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Rifugio Sapienza

On the slopes and steps from Etna Cable Car

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Quadruple Room | Premium bedding, down comforters, minibar, in-room safe
Premium bedding, down comforters, minibar, in-room safe
Premium bedding, down comforters, minibar, in-room safe
Free daily buffet breakfast
Reception

Reviews

8.8 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Bar
  • Pet friendly
  • Breakfast included
  • Room service
  • Parking included
  • Housekeeping

Explore the area

Map
Piazzale Rifugio Sapienza, Nicolosi, CT, 95030
  • Etna Cable Car
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Silvestri Craters
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Mount Etna
    ‪18 min drive‬
  • Catania (CTA-Fontanarossa)
    ‪43 min drive‬

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Room options

View all photos for Classic Single Room

Classic Single Room | Bathroom | Shower, bidet, towels

Classic Single Room

  • Mountain view
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed

View all photos for Quadruple Room

Quadruple Room | Premium bedding, down comforters, minibar, in-room safe

Quadruple Room

  • Sea view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Double Bed and 2 Twin Beds OR 4 Twin Beds

View all photos for Twin Room (2 Single Beds)

Twin Room (2 Single Beds) | Premium bedding, down comforters, minibar, in-room safe

Twin Room (2 Single Beds)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Sea view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 2 Twin Beds

View all photos for Triple Room

Triple Room | Premium bedding, down comforters, minibar, in-room safe

Triple Room

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(2 reviews)
  • Mountain view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 3 Twin Beds

View all photos for Family Room

Premium bedding, down comforters, minibar, in-room safe

Family Room

  • Mountain view
  • Sleeps 5
  • 1 Double Bed and 3 Twin Beds

View all photos for Double Room

Double Room | Premium bedding, down comforters, minibar, in-room safe

Double Room

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(2 reviews)
  • Mountain view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Double Bed

About the neighborhood

Nicolosi

Rifugio Sapienza places you next to Etna Cable Car and within a 10-minute stroll of other popular attractions like Silvestri Craters. This 22-room inn has conveniences like free breakfast, ski-in/ski-out access, and free in-room WiFi.
View more Inns in NicolosiOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Etna Cable Car - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Silvestri Craters - 8 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Monte Nero Zappini Nature Trail - 8 min drive - 1.9 miles
  • Mount Etna - 18 min drive - 8.6 miles
  • Etnaland - 36 min drive - 18.5 miles

Getting around

  • Catania Ognina Station - 38 min drive
  • Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) - 73 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Funivia dell'Etna - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪La Terrazza dell'Etna - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Ristorante Parco dei Principi - ‬25 min drive
  • ‪La Boscaiola - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪Santa Rita Garden - ‬24 min drive

About this property

Rifugio Sapienza

On the slopes and steps from Etna Cable Car
Guests of Rifugio Sapienza enjoy features like ski-in/ski-out access, free WiFi in public areas, and meeting rooms. There's free parking, and an airport shuttle (available on request) for EUR 100 per vehicle one-way. Front-desk staff can assist with securing valuables, tours or tickets, and luggage storage. Other amenities at this ski inn include a library and a terrace.
Flat-screen TVs come with satellite channels, and guests can stay connected with free WiFi. Beds are dressed in premium bedding and down comforters, and bathrooms offer bidets. Minibars, safes, and desks are other standard amenities.
Recreational amenities at the inn include ski-in/ski-out access.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Languages

English, French, Italian, Spanish

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Hotel Primavera dell'Etna

  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Restaurant
  • Air conditioning
8.0 out of 10, Very Good, 35 reviews
Hotel Primavera dell'Etna

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Roundtrip airport shuttle (surcharge) from 7:30 AM to 11:00 PM on request
  • Free self parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Food and drink

  • Free buffet breakfast available daily 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM
  • A bar/lounge
  • A coffee shop/cafe
  • A restaurant
  • Snack bar/deli

Things to do

  • Bicycle rentals
  • Library
  • Shopping
  • Ski-in/ski-out access

Family friendly

  • Crib (surcharge)
  • Snack bar/deli

Conveniences

  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Business services

  • Meeting rooms

Outdoors

  • In the mountains
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Elevator
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path to elevator
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk

