Experiencing Golf on a Lively Volcano: A Guide for Your Adventure

Nestled in the heart of eastern Sicily, 2000ft above sea level, lies the picturesque Picciolo Etna Golf Resort & Spa. This boutique hotel and golf course offers a unique blend of precision-driven golf and quintessential Sicilian experiences.

The resort, now a part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, has undergone an £18 million renovation over the past five years. The transformation has extended to the clubhouse, hotel, golf course, and a new collection of private villas, ensuring a luxurious stay for all guests.

The 18-hole golf course is a challenge for even the most seasoned golfers, requiring precision and patience. The driver rarely comes into play, as the course's design emphasizes strategy and finesse. The 10th hole, a 200-yard par 3, is a particular highlight, with Mount Etna serving as the direct backdrop. The course conditions are well-maintained, with fast and true greens and well-presented fairways.

Off the course, the resort provides a variety of experiences for both golfers and non-golfers alike. Guests can embark on a guided hike up the foothills of Etna, Europe's most active volcano standing at 11,000ft above sea level. For wine enthusiasts, a local vineyard tour is available, offering a taste of Sicily's rich wine culture.

The food at Picciolo Etna Golf Resort & Spa is a culinary delight. The menu is plentiful, fresh, and beautifully curated, with options like meat platters, fresh pasta, and a wide selection of wines. The newly renovated rooms offer a sense of privacy and tranquility, with private verandas overlooking a local vineyard and Mount Etna.

The resort boasts 100 rooms (including suites, deluxe rooms, and rooms in the clubhouse), two outdoor pools, and a recently renovated spa. The luxury spa includes a heated pool with hydromassage, a Finnish sauna, a Turkish bath, six private treatment cabins, and more, providing the perfect relaxation after a day of golf or exploration.

The Picciolo Etna Golf Resort & Spa is an hour's ride from Catania airport on the southeast of the island, up the curvy coastal and mountain roads. Nearby towns of Savoca and Taormina are worth visiting, offering picturesque streets, excellent restaurants, and bars. The resort's location ensures that Mount Etna's peak is a regular sight during golfing, adding an unparalleled level of beauty to the experience.

Savoca is famed for its role in the first Godfather movie, while Taormina was the setting for season two of HBO's The White Lotus. These towns, along with the resort itself, offer a unique blend of history, culture, and luxury, making Picciolo Etna Golf Resort & Spa a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking an unforgettable Sicilian experience.