Tour Etna & Wine Tasting

Exploring Mount Etna with Wine Tasting: An Honest Review of the Catania Experience

If you’re planning a trip to Sicily, a tour combining the volcano’s dramatic landscape with a taste of local wines might just sound perfect. This Etna & Wine Tasting tour, offered by MrExcursions, has earned a solid 5-star rating from hundreds of travelers, and for good reason. It promises a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural insights, and a delicious meal—all in one day.

What really catches our eye are the personalized small-group vibe and the opportunity to explore both the natural wonder of Mount Etna and the flavors of Sicilian wine. Plus, the reviews highlight friendly, knowledgeable guides and a well-paced itinerary. One thing to keep in mind is that some parts involve hiking and walking on uneven terrain, so be prepared for that if you’re not a regular hiker.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who want an active day with a mix of nature and food. It’s also a good choice if you’re looking for a more intimate experience than a large bus tour offers. Travelers with a moderate level of fitness will find it rewarding, especially because of the opportunity to walk craters and explore lava tunnels. Families with older children might enjoy it, but younger kids should be aware of the walking involved.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Small group size means more personal attention and a relaxed pace.
• Active exploration includes crater walks and lava tunnel visits.
• Wine tasting and lunch at Gambino Winery offers local flavors with scenic views.
• The itinerary balances driving and hiking for a varied experience.
• Tour is well-reviewed for knowledgeable guides and great storytelling.
• Price point offers good value considering the activities, lunch, and tastings.

Discovering Mount Etna: A Journey Into Sicily’s Volcano

We love the way this tour blends the power of nature with the pleasures of local cuisine. It’s a day that feels curated for those who enjoy a little adventure but also want to relax and savor Sicily’s flavors. And honestly, the reviews reflect that same enthusiasm, with many calling it an “amazing,” “fantastic,” and “pristine” experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day kicks off with a pickup at your accommodation, likely somewhere between Taormina and nearby towns. It’s a breeze to get started, especially if you prefer a door-to-door experience rather than navigating public transport. The tour begins at around 9:00 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the day without rushing.

Stop 1: Taormina (about 1 hour)

The pick-up point is flexible, and the first stop is Taormina—a charming town with stunning views of the coast. While this initial part is mainly for pickup and doesn’t involve sightseeing, it’s a nice way to start with some Sicilian atmosphere.

Stop 2: Piano Provenzana (1 hour)

Next, you’ll stop at the ski resort area of Piano Provenzana to see the last side flow of Mount Etna. The scenery here is dramatic—volcanic rock, ash fields, and the stark beauty of recent lava flows. Many travelers say this is a photo-worthy spot. Plus, there are shops nearby, so if you want to pick up souvenirs or snacks, this is your chance.

Reviews mention that this area offers great vantage points, and some appreciate the opportunity to shop and stretch their legs. Keep in mind, there’s no admission fee here, but you’ll want to bring your camera.

Stop 3: Monti Sartorius

This is the highlight for many — walking to five side craters formed in 1865. The guides usually take you up close, giving insights into the volcano’s recent activity and geology. The walk takes around two hours, which, according to reviews, is not overly strenuous but does involve some uneven terrain and possibly stairs.

One reviewer, Jessica, commented, “He is fun, detailed, careful. Took care of his crew at all times,” which is reassuring if you’re worried about safety or comfort on uneven paths. The guides often provide shoes, jackets, and helmets, which makes the experience easier and safer.

Stop 4: Grotta della Neve

For a bit of underground adventure, you’ll visit a lava flow tunnel. This part is short—about 30 minutes—and involves walking inside the tunnel with a helmet and flashlight. Reviewers mention it’s a fun, almost otherworldly experience, and a good chance for photos. It’s a cool break from the more strenuous crater walk.

Stop 5: Gambino Winery

After the outdoor activities, you’ll arrive at the Gambino Winery for a two-hour visit. Here, you’ll enjoy a traditional Sicilian lunch paired with a wine tasting. The wines are described as delicious, and the meal is more substantial than you might expect, with several reviewers mentioning they left full and satisfied.

One guest noted, “Vineyard was great, lots of lovely wines and a very pleasant host who looked after us so well,” which echoes the overall positive vibe about this part of the tour. The winery’s scenic location and the opportunity to unwind over good food and drink are a major highlight.

Return to Taormina

The day wraps up with a relaxed drive back to your accommodation, usually around 4 pm or so. Many travelers say they felt the day was well-paced, with enough time at each stop to enjoy without feeling rushed.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The reviews repeatedly praise the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides, especially Alex and Andrea, who make the geology and history of Etna come alive. Their storytelling, combined with the scenic craters and lava tunnels, makes the experience much more than just a walk — it’s an educational adventure.

The wine tasting at Gambino is another favorite aspect, with many commenting on the generous pours and tasty lunch. The pairing of hiking with wine and food creates a balanced, satisfying day.

The Value in Price

At about $168 per person, this tour offers a lot for the money. You’re getting transport, professional guidance, the crater exploration, lava tunnel visit, wine tasting, and a hearty Sicilian lunch. Considering that some individual activities or private guides could cost significantly more, this experience is quite reasonable.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

Some reviews mention the walking involved — hikes up to craters and through lava tunnels are not trivial. They are described as “not overly strenuous,” but if you have mobility issues or prefer a very relaxed day, it’s worth considering. The terrain is uneven, and the altitude can add a bit of challenge.

Weather could also be a factor; the tour is weather-dependent, and poor conditions might lead to cancellations or modifications. Luckily, the provider offers full refunds or reschedules if the weather’s too bad.

Also, the group size is limited to eight travelers, which keeps the experience intimate, but it’s something to keep in mind if you prefer larger tours.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re curious about volcanoes, love scenic walks, and enjoy good wine and food, this tour hits all those marks. It’s best for active travelers who don’t mind some walking and want a guided, informative experience.

It’s especially suited for those who value small-group settings and personalized attention. If you’re traveling as a couple, solo, or with friends, you’ll find the pace and focus quite comfortable. Families with older kids interested in geology and outdoor activities might also appreciate it.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your accommodation within the designated area, making logistics easier.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, starting around 9:00 am and returning in the late afternoon.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, all activities at Mount Etna, a Sicilian lunch, and wine tastings at the winery.

Are there any physical requirements?
The activities involve walking on uneven terrain and hiking to craters, so some mobility is needed. The hikes are described as not overly strenuous, but be prepared for some effort.

Can children join this tour?
While most travelers can participate, the physical aspects might be better suited for older children or teens.

What should I wear?
Layers are recommended, as mountain weather can change quickly. Some reviews mention bringing jackets or rain gear, especially in colder months.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, but if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Etna & Wine Tasting tour from Catania offers a well-rounded, engaging day out for those eager to see Sicily’s volcanic landscape and enjoy its flavors. The mix of crater walks, lava tunnels, and a scenic winery visit creates a memorable experience that combines education, adventure, and good eating.

The focus on small groups and expert guides elevates the experience from a generic tour to something more personalized and insightful. It’s a particularly good choice if you’re energetic, love nature, and appreciate a good meal with your sightseeing.

For travelers who want a day that balances outdoor activity with cultural indulgence, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just pack your camera, some sturdy shoes, and an appetite for both adventure and delicious local wines.

Enjoy your trip to Sicily—this tour might just be the highlight of your visit.