Old Sicily discovery and Etna wine tasting tour from Taormina

Thinking about a day trip from Taormina that combines nature, history, and a touch of Sicily’s famous wines? This Old Sicily discovery and Etna wine tasting tour offers just that. It’s a well-rounded way to get a taste of what makes this part of the world so special—without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What I really like about this experience is how it blends diverse highlights into a manageable day. You get to walk through impressive natural formations at the Alcantara Gorges, explore a lava-stone church in Randazzo, and finish with a relaxed wine tasting at Etna’s volcanic slopes. Plus, the guide’s local knowledge brings each stop alive.

Of course, no tour is perfect. One thing to keep in mind is that the weather can sometimes throw a wrench in the plans—heavy rain, for example, can limit access to certain spots like the gorge or even impact your view of Mount Etna. This tour works best for travelers who are flexible and curious to see a good slice of what Sicily offers, especially if they enjoy a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural sights, and wine.

If you’re someone who appreciates convenience, a guided experience, and a variety of sights packed into one day, this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially suited to those who want a balanced overview without the hassle of self-driving or organizing multiple bookings.

Key Points

• Diverse Stops: Combines natural beauty, historical architecture, and local gastronomy.
• Insightful Guides: Expect knowledgeable, multilingual guides who bring each location to life.
• Cost-Effective: At around $69, it offers a lot of value considering the sights and experiences packed into one day.
• Weather Dependency: Experiences can be affected by weather—be prepared for rain or cloud cover.
• Group Size: Typically up to 49 travelers, so expect a reasonably comfortable group.
• Flexible Tours: You can upgrade your Mt. Etna visit to include more intensive craters exploration or stick with the standard itinerary.

Discovering Sicily’s Hidden Corners: What the Tour Involves

This full-day trip starts in the heart of Taormina, where you board an air-conditioned coach ready for a varied adventure. The first stop is the Alcantara Gorges, a stunning natural wonder carved into volcanic rock. Here, you have about 40 minutes to explore the canyons, caves, and waterfalls, though keep in mind that entry fees are not included, so you’ll need to pay on the spot if you want to go into the gorge. The gorges are particularly famous for their unique rock pools and rugged beauty—perfect for photos and a quick walk if the weather cooperates.

Many travelers, like Linda_G, have been disappointed when heavy rain hampers the gorge visit. She recounted, “It rained constantly which meant we couldn’t get down into the gorge,” but even from outside, the scenery is impressive. If rain or bad weather is forecasted, it’s worth considering how that might affect your experience here.

Next, the tour moves to Randazzo, a charming medieval town with a deep volcanic heritage. The highlight here is the Basilica di Santa Maria, built from lava stone—an example of how Sicilian artisans used local volcanic material in their architecture. Inside, you’ll find 18th-century paintings and learn about the building’s unique lava-rock columns. Visitors like Anthony B loved the stop, noting, “Etna was really good, and the food in the refuge restaurant was fabulous and really cheap.” If your visit coincides with a Sunday, you’ll also get a chance to browse the weekly market, adding a lively, authentic touch to the trip.

From Randazzo, the journey takes you into the Parco della Etna. As Europe’s tallest active volcano, Mount Etna commands respect and awe. The coach takes you up to the north refuge at around 6,234 feet (1,900 meters), where you can grab a snack (own expense) and look around. The scenery here is striking, with volcanic craters and rugged landscapes. Travelers have shared mixed experiences; some have enjoyed walking the trails, while others faced limitations due to weather or safety rules.

There is an option to upgrade your Mt. Etna experience by taking jeeps closer to the summit craters, which are around 3,000 meters high. This part is guided by licensed experts and gives a fascinating close-up view of the volcano’s activity—though, as a note, main crater visits are restricted and the guides from the Italian Alpine Club handle this part separately from the regular tour.

The final highlight is a wine tasting at a renowned Etna winery. Here, you’ll sample local wines paired with regional delicacies, adding a flavorful conclusion to your day. This part of the tour is often praised; reviews mention the “really good wine” selection and the value of tasting Sicilian wines in their native environment. It’s a relaxed, informative experience that balances the more active stops earlier in the day.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Alcantara Gorges

While the natural beauty here is undeniable, weather can be a decisive factor. As Linda B pointed out, “My trip occurred on a day of torrential rain. We mostly got soaking wet and had limited access to the gorge,” but even then, the view from outside is worth it. The gorge’s volcanic rock formations are a photographer’s dream, and if the weather is kind, you’ll love walking through the canyons and discovering the waterfalls.

