Climb to the Volcanological Observatory 2900 mt

Type: Interesting

Description:
In the middle of a remote and high-altitude area is the Volcanological Observatory, partially abandoned for years. Currently active are the clinometer and stations for gravimetric, seismic, GPS, infrasound monitoring as well as a laser interferometer. The observatory is at nearly 3000m altitude and features dome shapes designed to prevent snow accumulation in winter. The altitude offers a spectacular view; if lucky with clear weather, one can see the Catania coast, Taormina coast, Aeolian Islands, and even Calabria, though the greatest thrill is the lunar landscape around the observatory, devoid of vegetation where lava rock dominates. The observatory is easily reachable via guided tours using 4x4 vans suitable for families. We chose to go further with a long day hike suitable only for expert hikers (inadequate preparation or lack of terrain knowledge could be dangerous due to the unstable path where one sinks into lava ash at every step). Our route starts at the famous Citelli refuge (Etna Nord), easily accessible by car. Here begins our trek through the beautiful Serracozzo Caves to the immense Valle del Bove. After a stop to admire the valley and smoking Bocca Nuova, the hardest part begins: a steep technical climb to 2900m, then a couple of km of ups and downs to suddenly reach the observatory domes emerging in a landscape where human presence seems impossible. The loop ends with a ring path.

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Video length: 02:16