We spent two nights in Taormina which allowed for a rest day for those who wanted to explore the town or simply to have time off the bikes. On this occasion however, most people opted to ride to Mount Etna and then to take the cable car and buses to the top where special guides take parties to nearby fumaroles designated as safe to approach.
Mary and I had done this trip the year before but I did elect to ride up the mountain and enjoy the picnic lunch the guides prepared for us in the car park where one catches the cable cars up the mountain. The roads were enjoyable with nice views, dominated by glimpses of the higher slopes of Etna as we got climbed higher. Our route took us first to the northern slopes of Etna for the ride and views, then round to the south to reach the cable car station.
As we climbed the slopes of the mountain, the temperature dropped quite considerably and as usual, atop the mountain, it was darned cold with a strong wind, according to the folk who went up - just like last year!
Love that final shot Chris.
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