Italy Mount Etnas Smoke Rings, Sicily

Sicily's Etna, the largest volcano in Europe, is very well known. Not so much its vortex rings, which it has been intermittently emitting since October 2023. The phenomenon, or the reason behind it, is not entirely clear to scientists yet, but the visual spectacle is grand.

"Mount Etna is Europe's tallest active volcano, located on the east coast of Sicily, Italy. It is known for its frequent eruptions and distinctive conical shape. Etna's eruptions often produce lava flows, ash clouds, and occasionally explosive eruptions. The volcano is also surrounded by fertile slopes that support agriculture and vineyards."

Bring a proper tele lens with you, when visiting this spot, because Mount Etna is 20km away. I used a Sony SEL 100-400mm with a 1.4 Converter together on a Sony A7III and a A6500. A tripod is a must. Expect lots of heat waves, so be early in the morning.
At the given spot, you can easily camp and stay overnight, like we did.

The first picture has been taken at this spot, the one or other is shot at different locations around the Mt. Etna.

Just follow the navigation system, it is easy to find.
The exact spot (which isn't necessary, as you can park along the road) is a bit uphill and might need a 4x4.