The Alcantara Valley

The Alcantara Valley is situated between the bay of Taormina-Naxos and the slopes of Mount Etna.

On the road from the Alcantara Gorges to Francavilla di Sicilia, there are dirt tracks with evocative landscapes. Rocky terrain to cross with quads, motorbikes or jeeps for motor lovers, or trekking, mountain biking or canyoning trails for the more sporty. The picturesque scenery of the Alcantara Valley is rich in folklore, history and culture. The paths that flank the river are pleasant walks among poplars and willows with fences and picnic areas, as well as spaces for sports activities and tactile-plantar paths for the visually impaired and blind.

There are small lakes along the course of the river, the gurne, created by the erosion of water on lava stone. Oaks and oleanders are especially present here, in addition to the poplars and willows already mentioned. In the stretch of river below the footbridge live frogs and toads, while on the hot lava rock natrines warm themselves.

It is very possible to spot some grey herons.