Sicilian Volcanoes Family Holiday

This morning we visit the renowned Catania food market, where we shop around for the best local produce for lunch, which will include fresh fruit and vegetables, bread, cheese, olives and sundried tomatoes. We then take a private transfer to Milazzo (2 hours), the closest port to reach the Aeolian Islands. From here, we catch the hydrofoil boat and sail across to Vulcano (1 hour), famous for its black sand beaches and bubbling thermal springs. We settle in at our hotel, located on one of the many black sand beaches. In the afternoon, we ascend 400m to the crater rim in Vulcano, to see the steaming ‘Fumaroles’ (vents of volcanic gas). Approx. walking time 3 hours. This evening kids will take part in a fun and entertaining pizza making demonstration!**

Today we discover the hidden caves and quiet black beaches of Vulcano, whilst kayaking on the island’s coastline. After lunch, there is time to go to the famous black beach and take a dip in the bubbling thermal springs. In the evening adults can enjoy a wine tasting session.**

Today is a free day, with the opportunity to either relax on the island’s black sand beaches or visit a sulphur mud bath. You can also take a day trip to the picturesque island of Lipari, the biggest of the Aeolian islands. A gelato tasting session can be arranged, or you could perhaps visit the archaeological museum or take a stroll on the south side of Lipari for stunning views of Vulcano’s main crater.**

We take a private boat to the island of Stromboli, one of the most beautiful islands of the Mediterranean with black sand beaches and contrasting white houses. The island is famed for being home to one of only four active volcanoes in Italy and an interesting place to explore for geologists and tourists alike. Although Mother Nature doesn’t work with an exact schedule, today we should have the opportunity to witness the fiery nature of the volcano of Stromboli, which has been erupting for at least 2000 years at intervals of approximately 15 minutes. On our way to Stromboli, we have time to stop off at hidden beaches for a refreshing dip in the sea. Upon arrival, we have an easy walk to “Sciara del Fuoco” (“Stream of Fire”); a fiery channel where the lava outflows can sometimes plunge directly into the sea. Returning from the walk, we take the boat back to Vulcano. Approx. walking time 3 hours.**

Leaving Vulcano behind, we take a boat ride to Milazzo and then a private transfer to Mt Etna, Europe’s tallest and most active volcano. En route we will stop at a typical Sicilian bakery (“pasticceria”) to sample some delicious local sweets. We drive to our hotel located at the foothills of Mt Etna , in the village of Nicolosi, where we have some free time for relaxation. Time permitting, we also recommend a visit to the interesting Etna Museum, one of the most visited scientific and educational centres in Sicily. The museum offers a modern and interactive explanation of volcanology and it is equipped with screening rooms, a new 3D cinema and a playroom.**

After a short transfer (30mins) we reach Rifugio Sapienza (1900m), the start point of our walk on the slopes of Europe highest active volcano. Cinder cones and extinct craters are a feature of the desolate landscape of this upper part of Etna. From high on the mountain, there is a wonderful panorama of the eastern coast of Sicily. Depending on the weather and volcanic conditions, there is an optional climb where we can take 4×4 jeeps to 2900m and then further on foot to 3350m, escorted by a volcano or alpine guide. Price: €80 per person, payable locally in cash (price subject to change). In the afternoon we transfer back to out hotel in Nicolosi, where where we stay for our last night.**

The trip comes to an end after breakfast and a single group transfer to Catania.