If you are looking for alternative and not too complicated itineraries on Etna, today we will take you to discover “Monte Manfré”, in the territory of Belpasso, that is, on the southern flank of the volcano. On this side there are many old cones derived from fractures and eruptions that have remained unique, a sign among other things of the “path of Mount Etna”. Our volcano, in fact, was born in the sea in front of Aci Trezza and then moved to its current position over the course of hundreds of thousands of years. The landscape here is shaded by oaks and larche-pines, offering routes of particular beauty.
From Belpasso to Mount Manfré
The route begins from the outskirts of the town of Belpasso, at an altitude of 520 m above sea level. This town offers one of the most beautiful and spectacular views of the summit craters of Mount Etna. The historic center, in particular, allows you to admire the volcano among bell towers made of lava stone and delicious cafes where one of the best granitas in Sicily is served!
After a delicious breakfast, so, we set off towards Mount Manfré (1460 m above sea level). Along the 14 km of the trail you will be able to see how the landscape gradually changes, not only leaving behind the urbanized areas but also admiring the surroundings as they become cultivated countryside, uncultivated fields, woods, ancient lava flows.
Among the small and big wonders that can be admired along the way, “l’Ampudda di Piscitello”, in memory of a water stream erased by the eruption of 1669, the Terrace of the Queen and the Grotto Angela. Before reaching the top, around 1350 meters, you will also come across a small refuge.
Discovering Mount Manfré
This ancient crater is almost completely covered in chestnuts, oaks, beechs and walnut trees, as well as pines and the inevitable broom. You can climb it by following a simple path, of medium-low difficulty, also enriched by a typically local fauna: it will not be difficult, in fact, to meet foxes, dormice, and birds of prey (falcons but also eagles) flying in the sky. In the evening, these woods are the kingdom of owls.
Once you reach the top of the crater you will also find a… surprise! A deep ditch, perhaps a reminder of the ancient eruptive crack, today filled with a grove of poplars!
Not far from Mount Manfré you can visit its “twin” crater, Mount Sona. This hill, formed around the year 1000, is easier to climb and in fact is a destination for those who want to spend even just an afternoon in nature. Perfect also for families with children, it is characterized by imposing centuries-old chestnut trees and suggestive lava formations.
How to reach Monte Manfrè
Starting from Belpasso you can reach the refuge path by car, following the Provincial Road 120. Going up from the Provincial Road 92 instead you shall take the path 786B – continuation of the 786 – to reach the crater on foot. Going around Mount Manfré and also crossing some of the 1983 lava flows you can continue until you reach Refuge Ariel, in the territory of Ragalna, near another very famous path, that of the Bosco Filiciusa Milia.
(PHOTOS BY GRAZIA MUSUMECI)
News taken from: https://www.unescoparcoetna.it/sentieri/belpasso-monte-manfre-pista-701/ and from https://www.etnafriends.it/sentieri.php?s=37 .