The excursion to “Grotta del Gelo” lasts about 7/9 hours; although it is not an excursion that requires technical skills, it is reserved for those who have a good physical condition and suitable equipment. It is recommended for those who want to spend a whole day into Etna’s big silences.
Tour may be subject to change due to bad weather conditions or increased volcanic activity
| START/RETURN PLACE | To be agreed | ||||
| LEAVING TIME | Within 9.15 AM in order to be ready to leave at 9.30 AM | ||||
| RETURNING TIME | Approximately at 6.00 PM. | ||||
| CLOTHING | Boots, windbreaker, hats (one for the sun and one for the cold), flashlight. | ||||
| INCLUDED |
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| NON INCLUDED |
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“Grotta del Gelo” (Ice Cave) is the most famous cave (lava tube) of Etna, so called because permanent ice can be found inside.
Situated at an altitude of 2030 m, it is located in Randazzo village territory. Since the early seventies it’s conical entrance is a destination not only for hikers and tourists but also for experts and scientists. Previously it was used by shepards to water the flocks. The landscapes crossed during the excursion are of rare beauty: from fresh beech forest to wonderful natural sculptures of the endless pahoehoe lava field of 1614-24 eruption.
Different routes are available, every one of them can be faced up as a loop hike.
The price refers to groups of at least 5 persons; otherwise ask for a quotation through the following link.
Additional information
| Durata | 6-7 hours |
|---|---|
| Dove | Etna |
| Difficoltà | Medium / Easy |
1
9.15 AM : Leaving time
Different routes are available, every one of them can be faced up as a loop hike:
- From Rocca Mandorla along the paved road upstream of Randazzo, called “Quota Mille”, climbing along a path traced through abandoned vineyards reaching forestry path, and the little shelter of Monte Spagnolo; later, walking along Etna’s highest beech forest and reaching the lava field of the eruption of 1614 up to the cave’s entrance: way down along the same path or along “Dagala dell’Orso” trail.
- From Piano Provenzana you climbing on the northeast rift’s buttresses, reaching Monte Nero and the shelter of Monte Timpa Rossa; later, along a small path trough beech trees and lava fields the cave will be reached: way down along the same path or “Monte Pizzillo” path visiting the gorgeous hornitos of 1947 eruption.
2
5.30 PM – 6.30 PM: Returning time
