Etna Countryside Food & Wine Lovers Tour (Small Group or Private)

If you’re looking to combine scenic beauty, delicious food, and memorable wine experiences, the Etna Countryside Food & Wine Lovers Tour offers a fantastic way to spend a day in Sicily. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a well-rounded, authentic look at the region’s culinary treasures. With a small-group size or private option, it’s perfect for anyone wanting a more intimate experience with knowledgeable guides.

Three things really stand out to us about this tour: its focus on local, family-run wineries, the variety of tastings from cheeses to wines, and the scenic stops through charming Sicilian villages. The only thing to consider is that the tour doesn’t include pickups from Messina or Catania, which might require extra planning if you’re staying outside Taormina. Overall, it’s ideal for food and wine lovers eager to explore Sicily’s countryside and enjoy a relaxed, immersive day.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Visits to family-run wineries and a historic farmhouse make this tour genuine and memorable.
• Scenic Drive: The route through scenic villages offers plenty of great photo opportunities and insights into Sicilian culture.
• Inclusive Tastings: All food and wine samples, including local cheeses, salami, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes, are included.
• Small Group Advantage: Limited to 8 guests, ensuring personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.
• Flexible Options: Choose between small-group or private tours to suit your preference or budget.
• Convenient: Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, streamlining the day and removing logistical worries.

Why This Tour Works

The Etna Countryside Food & Wine Lovers Tour offers an excellent opportunity to step off the beaten path and truly enjoy Sicily’s culinary scene. The focus on local family-run wineries means you’re getting a taste of authentic Sicilian wine-making traditions rather than mass-produced bottles. This adds a layer of sincerity and flavor you won’t find in larger, more commercial tours.

The tour’s 6-hour duration strikes a good balance—long enough to relax and savor each stop, but not so packed that it feels rushed. The price point of approximately $185 per person is quite reasonable considering it includes all tastings, transportation, and a guided experience. Many reviewers have noted that the value for money is high, especially given that all food and drink are covered, and the small group size ensures a more personal touch.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Pickup and Scenic Drive

Starting from Taormina, the tour kicks off at 10 a.m. with a hotel pickup in a Mercedes minivan. Small groups are limited to 8 guests, which helps keep the experience intimate. The ride through Sicilian villages is as much a part of the experience as the stops themselves—think charming lava-stone houses, winding roads, and panoramic views of Etna’s vineyards.

Guests have noted how the guides share charming stories about Sicilian culture and traditions during the drive. One reviewer mentioned that their guide, Giovanni, was “very nice and informative,” making the journey as engaging as the stops.

Stop 1: Mount Etna and First Winery

The first major stop is at a family-run winery. Here, you’re greeted with a glass of cool white wine before touring the cellars. This is where you get a sense of Sicilian wine craftsmanship—many reviews mention how knowledgeable the guides are about the local wines and their production process. Following the tour, you’ll enjoy a tasting of five glasses of Etna wine, paired with locally produced cheeses, salami, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes.

Multiple reviews highlight how the wine tasting is a highlight, with many saying the wines are of excellent quality, including a mix of white, rosé, and red. One reviewer noted, “The wine was absolutely amazing,” emphasizing how the scenery and wine pairing create a memorable tasting.

Stop 2: The Old Farmhouse and Lunch

The second stop is at an antique restaurant and farmhouse, where the focus is on hearty Sicilian food. The organic Etna products lunch is described as delicious and generous, with many praising the homey atmosphere and authentic flavors. The meal is accompanied by more wine, as well as pastries and liquors for those interested in sweet local treats.

Reviewers consistently mention how well-presented the food is and the high quality of the local ingredients. One reviewer said the restaurant was “fabulous,” and others appreciated the copious amounts of wine that made the experience both fun and relaxing.

Village Stops and Scenic Views

Driving through Sicilian villages provides excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate local architecture. Guests often remark on the charming lava-stone houses and panoramic views of the vineyards on Etna’s slopes. These stops also enrich the understanding of Sicily’s cultural tapestry, adding depth to the wine and food tasting.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, especially highlighting Giovanni and Orazio for their friendly demeanor and wealth of information. One reviewer called Giovanni “an excellent guide,” while another said Orazio was “so welcoming and informative,” making the entire trip a memorable experience.

Many emphasize the stunning scenery — whether it’s the vineyards, the villages, or Mount Etna itself. Several mention how the food quality exceeded expectations, with “beautifully presented and great quality” dishes.

While most reviews are glowing, a few note that the wine quality at the second winery may be less impressive compared to other Etna vineyards. One guest said, “The actual wine tasted was insipid,” but still found the tour worthwhile overall, especially for the informative guide and ambiance.

Transportation and Practical Details

The Mercedes Minivan transportation ensures a comfortable ride, especially since the tour is about 6 hours long. Pickup is offered from Taormina, making for a hassle-free start, but if you’re staying in Messina or Catania, there’s a $100 surcharge to arrange pickups in those areas.

The tour operates at a small group limit of 8 guests, which allows for more personal interaction and flexibility. The timing (starting at 10 a.m.) gives ample opportunity to enjoy a relaxed day without feeling rushed.

If you’re vegetarian, the tour offers a vegetarian option, and reviewers confirm that the guide is happy to accommodate dietary needs.

Is It Worth the Price?

At just under $185, this tour offers a lot for the money—all tastings, food, wine, transportation, and guide services are included. The reviews suggest that the quality of the food and wine is high, and the small-group format ensures a more intimate, personalized experience.

Comparing this to other wine tours or food experiences in Sicily, it offers good value especially considering the authenticity and relaxed pace. Whether you’re a wine novice or a connoisseur, the local insights and scenic stops make it a worthwhile investment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food and wine enthusiasts eager to explore Sicily’s local flavors. It’s also well-suited for travelers who prefer a small, intimate group or a private tour for a more tailored experience. If you’re interested in learning about Sicilian wine-making while enjoying stunning scenery and hearty food, this tour checks all the boxes.

It’s also an excellent choice if you want a relaxed, scenic day without logistical hassles, thanks to hotel pickup and drop-off. However, if you’re staying outside Taormina or in Messina/Catania, be prepared for the additional surcharge or plan accordingly.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you’re staying in the Taormina area, making the experience much more convenient.

Can I book a private tour?
Absolutely. The tour offers a private option, perfect for couples, families, or small groups wanting a more personalized experience.

What foods are included?
All food samples are included, such as cheeses, salami, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, pastries, and local liquors, making for a generous tasting experience.

What wines will I taste?
You’ll sample five glasses of Etna wine, including white, pink, and red varieties, produced by a family-run winery.

Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, vegetarian options are available. Just be sure to advise at the time of booking.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, transportation is in a Mercedes Minivan, designed for comfort during the approximately 6-hour journey.

The Etna Countryside Food & Wine Lovers Tour stands out as a genuine, well-organized way to experience Sicily’s culinary and scenic delights. With knowledgeable guides, authentic local stops, and inclusive tastings, it offers both value and a chance to truly connect with the region’s traditions.

It’s best suited for those who love good food, fine wines, and scenic drives through charming villages. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting an authentic taste of Sicily, this tour delivers a relaxed, informative, and delicious day that you won’t soon forget.