The Alcantara Gorges: A Natural Wonder Created From Lava

Exploring the Story of Nature:

In Sicily, nature never ceases to assert itself, offering us landscapes each more fascinating than the last. The Alcantara offers one of the most impressive excursions in Sicily. The area's fame lies in the fact that, in prehistoric times, the Alcantara riverbed was crossed by numerous lava flows, altering its course and dramatically sculpting the natural landscape.

In fact, this 52-kilometre-long river meanders between Mount Etna to the south and the Nebrodi and Peloritani Massif to the north, passing through enchanting landscapes dotted with historical remains.

Its name derives from the Arab influence which extends over the territory. Indeed, it is a derivation from a bridge near its mouth at Giardini-Naxos, the word "Al qantar" meaning bridge in Arabic. Lava flows have sculpted fascinating natural formations, including hexagonal columns and spectacular gorges carved by erosion. Some sections are so narrow that they are only a few meters wide! The Gole dell'Alcantara feature cliff faces dozens of meters high, creating a multitude of natural shapes and patterns.

Flora and Fauna: A Multifaceted Spectrum

The Alcantara Gorge is like an archive of Etna's lava flows. In the upper part of the valley, the river is fed mainly by rainwater. In the lower part, on the other hand, Etna's underground waters gush out, mixing with the rainwater. This way, sky and earth come together in harmony.

Nature plays a key role in this process. The gorges are home to some of the most diverse flora and fauna in the country. Whether it's birds of prey, felines or even reptiles, they all live alongside each other. The same is true of the forest, which reigns supreme with its many types of vegetation: oriental plane trees, broom and peonies, as well as a wide variety of colourful flowers: violets, poppies, anemones... Not forgetting a few fruit trees that have taken root to the delight of animals... and people!

What to do in the Alcantara Park?

As well as its soothing appearance, the Gorges offer a wealth of opportunities for fun and excitement :

• Body rafting : a fantastic water experience proposes by sicilying.com among natural lava gorges and canyons. By taking on the crystal clear waters of the Alcantara River you will have a pure shot of adrenalin! Equipped with wetsuit, safety helmet and life jacket, you will take on one of the most beautiful rivers of Sicily.

• Quad : In the heart of the Alcantara Valley, the sensation of speed and freedom is yours! In a breathtaking natural setting, the adrenalin will be at your disposal. Over the centuries, the wild, frozen waters of the Alcantara river have eroded an ancient lava flow, creating a canyon-like landscape. Now thanks to sicilying.com it's your turn to be part of the scenery!

Visitors to the Alcantara Gorges can also explore the footpaths that wind through the gorge, enjoy a swim in the cool waters of the river... Part of the Gorges is protected as a regional park. As such, the park offers visitor facilities including picnic areas, signposted trails and guided tours that can be visited all year round, but the best time to enjoy the beauty of the site and outdoor activities is generally from May to September when the weather is warmer.

The gorge is 13 km from Giardini-Naxos, one of the best-known seaside resorts in north-east Sicily. The gorge can be reached quickly from Taormina via the SS185 road!

Thus, the Alcantara Gorge is an unmissable natural destination in Sicily, offering visitors the chance to discover spectacular scenery and enjoy outdoor activities in the heart of a unique volcanic canyon.

- Written by Clara CHALAYE