Il Picciolo Etna Golf Resort & Spa
Il Picciolo Etna Golf Resort & Spa
Il Picciolo Etna Golf Resort & Spa is Italy’s original mountain golf course, a volcanic masterpiece set on the northern slopes of Mount Etna. Designed by Luigi Rota Caremoli and opened in 1989, the course offers an extraordinary blend of natural drama and quiet sophistication. Surrounded by vineyards, lava rock, and chestnut forests, it delivers a round unlike anywhere else in the world — raw, powerful, and deeply connected to Sicily’s landscape.
The layout is carved directly into lava stone, creating striking contrasts of black rock and emerald fairways. Narrow corridors and undulating greens demand precision, while the elevation changes reveal sweeping views of the volcano and the distant sea. Each hole tells a story of resilience and beauty, shaped by nature’s elements yet crafted with purpose and balance. Playing here feels like stepping into the earth’s own design.
Cypress and Salt curates Etna escapes that fuse adventure with indulgence. Guests enjoy stays at the resort’s luxury suites, curated Sicilian dining paired with Etna wines, private vineyard tours, and guided excursions to volcanic trails and historic Taormina. Il Picciolo Etna Golf Resort & Spa is golf elevated to experience — elemental, elegant, and entirely unforgettable.
Course Stats
Par: 72
Yardage: 6,650 yards 6,080 m
Course Rating: 72.8
Slope Rating: 133
Designer: Luigi Rota Caremoli 1989
Type: Mountain Parkland
Signature Holes: 5th par 3 across volcanic rock 9th par 5 descending through vineyards 18th par 4 rising toward clubhouse with Etna backdrop
Championships: Host of Sicilian PGA Championship and professional invitational events
Best Seasons to Play
April to June: Blooming vineyards crisp mountain air perfect visibility
September to October: Harvest season calm winds firm fairways
November to March: Cool climate peaceful play dramatic mountain scenery
Location
