Sotto il Vulcano Trail

The Sotto il Vulcano Trail begins and ends in Francavilla di Sicilia, located in the Messina area of eastern Sicily, with Mount Etna visible to the south. This trail-running event takes place within the Alcantara River Park, on the volcano's northern flank, and features two course options: an 11 km race and a longer route of approximately 25 to 26 km. The longer course includes around 1,300 meters of elevation gain, presenting a true mountain-and-valley challenge rather than a simple countryside run. Etna Trail ASD organizes the event, which is recognized for UTMB Index qualification in Trail XXS and Trail XS categories. The route crosses natural paths, wooded areas, and trails alongside rivers in the Alcantara valley. Participants will see views of Etna, pass by ancient villages, and journey through landscapes of olive groves, vineyards, and the Alcantara gorges, a canyon area known for canyoning. The race is also part of Sicily's off-road running circuit as a stage in the Trail Sicilia Challenge, attracting local trail runners as well as those seeking UTMB Index points or a demanding Sicilian race. Organizers refer to it as an “explosive trail,” a description fitting the volcanic environment and the significant climbing on the longer course.