The Etna volcano is the highest active volcano in Europe. Here it is affectionately called Mongibello by the locals. The beautiful mountain.

Well, life with this natural wonder is not quite so simple. As it is very active, it is constantly erupting, releasing volcanic soil and lots of dust.

This has an incredible advantage in the area, because the soil for the winegrowers and farmers is very fertile and is practically constantly renewed. The disadvantage is that you really often have to dispose of the dust and small stones (lapilli) in your car or in front of your home. Driving on the roads is not so safe either, as they are like a sheet of ice, and you can quickly start to slip.

Etna has been the talk of the town for over 20 years, thanks to some pioneers in viticulture. The north in particular, with its best cru sites, has become an integral part of the international wine business.

The top wines from Etna have long been listed in renowned wine guides and the taste and color of the wines are strongly reminiscent of Burgundy or Piedmont with its wines.

Vineyards have now been planted at up to 1800 meters above sea level as experimental projects to see how the wine and climate change there.

Mount Etna has an eerie magic for visitors, and it is possible to go on guided tours up to the crater.

In winter there are ski resorts, even a ski school. The view over to the Greek theater and Castelmola is breathtaking, and I can only recommend stopping off at one of the good osterias or trattorias to enjoy the most delicious culinary delights there.

Fancy a trip to the volcano?