at the base of Stromboli, in total darkness, watching shifting stars across the Milky Way.What did you think of your group leader?
Frederick, ex circus performer and tour guide, was and is a star. Passionate about her country of Sicily and able to communicate that passion to us. A bundle of energy, in control, thoughtful and always, not just hearing but listening to her clients. Federica not only led the tour party but was part of the tour party. It takes a rare skill to combine herding cats with handstands and card tricks. A pleasure to have been part of her world.Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
High ankle walking boots to prevent volcano sand, grit and dust getting inside your shoes.