Your Sicily Update: The Magic of Taormina & Etna

Intrepid travelers,

We’re getting closer to our Sicilian adventure, and we’re thrilled to share a little preview of what awaits you on the island. Here’s your next trip update, filled with inspiration, helpful details, and a fun taste of Sicily to try at home. This email contains

• A Taste of Taormina - Highlights & Hotel Preview

• Mt. Etna Adventures - 4×4 Trekking & Wines of Etna

• A Taste of Sicily at Home - Caponata

A Taste of Taormina: History, Beauty & La Dolce Vita

Perched high above the Ionian Sea, Taormina has been a coveted retreat since the ancient Greeks first scouted the coastline and said, “Yes, this will do.” Today it remains a blend of dramatic scenery, resort-town charm, and winding medieval streets made for leisurely exploration.

What you’ll Love – 

• The Greek Theater – A spectacular ancient amphitheater with Mt. Etna smoldering quietly in the background.

• Piazza IX Aprile – Taormina’s iconic terrace, perfect for people-watching, photography, and a late-afternoon spritz.

• Boutique wandering – Ceramics, linen, jewelry, and Sicilian specialty shops line the main street. You’ll have plenty of free time to explore.

Where You’ll Stay - The Splendid Hotel

Your home base sits just above Taormina’s historic heart, with serene sea views and walkable access to cafés, shopping, and the lively evening passeggiata. The Splendid Hotel lives up to its name with -

• A refreshing outdoor pool framed by bougainvillea

• Comfortable, modern rooms with balconies and a touch of Italian style

• Easy access to town while still feeling peaceful and tucked away- It’s the perfect launchpad for each day’s adventures.

The Etna Adventure: 4x4 Trekking to the High Slopes & Wines With Altitude

To make Mt. Etna fully accessible for everyone, we’ll be heading up the mountain on a 4x4 trekking experience with Go Etna, Sicily’s premier volcanic-guiding team. This morning, half-day adventure takes you high onto Etna’s otherworldly slopes, far beyond where standard vehicles can reach.

You’ll explore old craters, moon-like lava fields, and viewpoints where you can see the coastline stretch endlessly below. Along the way, your local guide will share stories of eruptions, geology, and life lived on the edge of Europe’s most active volcano. It’s exciting, safe, and designed for all comfort levels, no strenuous hiking required unless you want to explore short, optional paths.

Etna in a Glass: Meet Nerello Mascalese and Carricante

Mt. Etna’s slopes host some of the most fascinating vineyards in Europe: terraced plots of black volcanic soil, ancient stone walls, and family-run cellars producing wines with heart and heritage featuring two unforgettable varieties you’ll taste throughout the trip:

Nerello Mascalese– Often described as “Mediterranean Pinot Noir meets volcanic magic,” this elegant red offers red fruit, herbs, and a gentle smoky note from Etna’s soils.

Carricante – A crisp, citrusy white with incredible freshness and minerality. Think alpine energy plus a whisper of sea breeze.

These are the wines that define Etna and soon you’ll be tasting them at the source.

A Fun Taste of Sicily at Home: Caponata

If you want a little flavor adventure before we meet in Taormina, try making Sicilian Caponata, a sweet-and-sour eggplant dish that locals adore. It’s vibrant, flexible, and even better the next day. Here’s a recipe we love!

If you make it, send us a photo! We love seeing your kitchen travels. Tag us @terroirtours on Facebook & Instagram.

As always, we’re here if you have questions as your travel date approaches. More updates are on the way soon!

Warmly,

Lauren & Jake

Terroir Tours