Gorges of Alcantara

The Alcantara River Park is located on the north side of Etna. The river originates from the Nebrodi mountains and flows along 50 kilometers, creating a natural spectacle near the crossing of lava flows that create deep and suggestive overhanging gorges. Within these gorges, many ponds and natural pools with bright colors have formed, giving life to characteristic waterfalls. The entire territory of the Alcantara Gorges is a unique botanical and geological park located halfway between Messina and Catania.

What to see and do in the Alcantara Gorges

The unique spectacle of diving into natural swimming pools among the rocks is just one of the emotions that the Alcantara Gorges offer. Etna has shaped this landscape a lot, creating suggestive gorges. The canyon has been formed over the last 8 thousand years in which the course of the river has alternated with lava flows, creating one of the most particular areas in the world. The rocky walls of the Alcantara Gorges are the most beautiful you can see with your own eyes: the basaltic lava has created hexagonal designs and prisms, woodpile shapes, i.e. horizontal, or harp shapes arranged vertically but arched, rosette, and the most spectacular organ pipes that reach 30 meters in height.

The Alcantara Gorges can be visited during the season that goes from spring to summer when the river is lower and the rocks are kissed by the sun. The most imposing gorge of all is the Motta Camastra which is more than 6 kilometers long, although of these only 3 kilometers can be traveled. The Path of the Gorges allows you to take an interesting excursion inside the Botanical and Geological Park. Furthermore, it is possible to stop and admire the landscape in panoramic points such as the Source of Venus, a small lake that takes its name from a legend: the god Vulcan madly loved the beautiful Venus, and to seal their love, the god decided to warm the waters of Alcantara, a sacred place where the goddess loved to swim. But the love ended due to a betrayal of the goddess and an angry Vulcan decided to freeze those same waters. According to legend, the waters of this pool restore the virility of men who immerse themselves in it.

Once there, you should try the experience of body rafting, a fun and adventurous activity with which you can reach the heart of the Gorges. Do not miss the tour between the Gorges and Etna, to discover a sensational encounter with nature. The Alcantara Gorges also offer visitors the opportunity to cycle along some paths, or to take walks in nature, ending the various routes with a tasting of truly excellent native wines. This unmissable natural spectacle is suitable for both adventurous people and nature lovers who want to admire this wonderful corner of paradise.