Mount Etna has a strong energy. It is the largest active volcano in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its special position offers the possibility of enjoying both the mountain as well as the hillsides and the sea, the perfect vantage point for different preferences. Mount Etna is the ideal place for trekking or walks in nature. It is possible to ski in the winter and to admire the sea from the peak of it. Reach up to 3000 meters of altitude, the volcano offers unique sensations and experiences. Exploring Mount Etna means to venture into a land that is unique, magical, captivating and complex.
During your stay at Monaci delle Terre Nere, we also suggest that you take some time to explore the treasures of Eastern Sicily, from its art-rich towns to its breath-taking natural sceneries. Sicily has always been a melting pot of peoples and cultures all around the Mediterranean, its beauty is guaranteed to charm you.
Mount Etna is a fully recognized world heritage site because of its scientific and cultural relevance worldwide.
Its high craters, its cinder cones, the lava caves, the depression of the Bove Valley, its frequent eruptions both from the central crater and from side fissures, fascinate and attract scientists and tourists from all over the world.
The “Strada del Vino dell’Etna”, translated as “Etna’s Wine Path”, is an association that promotes the discovery of Mount Etna through a “path” along its vineyards and wines.
Etna is a rich and generous land, the volcanic activity gives its fruits a unique swing. The association encompasses the best wine cellars and wineries of the area and offers travellers unforgettable experiences along the wine path. Monaci delle Terre Nere is a proud member of this association.
If you go to Catania, don’t forget to visit "la Pescheria", the traditional fish market. The market is located next to the Duomo square, which has a white Obelisk balancing on the back of an Elephant, symbol of the city of Catania, which stands out against the city cathedral, or duomo, Sant’Agata.
Just a ten-minute walk from the Duomo, discover the Monastery of Saint Nicolò l’Arena, a jewel of late Sicilian baroque and one of the largest Benedictine monasteries in Europe.
The Eolian Islands will seduce you! Visit them all, if you can: Lipari, Salina, Panarea, Stromboli, Vulcano, Alicudi e Filicudi. Each sister has its own peculiar characteristics; they all share the same wonderful sea!
From Monaci’s helipad you can reach them by private helicopter.
The formation of the Alcantara Gorges dates back 300.000 years. The river has patiently carved a path through the lava, which has deep, irregular cracks formed by its cooling process.
A breath-taking natural landscape, perfect for hiking or body rafting.
Taormina is nestled between the majestic volcano and a breath-taking coastline and it is one the world’s wonders.
Before visiting the Greek Theatre, stop at Isola Bella and enjoy the sunshine and the sea. Have a drink at sunset in one of the fantastic hotel terraces overlooking the sea.
Siracusa is a beautiful town. It has an extensive archaeological area where you can admire Archimedes’ tomb and the grand Greek Theatre, which still sets the stage for classical theatre plays.
The Isle of Ortigia is the oldest part of town and a true jewel. It can be reached by crossing the Umbertino bridge. Then keep walking until you reach Fonte Aretusa, a natural freshwater spring only a few steps from the sea.
Noto is a world heritage site and has the richest baroque city centre in the world. You can’t miss its “Infiorata”, an amazing event which takes place on the third Sunday of May.
Marzamemi is a typical sea village not far from Noto. A fairytale village built with yellow stone little houses around two natural harbours.
La Villa del Casale, in Piazza Armerina, offers one the most precious displays of Roman mosaics in the world. The room with female figures playing ball games wearing an “ante litteram” bikini is famous worldwide.
