If you’ve ever dreamed of golfing at the base of an active volcano, welcome to Pìcciolo Etna Golf Resort!
This spot in Sicily delivered everything we didn’t know we needed, wild lava rock fairways, spa chillouts, crispy pasta dishes, and some of the most scenic golf holes we’ve ever played.
Here's the lowdown on our trip, broken down into what really matters, the golf, the hotel vibes, and everything in between.
Key Takeaways
If you don't have the time to read the full blog post about our stay, here are the main things you should know about The Pìcciolo Etna Golf Resort.
- The scenery was epic, you’re literally golfing on a volcano with lava rocks, mountain views, and Etna in the background the whole round.
- The course was tough, The first few holes are playable, but the back nine gets tight and technical.
- The resort is perfect for stay-and-play because the hotel is right next to the course, so you can go from tee to spa in 3 minutes flat.
- The spa is great they have a sauna, steam room, emotional showers, jacuzzi and even a cold plunge for ideal post-round recovery.
- The staff is super welcoming, huge thanks to Gabriele and the crew, they made us feel right at home.
- Perfect for a golf trip with the boys (or even a sneaky couples retreat if you’re feeling romantic).
But if you would like to see us play all 18 holes at the course, here is the full video on our YouTube channel.
The Golf Course ⛳
Course
The Pìcciolo Etna Golf Club is the first 18-hole course ever built in Sicily, and it's carved right into the slopes of Mount Etna.
That means the entire thing is literally built on lava flow. And you feel it. Bunkers are made of volcanic rock. Fairways run through wild, hilly terrain. And the views? Unreal.
The first few holes give you some breathing room, but by hole 6 it tightens up fast. You’ll need to hit fairways if you want to score, which we totally did. Minus 6, baby.
Clubhouse & Practice Area
Before our round, we hit up the driving range for a super quick warm-up (okay, 10 minutes max, don’t judge, we were late).
The range is solid, with views that make shanking a 7-iron feel kind of majestic. The putting green, and dedicated chipping and bunker zones are also great.
The clubhouse itself is clean, laid-back, and super friendly, shoutout to golf director Gabrielle for the warm welcome and tips on how not to lose a dozen balls on the back nine.
Gear & Vibes
Their rentals were crazy, we got the new TaylorMade Qi35 and the Ping G430 sets, safe to say that if we shot a bad score, it would not have been a setup issue.
And a quick side note if you're visiting, you can also get fitted for the newest TaylorMade and Ping clubs on their TrackMan setup, which we were also playing for hours.
The Hotel 🏨
After a hot round (literally it was pushing 40°C), we got to fully unwind at the Pìcciolo Etna Resort. The transition from fairway to five-star comfort couldn’t be smoother.
The hotel is right next to the course, which is always a massive plus in our books. Walk off 18, hop in the lagoon, yes not pool, lagoon. Say less.
Rooms
We stayed in one of the resort’s classic rooms, and it was exactly what we needed: super clean, modern Italian vibes, comfy beds, and ice-cold AC.
The resort offers a bunch of room types (including suites if you’re feeling boujee), and everything is surrounded by gardens and Etna views.
Pool & Wellness
This is where the place really levels up. There’s a full-on outdoor lagoon surrounded by chill loungers, plus an indoor spa that’s low-key a must after 18 holes.
We hit the jacuzzi, sauna, and even a quick session in the emotional showers (don’t worry, it’s just fancy lights and mist, no therapy required).
If you want to go full detox mode, you can also book massages and treatments through their wellness center.
Gym
We didn’t plan on hitting the gym, but after a few rounds of burgers, pizzas and lava rock adventures, we had to give it a go.
The gym is clean, quiet, and well-equipped, free weights, cardio machines, and everything you need for a solid session, and the best part is that it is never packed.
Food
You already know we ate good. The on-site Il Palmento restaurant mixes Sicilian tradition with fresh local ingredients, think home made pastas, seafood, and wild local wines.
After the round, we refueled with pizzas on the terrace, and life just felt right. They also serve a massive breakfast buffet, which hits even harder in your pre-game.
Final Thoughts
Between the epic views, challenging holes, and full chill-mode spa, the Pìcciolo Etna Golf Resort is easily one of our favorite golf getaways we’ve done in Europe so far.
And the fact that you’re playing in the literal shadow of Mount Etna? That’s just bonus content.
If you're planning a golf trip in 2026, definitely put Sicily, and this place, on your list. The resort, the course, and the staff all crushed it.
Ratings
★★★★☆ (9/10)
“The setup here is kind of perfect. Super peaceful, great food, and everything’s walking distance. Just a few more breakfast options and it's a 10.”
★★★★★ (9.5/10)
“One of the most memorable golf trips I’ve had. Course was pure, the volcano vibes were wild, and the whole place just feels special. Almost too good.”
