Shore Excursion Details

Taormina, Lava River & Wine Tasting

Messina (Sicily), Italy

Taormina, Lava River & Wine Tasting

DETAILS

  • 7
    hrs Estimate Duration

Enjoy free time in medieval Taormina, and then see the aftermath of Mount Etna’s eruptions by stopping at a hardened lava flow and sampling wines grown in volcanic soil.


After departing from the pier, you will drive through the center of Messina, which will offer a brief but enlightening introduction to this historical city on the northernmost point of Sicily’s Ionian coast. To the south lies the medieval village of Taormina, where you will enjoy free time to explore its narrow, cobblestone streets.


History buffs might visit the Arabian-influenced Palazzo Corvaja or the ruins of the 2nd-century Greek theater. It sits on a seaside hilltop with a view of Mount Etna that is so inspiring that it can detract from the entertainers that still perform there. Or you may prefer to shop for designer fashions and exquisite jewelry along boutique-lined Corso Umberto.


Rejoining your coach, you’ll travel into the countryside and before long, come upon a hardened wall of lava, the result of Mount Etna’s violent eruption in 1992. The lava came dangerously close to several villages, as you will see when pausing for photos.


While lava can be devastating, on the positive side, it contains nutrients that enrich the soil and lend a distinct flavor to the grapes grown in it, as you will discover at an estate wine tasting. You will sample several Etna-certified Sicilian wines that may include a classic red made from local nerello mascalese grapes. Then after browsing the gift shop, you will return to the pier.


Need to Know:

Note: This tour includes approximately 90 minutes easy to moderate guided walking/standing, plus any additional walking at the guests’ discretion in Taormina during 75 minutes of free time. No traffic is allowed inside the city walls of Taormina; therefore, all touring must be done on foot. There is an approximately 0.25-mile incline from the bus parking lot to the village gates and guests must be able to walk approximately 0.5 mile over uneven and cobblestone surfaces with inclines, as well as be able to negotiate 45 to 60 steps to reach the wine cellars. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests and not considered suitable for those with walking difficulties. Weather appropriate clothing; sun cap; sunglasses; sunscreen; and sturdy, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. This tour does not include entrance fees to any attractions in Taormina. The tour sequence may vary.

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ACTIVITY ATTRIBUTES

Excursion Type:

Scenic & City Tours
Historical Landmarks
Local Food-Wine Tasting

Activity Level:

Image Title
  • 1
    Easy
  • 2
    Moderate
  • 3
    Challenging
Tours with this activity level involve a considerable amount of physical activity such as substantial walking over cobblestone streets, uneven or steep terrain, climbing stairs, or extended periods of standing. Not recommended for guests with physical limitations. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are recommended.
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