We will be in Sicily with two kids (aged 5 and almost 3) in a couple of weeks. I can't tell whether the train that goes around the base of Mount Etna (the Circumetnea) is worth taking if we're not using it for transport...in other words, is it a cool old-fashioned experience for the kids, and how is the scenery? Can you see lava flows etc.? We will be renting a car to drive from Taormina to outside Siracusa so we could drive the car around the mountain as well...just thinking that the train might be more fun for all concerned. But the loop takes a while, I think? Thanks for any help.

Better take your car and drive up to the top as far as you can go (there will be snow at this time of year). In summer, there are special cars which bring you up to the crater. THIS is an experience!

I was also curious about the train but we decided to drive to the summit, instead. As I remember, the train ride alone takes 3 and a half hours.

More information here:

www.circumetnea.it

Another small point that I remember is that Randazzo, the largest of the villages on the train route, may be the most interesting of the stops. It has a medieval core and also a Sunday market.. This is from my notes, as we ultimately decided on driving to the summit; there was snow at the higher elevations even in early May. This was the second time I had done this driving trip and it remains a highlight of my time on the island. Make sure to bring very warm clothing if you go this route.

Thanks, you two: Actually, we weren't thinking about getting on and off the train but just riding the whole way around. 3.5 hours seems a bit too much, however. So, perhaps driving is best. I think our daughter might be too scared to drive to the summit/crater. Just want to get a taste. tx again

Just remember, if you drive, you are not actually able to drive all the way to the actual summit. You drive up the sides of the mountain on normal roads, passing the dead lava flows, to a parking lot (where there was snow in May) and then hike a little to see the fumaroles (?) where there is smoke and a sulphur smell. I found it very exciting, even the second time.
If you want to go higher, you have to take some kind of tour in a 4-wheel drive with a ranger. Again, do not forget to bring warm jackets!