Alcantara Valley and Gorges

The beautiful Alcantara Gorges are located in the valley of the Alcantara River, a natural area of great geological and ecological richness. This site is at the heart of the Parco Fluviale dell’Alcantara, a regional nature reserve covering approximately 573 km², encompassing the neighboring municipalities. The valley is crossed by the 53 km long Alcantara River, which rises in the Nebrodi mountains and flows into the Ionian Sea near Giardini Naxos. This river is known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque landscapes, attracting numerous visitors every year.
Some access points to the main gorges are subject to a fee, approximately €13 for the private park, €1.50 for public access. 

The Gole dell’Alcantara (canyon)

The walls of the gorges can reach up to 25 meters in height and vary in width from 2 to 5 meters, depending on the section. The basalt columns in the Alcantara Gorges are one of the most beautiful geological formations of Etna.

This natural canyon was formed mainly by the erosion of solidified basaltic lava, resulting from volcanic flows from Etna. Unlike some earlier hypotheses suggesting a seismic origin, current geological studies indicate that the gorges are the product of river erosion on ancient lava flows dating back several thousand years (the lava flows come from three different eruptions emitted from the northern flank of Etna at different times). The prismatic structures observed on the walls are the result of the slow cooling of the lava, forming characteristic hexagonal columns. 

The most iconic gorge is located in the territory of Motta Camastra, near Fondaco Motta. It extends over more than 6 km and is partially accessible to visitors (paid access). This section is particularly appreciated for its unique geological formations and its preserved natural environment.
Access to this section is via a staircase of about 200 steps, or via a hiking trail of about 2.5 km from Francavilla di Sicilia. 

The Gurne dell’Alcantara

Upstream of the gorges, the river forms natural pools called gurne, located mainly in the municipality of Francavilla di Sicilia. These natural pools are carved into the basaltic rock and vary in size and depth. They are surrounded by lush vegetation and offer cool waters, ideal for summer swimming. The gurne are accessible via hiking trails, some of which are suitable for families and occasional hikers. It is recommended to wear appropriate footwear and to follow local safety instructions. From Francavilla, the trail leading to the gurne is about 1.5 km long, with an easy difficulty level.

Access to the gorges, visiting conditions

The Alcantara Valley is open to the public throughout the year. However, it is important to note that weather conditions can affect the accessibility and safety of the site. Sudden floods of the river, particularly after heavy rain, can make certain areas dangerous. It is therefore advisable to check the weather forecast and to inquire with local authorities before planning a visit. Local guides are available to accompany visitors and ensure a safe and enriching experience.

Alcantara Gorges entrance fees (2025)

1. Public entrance (access via the staircase)
   Standard rate: €1.50
   Free for children up to 6 years old.
   Direct access to the river via a staircase of 200 steps.
2. Private entrance (Parco Fluviale dell’Alcantara)
   Standard rate: €13.00 / Seniors (over 65): €11.00 / Children (6-12 years): €9.00
   Family rate (2 adults + 2 children): €30.00
   Groups (10 people or more): €11.00 per person
   Opening hours: every day from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM
3. Guided tour
   Approximately €12.00

Route and access

From Messina, take the SS no. 114 toward Catania, turn off after Giardini Naxos onto the SS no. 185 toward Francavilla di Sicilia. After about 12 km, you will reach the Alcantara Gorges. From the A18 motorway, exit at Giardini Naxos, follow the signs toward Francavilla di Sicilia.
Parking is available near the main entrance points. Access to the gorges can be made via different routes, some of which include stairs or elevators. Entrance fees vary depending on the season and the services offered. It is recommended to check updated information before your visit.

Francavilla di Sicilia

Francavilla di Sicilia is located in the upper Alcantara valley, whose historic center retains the medieval urban layout, dominated by the remains of the Norman castle built in the 11th century and later modified in the 16th century. Among the main monuments are the Church of the Santissima Annunziata, built around 1550, and the 16th-century Capuchin convent. The Palazzo Cagnone now houses the M.A.FRA. archaeological museum, which displays the discoveries from the nearby site of Contrada Fantarilli: Greek dwellings, votive material dedicated to Demeter and Persephone, and everyday objects dating from the 6th to the 3rd century BC.
The Fantarilli site bears witness to a settlement of the Greeks of Naxos in the valley after the arrival of the Sicels, indigenous populations present since the end of the Bronze Age. In the Middle Ages, the founding of the Basilian monastery of San Salvatore della Placa around 1092 marks the birth of the medieval nucleus of Francavilla. In 1719, the town was the scene of a confrontation between Spanish and Austrian troops during the War of the Quadruple Alliance, known as the Battle of Francavilla. In the immediate surroundings of the town, the Alcantara River forms the Gurne, a series of natural pools carved into the basaltic rock, accessible on foot via a trail running along the valley.

Information

Parco fluviale dell’Alcantara
Via Nazionale, 5, 98030 Motta Camastra ME

Tour suggestions

External sites

• Alcantara Park website,
• it.wikipedia.org

Articles: Taormina Category

• Taormina
  A charming tourist destination Located in a magnificent setting, between sea and ...
• Savoca and the Abbey of St Peter and Paul of Agrò
  Together with Forza d’Agrò, a remarkable stop north of Taormina, known ...
• Castiglione di Sicilia
  At the foot of the northern slope of Etna, the village ...
• Naxos and Giardini-Naxos
  Naxos, today the locality of Giardini-Naxos on the Ionian coast of ...