More

  • Smoke-free property

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Crib (surcharge)
  • Down comforter
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Bidet
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • Flat-screen TV with satellite channels

Food and drink

  • Minibar
  • Room service

More

  • Desk
  • Safe

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3 PM; Check-in end time: 11:00 PM
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10 AM

Special check-in instructions

This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply); guests must contact the property with arrival details before travel, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
The front desk is open daily from 7:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
If you are planning to arrive after 10:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for EUR 20 per pet, per stay
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Cribs/infant beds are available for EUR 10.00 per night

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay these charges at the property:

  • A tax is imposed by the city: EUR 1.00 per person, per night

These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Airport shuttle fee: EUR 100 per vehicle (one-way, maximum occupancy 5)
  • Pet fee: EUR 20 per pet, per stay
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Crib (infant bed) fee: EUR 10.00 per night

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
Cashless transactions are available
  • Check-in: 3 PM
  • Check-out: 10 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is available during limited hours. For convenient arrivals and departures, you can take advantage of the airport shuttle (available during limited hours), which is offered for a fee. Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Upon check-in, all guests, including children, must be present to show their passport or government-issued photo ID.
  • Due to national regulations, cash transactions can't exceed EUR 5000 at this property. For additional details, contact the property using the contact information on your booking confirmation.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

Property is also known as

Rifugio Sapienza Inn Nicolosi
Rifugio Sapienza Inn
Rifugio Sapienza Nicolosi
Rifugio Sapienza
Rifugio Sapienza Nicolosi, Italy - Sicily
Rifugio Sapienza Inn
Rifugio Sapienza Nicolosi
Rifugio Sapienza Inn Nicolosi

Frequently asked questions

Is a free cancellation option available at Rifugio Sapienza?

Rifugio Sapienza provides free cancellation on select room rates. If you'd like to learn more, take a look at the cancellation policy on our site.

What can I see near Rifugio Sapienza?

This inn is located in Nicolosi, just steps from Etna Cable Car and Monti Silvestri Lift, and within a short walk of Silvestri Craters. Monte Nero Zappini Nature Trail is also within a driving distance of 3 mi.

Will I be able to park at Rifugio Sapienza?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the inn. Accessible parking is also available for guests.

Does Rifugio Sapienza include a casino at the property?

No, Rifugio Sapienza doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Rifugio Sapienza?

No, there is no indoor pool at this inn.

Is Rifugio Sapienza good for couples?

There are plenty of amenities for couples at this inn, including a bar, a restaurant, and ski-in/out access.

Are there hot tubs at Rifugio Sapienza?

No, this inn doesn't have a spa tub.

Does Rifugio Sapienza have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

Yes, Rifugio Sapienza serves free buffet breakfast each morning from its restaurant.

Does Rifugio Sapienza allow pets to stay for free?

Although they can't stay for free, pets are welcome at Rifugio Sapienza for a fee of EUR 20 per pet, per stay.

Are there connecting rooms at Rifugio Sapienza?

No, this inn doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

Where is the closest airport to Rifugio Sapienza?

The closest major airport to Rifugio Sapienza is Fontanarossa Airport (CTA), which is 29.6 mi away (73 minutes by car).

Can I book a room with a balcony at Rifugio Sapienza?

No, you won't find guestrooms with balconies at Rifugio Sapienza.

Rifugio Sapienza Reviews

Reviews

8.8

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 66 out of 145 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 63 out of 145 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 12 out of 145 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 145 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 145 reviews

8.6/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Staff & service

8.2/10

Amenities

8.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.0/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Dominic

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very friendly and helpful too.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

Binh

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carmen

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Great customer service, staff super friendly and helpful, room was very comfortable and had everything needed, good location and restaurant food was superb. Highly recommended.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kyeongmo

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
The refugio was very good for the travellers. It was clean and dining was good. The staff was kind ans helpful.
Stayed 1 night in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gary

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Wybo

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Rifugio Sapienza had everything we could hope for. Nice room, great restaurant, a super breakfast each day, and the best location for exploring Mount Etna!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Antonino

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very friendly people, very hospitable. The room is comfortable. The food at the restaurant was delicious. We enjoyed our stay
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Robi

