Etna & Sea: Pic Nic in Batia

Travelers eager to experience Sicily’s volcanic beauty paired with authentic local flavors will find the Etna & Sea: Pic Nic in Batia tour a delightful choice. While I haven’t personally taken this exact experience, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-organized, intimate outing that marries scenic vistas with culinary delights.

What makes this tour stand out are three key features: the chance to relax amid lush landscape while enjoying a homemade Sicilian picnic, the stunning views of Mount Etna paired with the sea, and the opportunity to explore an historic farm and gardens. One possible consideration? It’s a shorter experience—around two hours—so if you’re craving a full-day adventure with guides, you might look elsewhere. But for those seeking a peaceful, flavorful escape, this will tick many boxes. It’s perfect for travelers who love authentic local experiences, scenic views, and a break from busy sightseeing.

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Key Points

Authentic Sicilian cuisine featuring homemade specialties and km0 products
Stunning panoramic views of Mount Etna and the sea
Relaxing outdoor experience with blankets, pillows, and farm visits
Focus on local wines with a bottle of Etna wine included for every two guests
Accessible and flexible booking with free cancellation and pay later options
Ideal for couples, small groups, and those seeking tranquility in nature

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Looking for more options in Catania? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Setting the Scene: A Unique Green Location at Batia

Located at the foot of Mount Etna, Batia offers a lush, verdant setting perfect for unwinding and appreciating Sicilian nature. The experience begins with meeting at an indoor parking lot, leading you into a peaceful farm environment. As the tour unfolds, you’ll have the freedom to explore the farm, including a romantic rose garden with over 300 varieties of roses and a Sensory Garden filled with aromatic and medicinal plants.

The grounds also feature a historic Palmento and wine cellar dating back to the 1800s, adding a touch of history to your leisurely visit. The farm’s ambiance is a big part of what makes this experience special — quiet, green, and infused with the scents of spices and blooming flowers.

The Picnic: Simple, Fresh, and Local

What sets this picnic apart is the focus on homemade specialties and km0 (zero kilometers) products. Expect a delicious basket filled with homemade Sicilian bread, cured meats, and cheeses, all crafted with local ingredients. The inclusion of a bottle of Etna wine per two guests adds a celebratory note, perfect for sipping while soaking in the views.

The setup is thoughtfully designed to maximize comfort — blankets and pillows are provided, along with glasses, plates, and cutlery, so you can relax without fuss. Reviewers like Chiara highlight how “super recommended” this experience is, describing it as “a relaxing moment in a little piece of paradise.”

The Views: Mount Etna and the Sea

One of the main attractions is the breathtaking vista of Mount Etna alongside the azure sea. While the weather can influence visibility—some guests mention clouds obscuring the view—the scenery is generally spectacular. You’ll be encouraged to capture photos and share the experience, with many finding the picturesque setting perfect for Instagram-worthy shots.

Even on cloudy days, the charm remains. The combination of volcanic landscape, lush gardens, and the distant seascape creates a memorable backdrop for your picnic.

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Visiting the Farm and Gardens

Beyond the picnic, you’re free to wander through the farm’s rose garden, which has more than 500 types of roses, or explore the medicinal and aromatic plants in the Sensory Garden. These areas add an element of discovery and appreciation for local flora, making the experience educational as well as relaxing.

The wine cellar and Palmento offer a glimpse into Sicily’s rich agricultural history, connecting you with the land’s traditions. This is a nice touch, especially for those interested in regional wine-making history.

There's plenty more to explore in Catania

Practical Details: What To Expect

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with flexible start times—check availability for specific slots.
You’re provided with everything needed for a comfortable picnic, including blankets, pillows, glasses, plates, and cutlery.
The experience is wheelchair accessible and suitable for those with mobility considerations.
No guided tour is included, so the focus remains on relaxation and personal exploration.
Transportation to the farm isn’t included but can be arranged upon request, which is handy if you’re not renting a car.
Booking is flexible: cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later.

What Reviewers Say

Guests consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable staff and the overall quality of the experience. GetYourGuide traveler describes it as “beautiful and qualified,” noting that the food and wine exceeded expectations. Chiara called it “a very relaxing experience in a little corner of paradise,” emphasizing how peaceful and enjoyable the setting was.

Many also appreciate the informal, unhurried pace, which makes it ideal for couples or small groups looking for a scenic, culinary break without the bustle of larger tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a quiet, scenic oasis with excellent local food and wine. It suits romantic couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers eager for a taste of Sicilian hospitality in a tranquil farm setting. If you enjoy botanical gardens and historic wine cellars, the farm visit will be a bonus.

However, if you’re after a full-day guided adventure or hiking around Mount Etna, this shorter, more relaxed outing might not satisfy your craving for an active volcano trek.

Final Thoughts: Why It’s a Great Choice

Authentic, scenic, and relaxed — this picnic experience offers a slice of Sicilian life away from the crowds. The combination of stunning views, delicious homemade food, and local wines makes it a fulfilling, memorable outing.

If you love beautiful gardens, regional wines, and a peaceful setting, this tour is a charming way to spend a couple of hours at the foot of Mount Etna. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate slow, quality experiences over adrenaline or large group tours.

While it might not satisfy those seeking intense volcano hikes, it offers an authentic taste of Sicily’s beauty and flavors in a beautifully designed environment. Overall, it’s a charming, well-curated experience that delivers excellent value for anyone eager to relax and indulge in Sicily’s natural and culinary treasures.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, transportation isn’t included but can be arranged upon request. You’ll need to organize your own way to the farm.

How long is the tour?
The activity lasts approximately 2 hours, but check specific start times when booking.

Is the experience suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking around the farm and gardens. Outdoor attire is recommended.

Can I visit the farm and gardens freely?
Yes, part of the experience includes free access to visit the farm, rose garden, and sensory garden.

What is included in the picnic basket?
The basket features homemade specialties, homemade bread, cured meats, cheeses, and a bottle of Etna wine for every two guests, along with mineral water and necessary tableware.

Are there vegetarian options?
The description highlights cured meats and cheeses, but you might find vegetarian options or request alternatives when booking.

Can I cancel this experience?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed, outdoor nature suggests it could be suitable for families with older children, especially those interested in gardens and local food.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can affect the scenic views; however, the experience can be canceled or rescheduled with full refund if needed.

In summary, the Etna & Sea: Pic Nic in Batia offers a genuine taste of Sicilian life with minimal fuss. It’s a peaceful, scenic, and delicious way to enjoy some of Sicily’s finest local produce, wines, and landscapes—perfect for a relaxing half-day away from the usual tourist hustle.