Il Picciolo Etna Golf offers one of the most distinctive rounds you can experience in Sicily. Set on the lower slopes of Mount Etna near Castiglione di Sicilia, the course combines volcanic terrain, mature vegetation and rolling countryside to create a setting that feels completely different from the typical Mediterranean golf resort. For us, this is exactly the sort of course that makes a Sicily golf holiday memorable.

Designed by Italian architect Luigi Rota Caremoli and opened in 1989, Il Picciolo was the first 18-hole golf course built in Sicily. The par-72 layout measures 5,870 metres and makes excellent use of approximately 44 hectares of naturally hilly terrain. Rather than dramatically reshaping the landscape, the course works its way through the existing contours, with volcanic rock, trees and elevation changes becoming an important part of the challenge.

This is not a course where distance alone will get you around. Many of the holes reward accurate positioning from the tee, with doglegs, narrow landing areas, bunkers and out-of-bounds coming into play. Changes in elevation also make judging approach shots important, while several greens have enough slope and movement to keep you thinking once you finally reach the putting surface.

We particularly like the variety throughout the round. The uphill fourth demands an accurate drive before a blind approach to a heavily tiered green, while the closing par-5 18th gives longer hitters the opportunity to take on the dogleg and potentially reach the green in two. Throughout the course, the volcanic landscape and surrounding countryside remind you that you are playing somewhere genuinely unique.

Practice facilities include a 16-bay driving range, with five covered positions, together with dedicated putting and pitching greens. There is also a TrackMan indoor simulator within the clubhouse, making Il Picciolo a good option for golfers who want to spend some extra time working on their game during their stay.

Another major advantage is having Picciolo Etna Golf Resort & Spa, Curio Collection by Hilton alongside the course. The five-star resort makes it easy to build your entire stay around the golf while still having plenty to enjoy away from the fairways. Facilities include the 940-square-metre Ætna Spa & Wellness centre and a choice of restaurants, while the surrounding area opens up opportunities to explore Mount Etna, local vineyards and the historic towns of eastern Sicily.

We think Il Picciolo works especially well for golfers looking for something different from the usual European golf break. The combination of volcanic scenery, technical golf and a quality resort gives it a character all of its own.

Speak to our Golf Travel Experts at Hashtag Golf Travel and we can create a tailor-made Sicily golf holiday featuring Il Picciolo Etna Golf, including accommodation, golf and everything you need for your trip.