Randazzo’s Lava Stone Basilica

This stop is more than just a church—it’s a testament to how volcanic materials shape Sicilian architecture. The basilica’s columns and structure are carved from lava stone, making it a unique sight. Inside, the paintings from the 18th century add a splash of color and history. Many visitors appreciate this stop for its authenticity and the chance to learn about how locals used volcanic resources creatively.

Mt. Etna’s North Refuge

The drive up to the refuge offers sweeping views of volcanic landscapes. Walking trails here vary in difficulty, so it’s worth asking your guide for recommendations based on your fitness level. Some travelers, like Anthony B, found the visit “really good,” especially when the weather is clear. For those craving more adventure, the jeep upgrade to the summit craters is a highlight, though it’s subject to volcanic activity and safety protocols.

Wine Tasting in Solicchiata

This is a leisurely, taste-focused segment. You’ll sample Etna wines—some of Italy’s finest—and enjoy local products that complement the wines perfectly. The reviews speak to good value here, with Anthony B describing the food as “fabulous and really cheap.” It’s an excellent way to unwind after the morning’s outdoor activities and learn about Sicily’s wine culture.

Practical Aspects: What to Know Before Booking

Duration and Timing:
The whole tour lasts about 7 hours, starting at 8:30 am and returning to Taormina later in the afternoon. That’s a fairly packed schedule, so it’s best for energetic travelers who want a comprehensive day without feeling rushed.

Price and Value:
At around $69, the tour offers a lot for the money. You get an air-conditioned coach, a professional guide, and multiple experiences—though you should factor in the cost of individual entries to the gorge if you wish to explore further. Overall, it’s a decent price considering the variety of sites and activities packed into one day.

Weather Considerations:
As reflected in reviews, weather can heavily influence your experience. Heavy rain can limit access or views, especially at the gorge and the volcano. If rain is forecasted, be prepared with rain gear and flexible expectations.

Group Size:
With a maximum of 49 travelers, the group isn’t tiny but also not overwhelming. This allows for some personal interaction while benefiting from the social aspect of a group tour.

Transportation:
The tour includes comfortable, air-conditioned transport, which makes uphill drives and long distances more pleasant. The coach’s convenience is a big plus, especially when covering multiple sites.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is suited for travelers who want variety—combining nature, culture, and gastronomy—in a single day. It’s especially good for those who appreciate guided tours that take the stress out of planning, and who are comfortable with group settings. If you’re not a fan of weather variability or outdoor walking in potentially challenging terrain, you might want to consider weather forecasts or alternative options.

It’s also ideal for wine lovers interested in sampling Sicilian wines in a scenic vineyard setting. If your main priority is Mount Etna’s summit activity or more in-depth volcanic exploration, you might find this tour somewhat limited, as access to the summit craters is optional and somewhat restricted.

FAQs

Is the Alcantara Gorge included in the price?
No, the entry fee to the gorge isn’t included. You’ll need to pay separately if you want to go into the gorge itself, but you can admire it from outside if the weather isn’t ideal.

How long do we stay at each stop?
You’ll have about 40 minutes at the Alcantara Gorges, 1 hour at Randazzo’s basilica, and roughly an hour at the wine tasting. The time at Mount Etna varies depending on whether you upgrade or stay at the refuge.

Can I take part in the crater tour?
Yes, if you choose to upgrade, you can go on jeeps to explore the craters at around 3,000 meters with licensed guides. Otherwise, the standard tour stays at the refuge area.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are a must—terrain can be uneven and sometimes challenging. Also, carry rain gear if the forecast isn’t clear, especially for the gorge or mountain visits.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed for families, the stops are generally suitable for most travelers in decent health. Keep in mind the walking involved and the altitude if considering for children or those with mobility issues.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
The tour runs year-round, but clear weather will make the experience much better. The views of Etna and the gorge are best on sunny days, so check the forecast before booking.

Final Thoughts

This Old Sicily discovery and Etna wine tasting tour from Taormina offers an engaging snapshot of Sicily’s natural, cultural, and gastronomic riches. It’s a good choice for curious travelers wanting a comprehensive, guided experience without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. The stops are well-chosen, showcasing volcanic formations, historic architecture, and regional wines—all within a manageable schedule.

If you’re a traveler who appreciates knowledgeable guides, scenic landscapes, and sampling local flavors, you’ll likely find this tour very rewarding. Just remember that weather can impact certain parts of the day, and it’s best to stay flexible. For those seeking more in-depth volcanic exploration or a more relaxed pace, consider other options or extending your visit to specific sites.

In the end, this trip gives you a taste of Sicily’s allure—its volcanoes, its history, and its wines—all packed into a single day that’s more than just a sightseeing drive. It’s a nice way to get a flavor of what makes this island so captivating, even if it’s just a glimpse.