His Majesty Etna is the highest active volcano in Europewith its current 3,357 meters, reached after the recent eruptions of 2021. And it is precisely its being in constant evolution, with a profile and height incessantly reshaped by subsequent eruptions, which represents one of the most fascinating elements of the “Mongibello ”.
Environments and colors on Etna
The variety of environments and colors of Etna, ranging from the very green forests of pines, chestnuts and oaks, to the black of the lava rock and the gray of the ash of the Valle del Bove, passing through the intense yellow of the broom in spring and the blue of the sea of the east coast, create magnetic contrasts and render “in Muntagna” an unmissable stop for cycle tourists.
A very panoramic route of 38 kilometres
The Altomontana slope on Etna is a very panoramic route that extends over an altitude of approximately 2000 meters and which completes a semi-circumnavigation from the south-east to the north-east of Etna. An itinerary through unique panoramas that range from the Ionian coast to the summit craters, from the Aeolian Islands to the Sicilian hinterland.
With a total length of 38 kilometersthe Altomontana track – if tackled with a pedal-assisted bike – can be covered even if your legs are not particularly well trained.
Left the Sapienza refugestarting point, you enter the dirt road that marks the beginning of the route, immediately characterized by a splendid breathtaking view: the south-east crater and the Bocca Nuova.
During the route you cross the famous lava flow which in 1981 threatened the city of Randazzo and interrupted the path of the Altomontana track. An eruption of only six days, which however had a significant impact on the surrounding area.
Passed the Casermetta refuge of Monte Spagnolo, where it is possible to stop among the pines of Etna and the green beech forests, continue towards the Dammusi Passlocated 1760 meters above sea level.
The longest eruption of Etna was recorded here, lasting ten years, from 1614 to 1624. Furthermore, you can admire the famous “cordate lavas” and visit the spectacular Raspberry Caveone of the most beautiful caves in the area.
