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Piccolo Rifugio (Etna South)

Highlight • Volcano

Piccolo Rifugio (Etna South)

Hiking

4.8

(270)

Mountaineering

5.0

(1)

This Highlight is in a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Parco dell'Etna

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  • Location: Nicolosi, Catania, Sicily, Italy

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  • Take Me There

    Tips

    September 21, 2017

    Hiking

    A fascinating piece of earth and you feel as a human being infinitely small and humble towards nature.
    The jeep tour oh up is highly recommended.
    Attention: If it is 25 ° C on the beach, it is about 4 ° C at the top. So wear warm!
    Translated by

    July 27, 2021

    Hiking

    Definitely not to be missed! And also very important: don't forget enough water!
    Translated by

    August 29, 2021

    Hiking

    Sciova Piccolo Rifugio is a former ski lift (built in 2009) in the Etna Sud area.

    skiresort.de/skigebiet/aetna-sued-nicolosi/liftebahnen/l95843
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    Nearby routes

    Best routes near Piccolo Rifugio (Etna South)

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    4.7

    (157)

    1,054

    hikers

    #1.

    Summit Craters Trail

    11.2km

    04:41

    960m

    960m

    The Summit Craters Trail offers a challenging hike across an otherworldly volcanic landscape. You will traverse rugged, unpaved paths, often walking around the rim of a volcanic cone, with the Cratere Piano del Lago as a key feature. This difficult route covers 7.0 miles (11.2 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 3147 feet (959 metres). Plan for approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes to complete this demanding journey, experiencing dramatic scenery where lava flows and ash continuously shape the terrain.

    Before you set out, ensure you have very good fitness, sure-footedness, and sturdy hiking shoes for this difficult trail. The starting point at Rifugio Sapienza is a popular base on Mount Etna's southern side, where you can find amenities. Always check local conditions before your visit, as volcanic activity and weather patterns can change rapidly on the mountain. It is crucial to be prepared for varying conditions and potential closures.

    This trail provides a unique opportunity to experience the raw power of Mount Etna up close. You might even feel warmth emanating from the ground through your shoe soles, a direct sign of the volcano's ongoing activity. From the craters, you can enjoy expansive views of Mount Etna and its surroundings, with vistas stretching towards the valley below on clear days. It is a truly immersive experience into a dynamic natural environment.

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    Hard
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    4.5

    (38)

    171

    hikers

    Embark on the Schiena dell'Asino - Montagnola Loop, a challenging hike that takes you across Mount Etna's unique volcanic landscape. This difficult route covers 8.4 miles (13.6 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 2632 feet (802 metres), typically requiring about 5 hours and 18 minutes to complete. You will experience a dramatic shift in scenery, moving from lush pine forests to stark, barren volcanic expanses, all while enjoying panoramic views that stretch towards the Sicilian coast and the city of Catania.

    Before you head out, make sure you have proper trekking shoes; they are essential for navigating the rocky and volcanic ground. The trail is well-marked with clear red and white markers, which helps you stay on track. Always check the local conditions and weather forecast before starting your hike to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the mountain.

    This trail offers a unique opportunity to traverse the distinctive 'Schiena dell'Asino' ridge, which provides spectacular vistas into the immense Valle del Bove. The ever-changing terrain and the sheer scale of the volcanic environment make this route a memorable adventure within Parco dell'Etna, showcasing the raw power and beauty of one of Europe's most active volcanoes.

    Hard
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    4.7

    (6)

    60

    hikers

    Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

    Hard

    Details

    Informations

    Elevation 2,530 m

    Weather

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    Today

    Monday 17 August

    24°C

    10°C

    49 %

    Additional weather tips

    Max wind speed: 8.0 km/h

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    Location: Nicolosi, Catania, Sicily, Italy

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