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Discover
Places to see
Natural Monuments
Italy
Sicily
Catania
Zafferana Etnea

View of the Valle del Bove from the Schiena dell'Asino

Discover
Places to see
Natural Monuments
Italy
Sicily
Catania
Zafferana Etnea

View of the Valle del Bove from the Schiena dell'Asino

Highlight • Viewpoint

View of the Valle del Bove from the Schiena dell'Asino

Hiking

4.9

(130)

Routes leading to this Highlight may be dangerous

Routes may comprise technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience may be required.

This Highlight is in a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Parco dell'Etna

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  • Location: Zafferana Etnea, Catania, Sicily, Italy

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    Tips

    October 23, 2017

    Hiking

    Before the start of the tour necessarily inform about the weather conditions. Between autumn and spring the weather can change quickly at these altitudes. Strong wind, rain and snow make walking on the ridges extremely dangerous. Check the weather forecast before you start the tour. Strong winds, heavy rain or snow are very dangerous on this trail.
    Translated by

    August 8, 2022

    Hiking

    Apex of the donkey's back easily reachable in about an hour from the homonymous entrance to the forest. Unique views of the valley and the crater, even more so during the eruptive phase.
    Translated by

    August 1, 2022

    Hiking

    Famous valley of Etna that collects all the eruptions of the volcano. Beautiful view from the donkey's back path.
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    Nearby routes

    Best routes near View of the Valle del Bove from the Schiena dell'Asino

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    4.8

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    656

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    #1.

    Panorama of the Valle del Bove and Schiena dell'Asino in the Parco dell'Etna

    4.82km

    01:34

    220m

    220m

    Embark on an easy 3.0-mile (4.8 km) hike through the unique volcanic landscape of Parco dell'Etna. This trail, which takes about 1 hour and 33 minutes to complete, guides you through diverse terrain, starting on an asphalt road before transitioning to a track with some rocky sections. You will gain 718 feet (219 metres) in elevation, leading you to spectacular views. Along the way, you will encounter pine forests and high-altitude meadows, contrasting with the lunar-like volcanic terrain.

    This accessible route starts from Rifugio Sapienza, a well-known spot on Mount Etna's southern side. While the trail is generally easy, sturdy footwear is recommended due to potentially rocky or muddy sections, especially after rain. If you plan to hike during heavy winter snowfall, typically from late December to mid-March, snowshoes might be necessary. Always check weather forecasts before you begin, as strong winds can make the ridges dangerous.

    The Panorama of the Valle del Bove and Schiena dell'Asino trail is notable for offering one of the most impressive viewpoints into the vast Valle del Bove. This massive caldera, formed about 65,000 years ago, appears as a huge expanse of dried lava, resembling a black lake. From the trail, you can see ancient lava flows, secondary volcanic cones, and on clear days, panoramic vistas stretching from the Catania coastline to Syracuse, encompassing the Ionian Sea.

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    Easy
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    4.6

    (28)

    133

    hikers

    Embark on the Schiena dell'Asino - Montagnola Loop, a challenging hike that takes you across Mount Etna's unique volcanic landscape. This difficult route covers 8.4 miles (13.6 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 2632 feet (802 metres), typically requiring about 5 hours and 18 minutes to complete. You will experience a dramatic shift in scenery, moving from lush pine forests to stark, barren volcanic expanses, all while enjoying panoramic views that stretch towards the Sicilian coast and the city of Catania.

    Before you head out, make sure you have proper trekking shoes; they are essential for navigating the rocky and volcanic ground. The trail is well-marked with clear red and white markers, which helps you stay on track. Always check the local conditions and weather forecast before starting your hike to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the mountain.

    This trail offers a unique opportunity to traverse the distinctive 'Schiena dell'Asino' ridge, which provides spectacular vistas into the immense Valle del Bove. The ever-changing terrain and the sheer scale of the volcanic environment make this route a memorable adventure within Parco dell'Etna, showcasing the raw power and beauty of one of Europe's most active volcanoes.

    Hard
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    4.0

    (1)

    1

    hikers

    Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

    Hard

    Details

    Informations

    Elevation 2,030 m

    Weather

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    Tuesday 12 May

    12°C

    1°C

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    Location: Zafferana Etnea, Catania, Sicily, Italy

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