Europe’s largest, most active volcano, Mount Etna, reminds us that we are guests here. She is a living thing that morphs according to the latest volcanic activity. The slopes of this “mountain,” which isn’t really a mountain, offer microclimates that give us bold grapes for wine-making, outstanding porcini mushrooms for delectable pasta dishes, apples, pears, tomatoes, pistachios, chestnuts, citrus … countless items that provide sustenance.

Reaching 11,000 feet above sea level into the sky, its four active craters also give us spectacular lava shows (from a distance) that illustrate Mamma Etna’s potency. Etna’s expansive majesty is awe-inspiring for its beauty and its power. Don’t be afraid. She is a somewhat predictable volcano, and walking on her extinct craters and exploring her lava tubes offers a remarkable, nature-powered day.