Sicily Adventure
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The Canyon of Eastern Sicily
At the border of the Messina and Catania regions, overlooking the Ionian Coast, lies one of the natural treasures of Sicily: the Alcantara Gorges. Located within the only River Park in Sicily, they owe their existence to the Alcantara River, which flows down the northern slopes of Mount Etna, from the Nebrodi Mountains to the Ionian Sea coast, in the area of Giardini Naxos.
In this article, we will provide concise yet comprehensive answers to the most useful and common questions that every traveller may have before visiting them.
The Alcantara Gorges are a canyon formed by walls of lava basalt carved into various shapes, with sheer cliffs towering up to 50 meters high and narrowing down to just a few meters. The walls have a majestic and unique appearance at the same time. Basalt columns follow one another, creating a true natural spectacle.
You can choose to experience the Alcantara Gorges in various ways. You can relax on the small pebble beach you'll encounter as soon as you reach the Gorges, enjoy the sun, listen to the sound of the flowing water, and admire its imposing walls. Alternatively, you can have a unique adventure with a guided excursion to the Alcantara Gorges.
Many people opt to cross the river and venture along the path that runs alongside it as far as possible. However, it is strongly discouraged to venture on your own for descending and ascending the river, as its waters, despite being shallow, can be unpredictable and dangerous at some points.
If you're an adventurous type and enjoy experiencing thrills in the places you visit, here at the Alcantara Gorges, you absolutely must try a Body Rafting adventure.
Equipped with all the necessary gear (helmet, neoprene wetsuit, and life jacket), accompanied by expert guides, we will take you to explore the most beautiful and hidden corners of the canyon. We guarantee you an adrenaline-rich experience and guaranteed fun!
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Another thrilling adventure at the Alcantara Gorges is the River Trekking excursion, where you'll experience a safe upstream journey in the river with the necessary equipment provided by the organizers.
These excursions are conducted in the summer because the water temperature is more bearable, and the river flow is significantly lower compared to the winter months.
Questions and answers
The easiest way to reach the Alcantara Gorges is by car, which is also the most convenient mode of transportation for getting around Sicily. The highway A18 Messina-Catania exit that leads to the Alcantara Gorges is the one in Giardini Naxos.
Subsequently, driving about 15 km on SS 185 towards Francavilla di Sicilia, you will arrive at the entrance to the Alcantara River Park, in the area of Fondaco Motta, in the municipality of Motta Camastra.
BY BUS To reach the Alcantara Gorges by bus from Letojanni, Taormina, and Giardini Naxos, please check the Interbus schedules and the nearest bus stop to your accommodation.
NOTE: The bus stops a short distance from the municipal ticket office.
Distance from Taormina: approximately 20.9 km, around 37 minutes.
Distance from Giardini Naxos: approximately 14.7 km, around 23 minutes.
Distance from Catania: approximately 55.7 km, around 1 hour.
BY TRAIN: Not reachable by train.
Highway Exit: Giardini Naxos. If your route to the Alcantara Gorges includes travelling on the highway, take the Giardini Naxos highway exit and continue in the direction of Francavilla di Sicilia.
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