The beauty and energy of the Etna volcano are the frame of Shalai
Experiences in front of Etna, UNESCO site since 2013
Etna according to Shalai
Mount Etna can be experienced in so many ways, for example through excursions and guided tours at high altitudes, with breath-taking views and surreal landscapes. This natural wonder will attract you to it. You can ask for more information about the many activities that are offered on Mount Etna at the reception desk, especially the ones that are only known by the locals. Etna’s beauty is beyond words, it will pull at your heartstrings and stay with you.
Helicopter tours
The world offers a very different perspective when seen from the sky, onboard a helicopter. If we then drive the helicopter over Mount Etna, the fascinating view that will unravel at your feet can hardly be described. You will have a chance to admire and photograph the ever-changing colours of the rocks and the vegetation, the volcanic landscapes, under the undisputed reign of nature as you fly over the Volcano’s summit. Beauty acquires a different dimension from this perspective. This active Volcano is the tallest in Europe. Its massive size does not make for a static view, as the volcano’s activity brings it to life!
Excursions on quad bikes
This adrenaline-filled adventure will not give you time to catch your breath. You will experience up close everything nature can offer. Excursions on Mount Etna with quad bikes are a timeless treasure hunt, an experience that connects you to nature in its wildest and most primal forms. Usually, you drive off road to cross through the undergrowth to the historic solidified lava flows such as the one that destroyed Piano Provenzana in 2002. These unbeaten paths will allow you to experience untamed nature, and that extreme environment that is unforgettable and special.
Visiting the craters
A fabulous experience for hiking enthusiasts. Reaching the summit craters of Mount Etna means getting to about 2,500 meters above sea level. Every step will be a discovery along an untamed natural landscape, where you will savour silence, beauty, energy, and ever-changing colours. We recommend that you go in the company of a specialized guide, who would know the routes and certainly give you the best experience of this journey, immersed in the absolute beauty of a place that changes with each passing season, and with the frequent lava flows, that mould the landscape into new shapes, paving the way for new and exciting paths.
Winter sports, and more
During the winter time, Mount Etna has the largest ski resort destination in Sicily, thanks to the skiing slopes and lifts Etna Sud and Etna Nord. If you are staying in Shalai during winter you should certainly schedule at least one skiing or snowboarding day. The snowy slopes will excite you and fill you with wonder. During the spring, summer and autumn there are many activities to enjoy, such as mountain biking, hiking and trail running. The trail paths set up through the years lead you through lush vegetation and ancient solidified lava flows that define the landscape and your journey through it. Mount Etna is beautiful even on an unplanned, inspired walk, that can be savoured step by step.
