Rifugio Sapienza

We were lucky to get the last room at short notice. There aren't many places to stay if you want to sleep close to Etna, so we paid a bit more than we have at other places. Being at the top of the mountain, I guess that was to be expected. The room had a huge balcony where I could smoke freely, and a fabulous shower, much needed after three nights sleeping in the van. The restaurant food was pretty lush too. I had the mixed grill, and it made me Trump all night! Haha. From the top of the mountain, we watched an amazing sunset facing west. We drove a little way down the road to a huge car park, then turned around to face south and saw all of Sicily illuminated. It was late November, and we woke to snow on the ground, freezing weather, and fast-moving fog. Sadly the trip to the top of Etna was cancelled because conditions were so bad. I'd definitely go back.

The rooms are clean and cozy, and dogs are very welcome. It’s a great starting point for hiking up Mt. Etna. The staff are amazing, and the food is delicious. Try the Rifugio Sapienza Pizza, you won’t be disappointed!

The restaurant was an overpriced nightmare, and the staff looked like the crew of Texas Chainsaw Massacre. The triple rooms are tiny and disgusting, not suitable for two kids, let alone three adults. They told us the tracks were open so we’d book two nights, but we had to leave two hours after arriving. When we asked for a refund for the second night, the only answer was “no.” Total crooks. Avoid at all cost.

I’d come back. It’s got what you need for a break or to get ready for a hike, with decent prices and good coffee. I tried the tarta a limone, though, and it wasn’t what I expected, so I wouldn’t recommend it.