Historic Taormina & The Wines of Mt. Etna

Perched near the northeastern tip of Sicily between mountain cliffs and the Ionian Sea is the island’s most famous seaside resort, Taormina. Looking out to the edge of town, you can see the columns of an ancient Greek theater that is still used for
summer concerts. Turn and look inland, there looming in the distance is the snow-capped volcano Mount Etna exhaling a plume of white steam. Etna is a region of extremes: vineyards planted on 45‐degree‐slopes, rocky soil that ought to be impossible to farm, unpredictable weather and of course, that volcano. But despite the odds and according to such publications as Wine Spectator, Wine Enthusiast and FOOD & WINE, Etna is one of Italy’s hottest wine regions and its wines are simply– please forgive the pun – erupting all over the wine scene.

From the pier, board your motor coach for a short drive along the coastline to Taormina. Considered to be one of Sicily’s most beautiful spots, your guide will lead you on a walking tour while illustrating the highlights of this medieval enclave featuring the exterior of the beautiful Cathedral, the Palazzo Corvaia and the Odeon. After a visit of the Greek Theatre, your guided tour will end with a stroll through Corso Umberto (the shopping area) where you will have some time on your own. At the predetermined time, meet the group back at the motor coach to continue your tour with the ascent up the slopes of the volcano Etna.Along the way you will learn about the Etna DOC and its unique terroir.

Upon arrival at the cellar doors of the Villagrande Estate, a member of the winery team will welcome you with a glass of wine. The estate has been making wine on the slopes of Mt. Etna for ten generations. You will be also treated to a short demonstration of traditional Sicilian folk music. Afterwards, enjoy a four-course Sicilian lunch paired with four of their finest wines. You can walk off your meal during a tour of the underground wine cellar before boarding the motorcoach for the drive back to the ship.

Registration Form

Download Optional Shore Tour Registration Form

Per Person Price: $269.00

Tour Includes: English‐speaking guide, transportation, bottled water on the bus, all entrance, tour & tasting fees, lunch served with wine and all local taxes.

Not Included: Gratuities for guide and driver and all items of a personal nature.

Activity Level: Medium - extensive walking, at times over uneven surfaces and inclines. Tour is not wheelchair accessible and not advised for people with mobility issues.

Note: Times and providers are subject to change.

Travel Insurance: F&WT highly encourages protecting your travel investment in case of an emergency requiring you to cancel your trip. Your F&WT’s Travel Advisor can assist you with procuring the appropriate coverage. Please make sure to read the cancellation policy on the registration form outlining our cancellation policy