Mount Etna: a remote road to Europe's largest and most active volcano

Mount Etna is the largest active volcano in Europe. Located on the east coast of Sicily, Italy, a sandy road climbs up to 3.120m (10,236ft) above the sea level. It’s one of the highest roads of Europe.

Mount Etna

The road to the summit is gravel, rocky and sandy. Etna is one of the world’s most active volcanoes and is in an almost constant state of activity. Due to the high elevations and exposure, the road is subject to strong winds and rapid weather changes. Be prepared for the cold and wind! High winds blow here all year long. Even in summer you can confront with snowy days. A truly amazing landscape and the constant sounds of volcanic action can be heard. It’s one of the highest roads of the country. Only 4x4 vehicles.

Locally called "Mongibello", it’s Europe's largest and most active volcano. Do not take this drive if you have respiratory problems or any type of heart condition. The journey overlooks  the whole region. Its many twists, turns and narrows can pose a challenge to even the most experienced drivers. The road is not easy, though. Up, down, right, left all the time. Deep into the wild Nature, the trail follows lava flows, extinct craters, houses and churchs surrounded or destroyed by lava flows, centenary old trees, beautiful pine-woods and wonderful panoramas. The road is closed to private vehicles.

 

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