Around us
Discovering the territory…
Pietra Antica O’ Munti is located in an area rich in beauty, where lush nature provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing holiday while also exploring the wonders and riches of this enchanting corner of Sicily.
Around Us
Discover the Ionian coast: Catania, Taormina and Syracuse.
La pietra antica O’ munti is in Sicily, in Puntalazzo, (a hamlet of Mascali) a small hillside locality at about 650 m above sea level between Etna and Taormina, an area that falls within the Etna Natural Park, eight kilometres from the sea on the eastern Sicilian coast. In the surroundings of La pietra antica O’ munti, or simply from its panoramic terraces or from the facility’s swimming pool, one can enjoy a fabulous panorama: the view sweeps from Taormina to Augusta; on clear days one can even clearly distinguish the Calabrian coast. La pietra antica O’ munti is an excellent starting point for discovering the many pearls of eastern Sicily, including fascinating cities such as Catania, Taormina and Syracuse.
Trails and Trekking on Etna
From La pietra antica O’ munti, the woods and hiking trails of the Etna Natural Park can be reached in no time at all. It takes about forty-five minutes to reach the extinct craters of the volcano (Rifugio Sapienza, Rifugio Citelli and Piano Provenzana), the starting point of many excursions to Etna’s summit craters, and – in the winter season – the base of the ski lifts.
The nearest beaches
The beautiful beaches of Sant’Anna and Riposto are eight kilometres from La pietra antica O’ munti. The fabulous Riviera dei Ciclopi with the mythical stacks of Aci Trezza is about twenty kilometres to the south. The fashionable Taormina and Giardini Naxos are an equivalent distance to the north. In the surrounding area, also not to be missed are the suggestive Alcantara Gorges, 13 km from the agritourism.
Where we recommend you go
If you’re a guest at La Pietra Antica O’ Munti and don’t know where to go, don’t worry! Every morning, during breakfast, you can chat with Nunzia, our expert hostess. With her local knowledge and passion for Sicily, she’ll be happy to recommend the best destinations to visit, adapting to your tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a scenic walk, a cultural visit, or a nature hike, Nunzia will point you in the right direction for you, your group, or your family.
Mount Etna
DISTANCE: 20/40 minutes
INDICATIONS: Proceed first towards Sant’Alfio and then towards Linguaglossa. From Mareneve, choose whether to head to Etna Nord towards the right, or to Etna Sud, towards the left.
Etna is an unmissable destination for those staying at La pietra antica O’munti. Only 20 minutes away, you can explore the nearest sites such as Rifugio Citelli, Serracozzo, Grotta del Ladroni and Bosco di Betulle. Thirty minutes away awaits Etna Nord, where in winter the ski slopes offer a one-of-a-kind experience of skiing amidst the snow-covered landscape while enjoying the view of the sea, while in summer guided tours to the bottoniera allow you to discover the secrets of the ancient eruptions. The Valle del Bove, with its imposing volcanic walls, is a breathtaking area, as is the mysterious Grotta del Gelo, a volcanic cavity with a perennial glacier. Just 40 minutes away, Etna Sud offers the Etna cable car, which takes you to an altitude of 2900m and when possible, up to the central craters, together with specialised guides, where you can enjoy an unforgettable experience amidst smoking craters and breathtaking views. An adventure that mixes nature, sport and science, just a stone’s throw from our hotel.
Catania
DISTANCE: 40 minutes
INDICATIONS: Follow the signs towards Giarre and take the A18 towards Catania.
Only 40 minutes from of La pietra antica O’ munti, Catania is one of the “late Baroque” cities that has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2002 and fascinates with its history and liveliness. Strolling through the famous fish market, you can immerse yourself in the colours and scents of Sicily, an authentic experience not to be missed. Every year in February, the city celebrates the feast of Sant’Agata, an extraordinary event that attracts thousands of believers and tourists. Don’t miss the street food in Via Plebiscito, or the fresh granitas and irresistible arancini in Piazza Duomo. For a cultural visit, explore the Benedictine Monastery, also a perfect place for families with children. Discover the Ursino Castle, where exhibitions and events take place, and the chimneys, which house museums such as the Landing, Cinema and Toy Museums. Catania offers you a perfect mix of tradition, culture and gastronomy, just a few steps from your retreat on Mount Etna.
