Among Cherry Trees and Lava Flows - Etna

July 07, 2019
On Etna, we enjoy a unique environment for all kinds of fruits, vegetables, plants, and flowers. This is not only due to the mineral-rich volcanic soil but, above all, to the contrast between the warm climate near the sea and the cooler temperatures at higher altitudes.
For this cherry-picking occasion, we are welcomed by the “Le Delizie dell’Etna” farm, run by Signora Jessica Tomarchio. It is a family-run business where they still cultivate the land with passion and great love, which is exactly why they produce such high-quality goods.
During our visit to this farm, we will embark on a 12 km loop hike on the North-East side of the volcano. We will set off from Magazzeni (1080 m), a site of great historical importance for Sant’Alfio, where the lava flow heading toward the town stopped in 1928. Further on, we will pass the vents from the same 1928 eruption at Fosse Santoro, which destroyed the town of Mascali. After that, we will continue toward Contrada Cerrita, heading back up to higher altitudes along a path through the Turkey oak forest until we reach our starting point.

Fee: € 22.00 - Includes guide service, lunch (lunch includes: bread, grilled sausage and mushrooms, dessert, and drinks), cherry tasting at the “Delizia dell’Etna” farm, organization, and RCT insurance.
Not included: fuel costs for travel.
Meeting point: Sunday 07/07/2019 at 09:30 AM in Milo (CT), via Etnea, in front of the church of Sant'Andrea.
End of excursion: 05:30 PM at the same starting point.
Travel: own car.
Loop trail: 6 hours of walking including breaks – Forest track, mule track, and marked trail.
Difficulty: moderate.
Required equipment: trekking clothing, small backpack, k-way (rain jacket), hiking boots, waterproof jacket, hat, 1.5 liters of water.
Guide: Salvatore Marletta: contact 3334987946
Email: [email protected]; [email protected]