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Highly recommend, great experience with the hotel

We had a lovely time in Rifugio Sapienza, excelent location, right next to the cable car to Etna, good food and large portions, lots of choice also for breakfast. Room was clean and has comfortable beds, large balcony. Highly recommend!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Bernhard

Stayed 1 night in May 2022

8/10 Good

Gillian

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities

Solid hotel choice

Pros: Great value for the location, decent food choices, friendly staff, free on site parking Cons: Our room had a slanted ceiling and I hit my head on it constantly (and I’m 5’4). Cleanliness of shower could be improved.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Tricia

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Great little hotel with amazing views and very professional and friendly staff. Good restaurant specialising in pizza. Would stay again!
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2020

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Amenities
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2019

2/10 Terrible

Melissa

Traveled with family

Get insurance

I had to cancel due to losing my luggage on the airplane there. We had two nights and I was able to cancel a day ahead due to being stranded in the layover country. They refused to even let me cancel for the 2nd night.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Excellent option if you want to visit the Volcano area. Convenient and the best you get a discount for the cable car
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2019

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2019

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
You get to sleep on an active volcano, at 2000 meter altitude. What more do you need/can you ask for?
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Michael

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Service very good. Rooms simple but clean. Perfect for hiking Mt. Etna. A few good restaurants nearby.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2019

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
The hotel is quite old but there is not much choice if you want to stay overnight at Etna. It is an ok hotel for a night or two. We were two friends staying in a room with a double and a twin bed and it was ok for us. Room is quite small. Breakfast was buffet style with croissants, yoghurt, eggs, meat and cheese on offer.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
The staff. they were the most accommodating and friendly staff i have ever had the pleasure to stay with. they would do things for customers using initiative before being asked. always smiling and joking too. The volcano and scenery (best ever seen) comes second to these people.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Great room and service and restaurant. Super close to cable car. Get here by car or morning bus from Catania.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2019

10/10 Excellent

antonio

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

A good choice up there!

The rooms are clean and cosy, very comfortable bed, soft towels in the bathroom, staff extremely helpful and kind. Breakfast was quite basic (maybe because we were the only ones that morning; I've been another time and there was more stuff) but you can order real coffee/cappuccino at the bar without extra cost. The pizza at the restaurant is probably the best in the whole province!
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2018

2/10 Terrible

Alexandre

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Appalling. Avoid at all costs!

We decided to stay at this hotel for two reasons: first, because it was about as far up the flank of Mount Etna as one can get, and secondly, because it was well rated. Boy, were we ever wrong on the second point! The front desk was manned by an unkempt man who barely looked up and offered no information whatsoever (e.g., we didn't find out there was an elevator until we were leaving). The halls and stairs were unlit, with switches on timers that had to be turned back on every five meters to avoid stumbling around in the dark. Our room was a singular cross between a Gulag, a sad summer camp and solitary confinement in a medium-security prison. Uncomfortable bed, questionable cleanliness, scuffed, worn floors, lightbulb burned out... We were tired and there aren't exactly dozens of food options on the side of a volcano, so we decided to try the on-site restaurant... which is where the "full Gulag" experience came into focus. It was genuinely appalling: Surly, indifferent waiters; ghastly, inedible prison food (I was unable to finish even a quarter of my plate); and the only truly undrinkable wine I've ever had in Italy. Nauseated and grumpy, we returned to our room as soon as possible and tried to fall asleep. The breakfast the next morning was somewhat better, though we still left as fast as we could. All in all, quite possibly the worst hotel I have ever had the misfortune of staying in. Avoid it at all costs!
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2018

10/10 Excellent

Nicolo

Cozy room on top of the volcano

Nice and cozy room. Good pizza at the restaurant. Decent price (considering where you are). Great starting point for a morning hike on the small craters.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2018

6/10 Okay

Sarah, Malvern, Worcestershire

Liked: Staff & service

Perfect for visitng Etna

Friendly, helpful staff. Accommodation a bit basic, room clean, smell of drains in the bathroom. Breakfast was OK. BUT, right next to cable car for Etna. Also, we went to the restaurant (NOT cafe) attached for dinner and the food was excellent, would recommend it.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2018