Hundred Horse Chestnut tree
DISTANCE: 5 minutes
INDICATIONS: Proceed in the direction of Sant’Alfio and follow the signs for Castagno dei Cento Cavalli.
Just 2 kilometres from La pietra antica O’ munti, in Sant’Alfio, is the famous Hundred Horse Chestnut tree. With its 22-metre diameter and 22-metre height, it ranks as one of the oldest trees in Europe and among the largest in the world, a natural spectacle that, according to the most expert botanists, is over 2,000 years old. Legend has it that, during a hunting trip, a queen and her 100 knights found shelter under its branches when they were surprised by a storm. In 2008, UNESCO recognised it as a “World Peace Messenger Monument”. The Etnean poet Carlo Parisi described the chestnut tree evocatively, linking it to the martyr saints Alfio, Cirino and Filadelfo. Just 300 metres from the chestnut tree, in contrada Taverna di Mascali, is also the Castagno della Nave, the second largest tree in Italy, with over 1,000 years of history.
Taormina
DISTANCE: 35 minutes
INDICATIONS: Proceed in the direction of Giarre and take the A18 towards Messina. Exit at the Taormina exit.
Taormina, described as the pearl of the Mediterranean, is only 35 minutes from La pietra antica O’ munti and is located on a natural terrace overlooking the sea. Among the city’s most fascinating sights is the famous Greek Theatre, which offers spectacular views of the sea, the Calabrian coast, Syracuse and Mount Etna. This theatre, still the venue for major cultural events such as the Film Festival, offers a unique experience of history and breathtaking views. In summer, it is the venue for numerous open-air concerts! Corso Umberto, Taormina’s main street, is a charming promenade, full of shops, elegant boutiques and outdoor cafés where you can stop and enjoy the view. Isola Bella, a protected nature reserve, is another must-see, right near Taormina. We recommend a visit to Taormina in the morning for a refreshing lemon granita or in the afternoon for an aperitif, while admiring the breathtaking view over the city and the sea.
Caltagirone
DISTANCE: 90 minutes
INDICATIONS: Proceed in the direction of Giarre and take the A18 towards Catania. Take the exit towards Palermo and continue in the direction of Motta Sant’Anastasia. Continue in the direction of Enna and finally exit at Caltagirone.
Caltagirone, 1.5 hours from La pietra antica O’ munti, is another “late Baroque” city that has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2002 for its splendid Baroque heritage and ceramic tradition. Among the main attractions is the Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte, an architectural marvel of 142 steps decorated with coloured majolica tiles, offering a panoramic view of the city. Caltagirone, which has become famous for its ceramics, has numerous workshops where you can buy typical dishes, vases and handicrafts. Some shops also offer workshops where you can learn the art of ceramics in person. The Ceramics Museum tells the story of this centuries-old tradition. The city is also home to the Cathedral of Caltagirone, an imposing Baroque building that is well worth a visit. Strolling through the historical centre, you will immerse yourself in an authentic Sicily, rich in culture, art and traditions. An excellent destination for those seeking history, art and a unique experience away from the usual tourist routes.
Noto
DISTANCE: 2 hours
INDICATIONS: Proceed in the direction of Giarre and take the A18 towards Catania. Follow the E45 towards SP59 at Noto. Take the exit towards Noto/Police Road from the A18/E45.
Noto, 2 hours from La pietra antica O’munti is also one of Sicily’s Baroque gems and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is famous for its magnificent Baroque architecture, reflected in the elegant squares and churches, such as the Duomo di San Nicolò, with its imposing façade. Strolling along Corso Vittorio Emanuele, you will find yourself immersed in a unique atmosphere, surrounded by historical buildings and artistic details that tell the city’s history. Don’t miss a visit to the Palazzo Nicolaci, another outstanding example of Baroque architecture, famous for its ornate balconies. Noto is also known for its gastronomic culture, with typical dishes that exalt local flavours. Thanks to its beauty and timeless charm, the city is the ideal destination for those wishing to explore authentic Sicily and have an unforgettable experience.