General Information
Piano Provenzana is one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Sicily.
Located at 1,800 meters above sea level on the north side of Etna, it is reached by traveling along the Mareneve road that crosses the Ragabo Pine Forest - the highest pine forest in Sicily.
The Mareneve Road: a Suggestive Journey
The journey to reach Piano Provenzana is already a beautiful experience. The Mareneve road passes through a forest of centuries-old pines, immersing you in a suggestive and unique atmosphere.
The Most Beautiful Side of Etna
Piano Provenzana offers the most beautiful view of Etna. The panoramas range from the main crater to the Ionian Sea, Taormina and - when the sky is clear - even Calabria.
Unique characteristics:
- It's the only place in Sicily where you can ski while looking at the sea
- Panoramas that combine volcano, sea, mountains and forests
- A unique landscape in the world
- Ideal starting point to reach the volcano's craters
Etna Excursions from Piano Provenzana
Piano Provenzana is the privileged starting point for the most spectacular excursions on Etna Nord.
High Altitude Experiences
Here you can experience the thrill of climbing up to 3000 meters thanks to:
- Special 4x4 vehicles to reach high altitudes
- Guided trekking on trails immersed in breathtaking volcanic landscapes
Available Excursions
Main options:
- Tour to the 2002 eruption craters
- Trekking to the Pizzi Deneri volcanological observatory
- Suggestive panoramas of the Valle del Bove and the Sicilian coast
- Sunset excursions
Expert Volcanological Guides
Expert volcanological guides offer information on:
- Volcano geology
- Eruption history
- Local flora and fauna
Every experience is safe and fascinating for everyone.
The Magic of the Volcano
From the power of active craters to the fascinating glimpses of centuries-old forests, every excursion offers:
- Unforgettable emotions
- Spectacular unique views
- The magic of the volcano in all its seasons
The Most Booked Excursions from Piano Provenzana
Etna 3000 Meters: 4x4 + Trekking - The most requested excursion that takes you up to 3000 meters altitude.
Itinerary:
- Departure in 4x4 off-road vehicles following the tracks of the 2002 eruption
- Stop at the buttonhole of lateral craters
- Continue to the Pizzi Deneri Observatory (2,840 m)
- Short trekking to the panoramic point at 3000 meters
- Spectacular views of the Aeolian Islands, Calabria and the summit craters
- Return crossing the imposing Piano delle Concazze
Sunset on Etna - A magical and romantic experience on Etna's summit craters.
Characteristics:
- Evening excursion with sunset on the craters
- Admire the volcano's colors that change with the golden light
- Continue under the stars in one of Sicily's clearest skies
- Perfect for couples and photography enthusiasts
- Capture the wild beauty of Etna in a unique moment
History of the Tourist Station
From Origins to the First Ski Lift
The history of Piano Provenzana as a tourist station has ancient roots.
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1919: The mayor of Linguaglossa, Francesco Castrogiovanni, spoke of the "beautiful idea of using the natural beauties and panoramas of the forest".
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Initial problem: Getting there was very difficult. There was only a path called "la Trainara" that could only be done on foot or with mules.
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April 11, 1947: Work began on the Mareneve road based on an idea by the Honorable Attilio Castrogiovanni. However, reaching the station still posed many problems.
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Summer 1972: The real breakthrough came when Commissioner Angelino Emmi signed the decision to build the road that would connect the Mareneve to Piano Provenzana.
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April 1973: The first ski lift, called Puchoz (also known as Baby), was installed, and on Christmas of the same year, it began transporting the first skiers.
The 2002 Eruption: Destruction and Rebirth
Among the most significant events in recent history, the eruption of October 27, 2002 represents a fundamental chapter.
The Perfect Eruption
This eruption, called "the perfect eruption" by scholars, saw the northeast Rift of Etna activate and form a "buttonhole" of eruptive vents.
The Devastation
Lava began to flow and quickly:
- Transformed the tourist station into a lava desert
- Erased years of history in a few hours
- In just 10 days, the lava flow traveled about 13 km towards Linguaglossa
The eruption was devastating.
The Rebirth
Today, standing before this enormous mass of stone, one can imagine the destructive force nature can possess.
