The World of XPILAR - LANDSCAPE/SEASCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY AND ART #177 / A Volcanic Adventure

Mount Etna attracts many people eager to explore this giant of ash and lava. The area around it is designated as a natural reserve, where special hiking trails for climbing are available, along with numerous expert guides. However, it's not essential to bring a guide with you. You can ascend to the summit on your own, as special signs and explanations are provided along the entire route. But if you don't hike in the mountains often, hiring a guide is essential, as well as comfortable and sturdy footwear! Montebello" is what the Sicilians call Etna, the tallest active volcano in Europe, standing at 3,329 meters. In translation, it means beautiful mountain. Almost every year, Etna reminds us of its presence. One of the largest eruptions occurred in the distant year of 1669 when ash and lava buried more than ten villages in the Catania region.

Etna was benevolent and revealed itself to us in all its splendor. Often, the summit is shrouded in clouds and mist, but on that day, the sun illuminated the brown-black volcanic ridges. The craters of extinct volcanoes were clearly outlined, and yellow-green grasses had already taken over the lower slopes, as if to demonstrate the resurgence of life even after everything had been reduced to ashes. 🔥

The entire landscape is so whimsical and surreal – the black mountain, the gray sky, and the slopes dusted as if with golden powder. However, this is not the noble metal but the only type of grass that manages to grow on the dried lava.

With every centimeter you ascend towards the craters, something extraordinary unfolds. Slowly but surely, the noise of the plains fades away, and silence thickens like fog. Quieter and quieter, higher and higher... You have the feeling that you're embarking on your last journey to encounter an ancient fire-breathing monster. 💣

To gear up for this adventure, ensure you have a versatile wardrobe. Pack a short-sleeved t-shirt for potential heat and a sturdy jacket for less favorable weather. If you lack a suitable jacket, renting one is an option. And for those who'd rather not hike, consider renting a jeep for a different experience. Just keep in mind, renting a jeep comes with a price tag of 65 euros!

Тhe views are breathtaking, and the very fact that I was walking on a volcano that could turn us to ash in minutes was an adrenaline-packed experience for a lifetime.💥 Etna is an incredible place, and I highly recommend it! It will stay in your heart forever. Enjoy💕