Journey report by BestHike editor Rick McCharles
I arrived Sicily from close by Malta.
PLAN was to climb Mount Etna, the tallest lively volcano in Europe, and probably the most lively on the planet, at present 3,403 m (11,165 ft) excessive.
I figured it will be a simple day journey after Kilimanjaro.
Ought to have accomplished some analysis. Summit trekking peak excursions of Etna typically function from April by means of November, with the principle climbing season beginning round Could.
I arrived late March. There was a LOT of snow, even round 1900m. It may be 10–15°C cooler than in Catania. Many vacationers arrive underdressed. And with footwear higher for the seaside than snow. 😀
Volcanic rock is considerably sharp. It may possibly reduce flip-flops. I wore method sneakers and was OK on the snow and ice. Coming from Canada, this was regular for me. I didn’t see anybody utilizing any sort of ice cleats.
They ski and snowshoe right here. There are 2 small ski resorts.
I’d flown into the jumping-off level for Etna, town of Catania.
There are dozens of choices for day climbing Etna, from dozens of firms. It’s complicated.
My hostel advisable a day journey by bus provided by Vacationer Service for €30, discounted from a posted €35 common worth. Since their workplace was proper subsequent door to my lodging, I signed up.
It’s about 2 hours (with visitors) to Etna from town. On the best way up, we stopped to see a current instance of eruption harm. Yikes. This mountain has killed lots of people over the centuries.
Bus delivered us to Rifugio Sapienza at round 1900m on the extra fashionable south aspect of the mountain. A little bit of a vacationer lure. The north trailhead (Piano Provenzana) is best for affords wilder climbing trails and fewer crowds.
From Sapienza you possibly can take a cable automobile as much as 2500m. It’s costly at €54 return once I was there. And you may rent a 4×4 contraption to pay much more. Guides are required at greater elevations.
I opted to remain near the Rifugio Sapienza trailhead, saving my cash for a summit climb a while in future.
There’s a further €5entry price for the Silvestri Craters on the south aspect. Properly value it. The spotlight for me.
It’s solely about 1km to circumambulate all 5 craters — however they’re scenic.
With an hour left earlier than my bus departed, I climbed essentially the most conspicuous cone.
Had the highest to myself for about 20 minutes.
Driving your individual automobile to Rifugio Sapienza is an effective choice. And there’s a public bus €6.60 return — however it leaves Catania very early. Returns very late. I assume that service runs primarily for workers.
associated – Visiting Mount Etna | All the pieces You Want To Know Earlier than the Hike
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