Despite the devastation, the station has risen from its ashes:
- Rebuilding tourist infrastructures
- Offering visitors the unique opportunity to observe the effects of a recent eruption
Today, standing before this enormous mass of stone, one can imagine the destructive force nature can possess. Despite the devastation, Piano Provenzana has risen from its ashes, rebuilding tourist infrastructures and offering visitors the unique opportunity to observe the effects of a recent eruption.
What to do at Piano Provenzana
During the winter season, Piano Provenzana becomes a veritable ski resort.
Unique characteristics:
- 4 ski slopes available
- Skiing on an active volcano with a sea view
- A truly unforgettable experience
- Difficult to replicate in other ski resorts around the world
Alternative activities for non-skiers:
- Beautiful snow excursions
- Sled rental for families with children
- Fun on the snowy slopes of the volcano
Snow-covered 2002 Craters
Want to experience the thrill of walking on the 2002 eruption craters during winter?
This video shows you exactly what to expect from a winter excursion.
What you'll see:
- The snow-covered craters offer a completely different experience compared to summer
- Breathtaking panoramas that combine volcanic power and winter beauty
- The impressive grandeur of these craters
- Spectacular view of the snow-covered summit craters
Available keyboard controls:
- Space: Play/Pause
- F: Fullscreen
- Left/Right arrows: Forward/Backward 10 seconds
Piano Provenzana in Summer: Excursions and Trekking
During the summer months, Piano Provenzana becomes the perfect base for excursions towards the summit craters of Etna.
Available guided tours:
- Exploration of lunar landscapes
- Discovery of lush forests
- Observation of unique volcanic formations
Area characteristics:
- Contrast between almost alpine landscape and lava flows
- Scenarios of extraordinary beauty
- The Rifugio Timparossa nestled in the beech forest (historic landmark for hikers)
- Local flora and fauna adapted to the volcanic environment
Practical Tips for Your Visit
When to Visit Piano Provenzana
Piano Provenzana offers different experiences depending on the season:
Winter (December-March)
- Ideal period for winter sports enthusiasts
- Abundant snow on the ski slopes
- Cold temperatures but breathtaking landscapes
Spring (April-June)
- Perfect season for excursions
- Mild and comfortable temperatures
- Blooming nature and vibrant colors
Summer (July-September)
- Excellent for escaping the heat of the Sicilian coasts
- Cooler temperatures at altitude
- Long days for excursions
Autumn (October-November)
- Suggestive period with autumn colors
- Fewer tourists
- More intimate and peaceful atmosphere
What to Bring
In winter:
- Thermal clothing
- Gloves and scarf
- Sunglasses (light reflected on snow can be intense)
- Non-slip shoes
In summer:
- Layered clothing (temperatures can vary significantly)
- Sun hat
- High protection sunscreen
- Trekking shoes
In any season:
- Plenty of water
- Energy snacks
- Camera to capture the breathtaking panoramas
- Power bank for electronic devices
Experiences Not to Miss
1. Skiing with a sea view
A unique experience combining winter sports with maritime panoramas.
2. Visit to the Ragabo Pine Forest
- Explore the largest area of Laricio pines in Sicily
- Used since Roman times for shipbuilding
- Trails immersed in centuries-old nature
3. Panoramic photography
- Capture the incredible view stretching from the volcano to the sea
- Unique moments at sunset and sunrise
- Landscapes that change with the seasons
Piano Provenzana, An Unforgettable Experience
Piano Provenzana represents a unique destination of its kind.
Why visit it:
- The encounter between Europe's most active volcano and the Sicilian landscape
- Unforgettable experience for every type of visitor
- Wild beauty and fascinating history
- Ideal for winter sports enthusiasts, excursion lovers, and those seeking breathtaking panoramas
Visiting Piano Provenzana means immersing yourself in a territory that tells:
- The power of nature
- The human ability to be reborn after catastrophic events
- The unique bond between volcanic landscape, local traditions, and Sicilian hospitality
Prepare for adventure: Pack your backpack and set off to discover this jewel of Etna Nord, where every season offers different but equally intense emotions.