Etna, the charm of the Grotta del Gelo

Etna is the most active volcano in Europe, a destination for the curious, enthusiasts, scholars and simply curious.

Also called Mongibello, Etna is a Sicilian volcano that originated in the Quaternary period and is the highest and most active on the Eurasian plate. Its frequent eruptions, over time, have very often modified the landscape and determined its rise or fall.

In the volcanic landscape there are alternating woods and expanses of lava rock that emerged from the multiple eruptions of Etna. This is one fascinating scenery, thanks also to its notable height which allows you to admire the sea surrounding it, being on an island.

Beneath the ancient lava flows there are hidden ravines created by the flow even at multiple levels underground. For example, on the northern side of Etna, at about 2040 meters above sea level, in the municipality of Randazzo in the province of Catania, is La Grotta del Gelo, a place from unique charm, which has been a destination for hikers, tourists, experts and scientists since the early 70s.

Among these the most famous are the Grotta dei Lamponi, the Grotta Serracozzo, the Grotta dei Tre Livelli and certainly the Frost Cave.

How the Ice Cave was formed

The Grotta del Gelo, in addition to being one of the many lava flow caves present on the volcano, is also the southernmost glacier in Europe, thanks to the temperature that is always maintained below freezing.

Over the years, the accumulation of snow has created various layers of ice and has formed stalactites and stalagmites that sometimes join together to create columns. The cave was once used as a water reserve by local shepherds for their flocks.

The Ice Cave, created during an eruption of 1614 which lasted 10 years and poured down the northern side of the volcano, is 125 meters long and was discovered, like other flow caves, when part of the cave's roof collapsed creating an entrance. The best seasons to visit are spring and summer, since in winter the snow hides the opening.

Grotta del Gelo, how to get there

You can get to the Ice Cave from Mareneve Street, through a 23 km long rugged path for a duration of about 8 hours, round trip. The route can also reach a difference in altitude of 600 meters.

It is advisable to be well equipped and trained to visit it, because the lava flows to climb make the path difficult, even if the view of the cave totally repays the effort required to reach it.

How to visit the Ice Cave

To reach the Grotta del Gelo it is possible to book organized excursions with a guide, which can be consulted and booked on the web, which offer various solutions starting from a cost, per person, starting from 50 euros for adults and 45 for children under 12 years old.