Bove Valley trek: From the Observatory to Pietracannone

The trekking itinerary

We will meet at Piano Provenzana, where the guide will provide a briefing on the hike and the necessary equipment. From here, we will transfer by 4×4 bus to the Volcanological Observatory, at an elevation of 2,800 meters. The trek starts from the Volcanological Observatory, a unique vantage point that offers spectacular views of the Lion Valley, the most recent eruptive fractures, and the summit craters. After observing the moonscapes of this area, we will begin the descent to Mt. Rittmann. On the way down, we will cross Mt. Rittmann and Mt. Simone, two secondary craters that bear witness to Etna’s lateral eruptions. Here, the guide will explain the complex volcanic activity that shaped the surrounding landscape. Continuing on, we will arrive at Rocca Musarra and Dicco Sauro, two distinctive rock formations created by the intrusion of solidified magma within fractures. These volcanic dykes represent some of the most fascinating evidence of the lava solidification process. A highlight of the tour will be passing by the eruptive fracture of 2022, one of the most recent and significant volcanic events. The guide will explain the impact of recent eruptions on the volcano’s landscape and ecosystem. We will cross the famous Saro Ruspa Trail, a historic trail that leads toward Casa Ficheri. This section begins to dive into a greener environment, where the first patches of vegetation begin to contrast with the volcanic sand. The last section of the trail takes us to Rifugio Pietracannone, through a beautiful undergrowth of chestnuts and gorse. Here, the contrast between the lush vegetation and the lava flows offers an unforgettable spectacle. The trek ends at the refuge, where we will find our return point.

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Bove Valley Trekking Details: From the Observatory to Pietracannone

The excursion starts from Piano Provenzana. Departure is scheduled for the morning at about 8 a.m. The meeting is always at least 20 minutes before departure, so you can check your equipment, receive the guide’s explanation and to have time to go to the bathroom. The hike takes about 6 hours in total, between the trek and the guide’s explanation during the hike. Good condition and hiking experience is required for this hike. This is because the trail is quite unstable and therefore challenging. The trail is only suitable for experienced hikers.

• Meeting point: Provenzana Plan
• Total duration: About 6 hours
• Departure time: Approximately 08:00 a.m.
• Height difference: About 50m uphill and 1700m downhill
• Meeting times: 07:40 a.m.
• Distance: About 9.5 km
• Return time: About 2 p.m.
• Difficulty: For experienced walkers
• Duration 4x4 bus ascent: About 45 minutes
• Duration walking trek: About 4.5 hours

Price and availability excursion

The Bove Valley Trekking: From the Observatory to Pietracannone costs from €125.00 per person. Included in the price is the accompanying guide and the ascent by 4×4 bus from Piano Provenzana to the observatory at an altitude of 2800m. A minimum number of 5 participants is required for this trek.

• Adults: €125.00 per person (from)

For customized tour is private, price is on request. For groups (10+ people) and/or school groups, the price is upon request.

Payment

We work on the basis of trust. This means that we do not ask for any advance payment. You can pay the same day directly to the guide. It is possible to pay by cash, ATM or credit card.

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Availability

The excursion is available year-round, May through October, but only by reservation.

Including and excluding

Clothing, shoes & what to bring

For a good hiking trip, proper preparation is essential. We always recommend dressing in layers. How many and what layers depend on the season. But the higher you climb Mount Etna volcano, the colder it gets. In addition, wind can often make the weather seem even colder. A windbreaker and a hat are therefore not a luxury. It is possible to rent hiking shoes and a jacket by contacting the rental stores in Piano Provenzana. We recommend bringing a backpack with at least 1.5 L of water per person. It is also recommended to bring some sweet and/or salty snacks and a sack lunch. In total, the hike takes about 6 hours, so always bring something extra to eat! Also don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses! In brief:

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With the reservation we send you our packing list, with the things we recommend you to bring!