ETNA FARM TO TABLE
Experience Sicily like never before, where food, culture, and breathtaking landscapes come together on this unforgettable journey.
Starting in the charming towns of Taormina or Giardini Naxos, you’ll pick up your rental classic Fiat 500 and set off on an unforgettable adventure through the picturesque Alcantara Valley. Cruise past lush citrus orchards and centuries-old olive groves, all while enjoying stunning views of the Alcantara River and its dramatic gorges.
After soaking in the panoramic views of the river’s spectacular basalt columns, you’ll head to Castiglione di Sicilia, a medieval village nestled among chestnut and hazel groves. Navigate through its narrow, cobblestone streets until you reach the historic town center. Here, you’ll visit the majestic Castello di Lauria, the fortress that gave the town its name, as well as the Basilica of the Madonna della Catena, perched on a beautiful staircase.
After a sweet stop at a local pastry shop to savor the town’s delicious traditional pastries, you’ll continue your journey to the 9th-century Byzantine Church of “Cuba,” hidden deep within the countryside and surrounded by rolling vineyards.
Finally, you’ll drive along the famous “Strada del Vino” (Etna Wine Road), heading towards one of the finest organic farms on Mount Etna, known for producing high-quality olive oil. Here, you’ll have the chance to explore the olive groves and enjoy a delightful olive oil tasting experience, perfectly paired with freshly baked homemade bread. As you taste the rich flavors of our own olives, you’ll also savor a selection of bruschette, one with aromatic herbs and the other with sun-dried tomatoes, all generously drizzled with the farm’s finest olive oil.
To complement the tasting, you’ll enjoy two varieties of local cheeses and a slice of salame di suino nero, a traditional delicacy from the region. The meal is rounded off with a taste of caponata (or another seasonal vegetable dish), offering the perfect reflection of Sicily’s rich agricultural heritage.
Things to note
Things to note
Departures
Monday to Saturday, 9:30 am
Duration
Approx 5:00 hrs
Typology
Town sightseeing
Included
English-speaking guide
Seats
2 adults ( or 2 adults and 2 children) in each Fiat 500
ALCANTARA RIVER
The name “Alcantara” comes from the Arabic word al Qanţara, meaning “the Bridge” – a nod to an ancient Roman bridge discovered by the Arabs. Thousands of years ago, the river’s path was blocked by a dramatic lava flow from Mount Etna, creating a stunning natural spectacle. Over centuries, the river carved its way through these solidified lava flows, forming impressive gorges with towering basalt columns that have earned a place among the most beautiful landscapes in Sicily. Whether you’re gazing at the striking basalt formations or feeling the rush of cool water, a visit to the Alcantara River is like stepping into a living, evolving masterpiece of nature.
CASTIGLIONE DI SICILIA
Nestled between the majestic Mount Etna and the crystal-clear Alcantara River, Castiglione di Sicilia is a charming, quintessential Sicilian village surrounded by lush forests of chestnut, oak, and hazel. Founded by the Greeks atop a mount, this picturesque village has stood the test of time. Once a Norman stronghold, it was strategically placed to protect its people from pirate invasions during the Middle Ages. As you wander its narrow streets, you’ll be transported back in time, with every stone and corner telling a story of Sicily’s rich and turbulent past.
Cuba – Byzantine Church
Just a short distance from Castiglione di Sicilia lies the Church of Santa Domenica, a hidden gem that dates back to the 7th century. Known as the “Cuba” due to its distinctive domed roof, this Byzantine church is one of Italy’s most significant historical landmarks. Declared a national monument in 1909, it stands as a testament to the island’s deep cultural and architectural heritage. As you approach this timeless sanctuary, you’ll be mesmerized by its serene beauty, surrounded by the tranquil countryside and vineyards that have thrived for centuries.
Casa Merlino
Nestled on the slopes of Mount Etna, Casa Merlino is a hidden paradise, surrounded by the lush greenery of an expansive olive grove. This charming retreat offers both indoor and outdoor spaces that captivate the senses. With two spacious rooms, a professional kitchen, a perfectly manicured English lawn, and a panoramic terrace with breathtaking views, Casa Merlino is the ideal setting for an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re relaxing in the peaceful garden or enjoying the views of the majestic Etna, every corner of this enchanting space invites you to unwind and connect with the beauty of Sicily.
