Alcantara River Park

Alcantara River Park, an extremely attractive place, is famous for its Gole, or gorges, dug into the rock by the geological erosion of River Alcantara, whose name comes from the Arabic Al Qantarah. This took place when, long ago, a small volcano erupted and poured out a mass of lava that formed a huge dam. The molten lava solidifying formed the huge black columns of basalt that reach 50 meters of height and are visible in the gorge.  A visit to the Gole dell’Alcantara, walking and swimming in the ice cold water is a truly unique experience. The sight before you is amazing: the gorges, so black and prismatic, create wonderful reflections of light and shadows as soon as the sun hits their surface.

To reach Alcantara from Etnalodge:

• Drive to Linguaglossa, continue direction Randazzo (straight), after a few kilometers turn right to Castiglione, head to Francavilla and down towards the gorges.
• From Giardini Naxos take Autostrada ramp and follow the direction Francavilla

Once at the Gole d’Alcantara park at a large advertised Bar/Restaurant.…but do not sponsor it (poor quality, high prices) as they charge a fair
to go down to the gorges. Just walk up the national road for 100 meters and you will find the public staircase (free of charge) that leads you
to the same point!

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