Hi, I’m Riccardo,
the freelance photographer who introduced you to beautiful Taormina (read the article here). Do you remember? Today, I’m going to tell you about a nature excursion I did near Catania.
I will guide you to the discovery of the Alcantara Gorges.
The Alcantara Gorges, between origins and legends
They are true wonders of Sicilian nature, a formation of volcanic basalt, crossed by the river that has carved over the centuries a breathtaking channel about 6 kilometres long, which between extraordinary reflections and glittering water on the black lava stone walls, will leave even the most difficult visitors amazed.
As for the origin of these gorges, there are several theories, among which the most accredited is linked to a succession of high-intensity seismic events that led to this final result!
As for all beautiful things, also for the Alcantara Gorges, the Sicilians have given us a poignant legend, linked to the dishonesty of a farmer, who, because of his behaviour without morals, unleashed the wrath of the Gods, in the mists of time, giving rise to an unprecedented volcanic eruption.
The Alcantara Gorge, the River Park
The River Park lies between the municipalities of Castiglione di Sicilia and Motta Camastra. The gorges can be compared to canyons that extend over more than 1900 hectares and cross a landscape that alternates between rocks and wild vegetation. Their height can even exceed 20 metres, with a width ranging from 2 to 5 metres. They are narrow, very long and very high, with a very particular shape. The most imposing is undoubtedly to be found in Motta Camastra, a small town nestled in the rock near Messina, overlooking a 6 km long gorge.
It is an unforgettable nature trail, where, in addition to the marvellous “gorges”, you can immerse yourself in unspoilt nature, reaching in a few minutes the Sorgente di Venere (Venus Spring) along the course of the river, from which it will be possible to admire enchanting basalt walls descending to the bottom, capable of offering spectacular natural pictures, which will soon lead visitors to an incredible little beach, completely immersed in the Mediterranean maquis.
There are many routes: you can choose between a visit to the small gorges, the Calatabiano Castle path or the one leading to Castiglione di Sicilia, the path along the banks of the Alcantara, the Larderia Gorge path and the Montagna Grande path. They range from the simplest, ideal for everyone, even beginners, to slightly more complicated routes, perfect for those who like to practise sport, getting lost in detours and paths. In any case, walking here is an experience for those who are in the area and the view from the many vantage points is simply unrepeatable.
Sports and adventure lovers can try out numerous activities, such as canyoning or body rafting.
In summer, those who live in the area can’t resist a swim in the river, which is one of the most important waterways in Sicily. Since the water here is not very high, many people like to go into the gorges, inside the canyons, for a unique experience of full immersion in nature.
A perfect place for those who want to fill themselves with beauty, but above all for those who love hiking and long walks. In short, a small natural paradise waiting to be discovered.
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