Alcantara Gorge
Gole dell'Alcantara
A gorge of basalt columns formed as ancient lava cooled, with icy river water flowing through it. Wade in, go rafting, or admire it from the banks.
The Alcantara Gorge lies about 20 km west of Taormina. Ancient Etna lava flowed into the river valley and cooled rapidly, forming hexagonal basalt columns up to 25 m high, while the river carved a narrow, deep gorge. You can take the free municipal steps down to the riverbed, or enter the private botanical and geological park (with an elevator; tickets about 10–15 euros). In summer you can rent a one-piece waterproof suit to wade into the gorge and join a “body rafting” trip. The water is very cold, so take care. The site may close after heavy rain. You can reach it by Interbus bus, or join a one-day Etna tour that includes a stop here.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00 until sunset (mainly May–Oct)
Nearby sights
- Castelmola
- Giardini Naxos
- Naxos Archaeological Park
- Corso Umberto & Piazza IX Aprile, Taormina
- Villa Comunale di Taormina
- Ancient Theatre of Taormina
- Isola Bella
- Etna Wineries (North Slope)