Alcantara Gorges Sicily
Explore a dramatic canyon of basalt columns carved by a glacial river. A unique natural wonder in Sicily.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Alcantara Gorges Sicily
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a dramatic canyon of basalt columns carved by a glacial river. A unique natural wonder in Sicily.
"Amazing place of Alcantara Gorges, it costs 2€ to visit it by foot. The water is cold but not freezing."
👟 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for grip and comfort on slippery rocks. Don't skip this!
🚶♀️ Stairs vs. Elevator
Stairs are cheaper (€2), elevator costs more (€12-15). Choose based on budget & vertigo!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Basalt Gorges
Main canyon area
Towering basalt columns carved by the river create a dramatic, otherworldly canyon. A true natural wonder!
River Trekking
Riverbed
Wade through the cool, clear waters and explore the canyon's depths. An invigorating adventure for the brave!
Panoramic Views
Upper viewpoints
Take in breathtaking vistas of the gorges and the surrounding Sicilian landscape from above.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
What to Wear & Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for grip and comfort on slippery rocks. Don't skip this!
🚶♀️ Stairs vs. Elevator
Stairs are cheaper (€2), elevator costs more (€12-15). Choose based on budget & vertigo!
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a scenic lunch by the river. Food options onsite can be pricey.
🥶 Brace for Cold Water
The water is bracingly cold, even in summer. A quick dip is refreshing!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for grip and comfort on slippery rocks. Don't skip this!
🚶♀️ Stairs vs. Elevator
Stairs are cheaper (€2), elevator costs more (€12-15). Choose based on budget & vertigo!
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a scenic lunch by the river. Food options onsite can be pricey.
🥶 Brace for Cold Water
The water is bracingly cold, even in summer. A quick dip is refreshing!
🚗 Parking & Transport
Buses from Taormina are available, but check schedules. Uber is an option.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Alcantara Gorges for their stunning natural beauty and unique geological formations. The dramatic basalt columns and the refreshing river create an inspiring environment. However, many note that it can get crowded, and the cost of the elevator access is a point of contention for some.
"Summary: crowded but beautiful. The rushing water is bracing and the whole environment is inspiring.
Going there we didn’t really know what to expect despite looking on Trip Advisor and other sites so here is what we found.
Firstly, it’s not remote at all. Buses from Taormina go there on the hour (Sunday’s schedule is more intermittent). We went on a Sunday and missed the last early bus so rather than wait 3 hours for the next one, got an Uber for about £50. This was a relatively good price: Sicily is not cheap.
When you arrive there is visitor centre which sells tickets and food. It has places for a picnic and rather messy toilets.
You can either pay a couple euros to use a turnstile to walk down to the gorge or just before that, pay €10 to take the rickety lift. We were directed straight to the ticket office not realising if we wanted to take the stairs we didn’t need to buy a ticket. However, if you suffer from vertigo the lift is the better option.
You can also purchase other ticket options here for activities in the gorge - basically going further upstream than you can without a wetsuit or waders and a guide. We didn’t look into these options.
Next, when you get to the gorge itself you can either wade upstream between the steep walls where the water is up to 1m deep, or you can explore downstream clambering over rocks (or walking along on a parallel path). Either way, ‘swimming shoes’ are recommended unless you have feet made of leather like my son.😊
Many families park up in the spaces between these two parts and basically treat it like a beach alternating between sunbathing and cooling off. There are no toilets at the bottom but there is a small bar.
My two boys (9 & 16), my wife and myself really enjoyed negotiating the rapids and clambering over the rocks. Take care though, the currents are dangerously strong in places and we lost our footing and were caught out a couple times. We stayed about three hours in all.
Oh one last thing, if you go by bus the stop is outside the carpark. Take the bus times from the Interbus website, not the bus stop as the timetable seemed out of date.
Well worth a visit."
Jack Curzon
"If you want to avoid to crowded beaches close to Taormina, you have this option.
Once down by the river, I recommend you to go up in order to be closer to the gorges.
And the go down in order to avoid the “crowd”, you will find good places.
The pity is that you have to paid around 15€ just to take an elevator …"
Alexandre Bazzoli
"Amazing place of Alcantara Gorges, it costs 2€ to visit it by foot. It will take apr 5-7 minutes to go down.The water is cold but not freezing as it was mentioned in other reviews, we enjoyed the swimming also."
Sonata Savkiene
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the Alcantara Gorges from Taormina by bus, which runs hourly (check Interbus schedules as they can be outdated). Alternatively, an Uber or taxi can be a convenient but more expensive option, costing around €50.
Yes, driving is straightforward. The gorges are easily accessible via the SS185 road.
Absolutely! Public buses from nearby towns like Taormina and public transport options are available, making it accessible for those without a car.
Many visitors find a combination of public transport and walking to be effective. For those seeking adventure, quad tours are also available.
Yes, several tour operators offer excursions to the Alcantara Gorges, often combined with visits to Mount Etna. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry via the stairs is very affordable, around €2. Using the elevator to descend costs approximately €12-€15.
If you choose to take the stairs down to the gorge, you only need to pay a small fee of around €2. The elevator option is significantly more expensive.
The gorges are generally open daily during daylight hours, but it's advisable to check the official website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date hours, especially outside of peak season.
Yes, beyond simply exploring, you can opt for guided activities like body rafting or canyoning further upstream, which require special gear and guides.
Yes, you can wade and swim in designated areas of the river. Be prepared for the cold water!
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can wade upstream in the river, clamber over rocks, or walk along a parallel path. Many visitors treat it like a beach, alternating between sunbathing and cooling off.
The water is described as bracingly cold, but not freezing. It's a refreshing experience, especially on a hot day.
Sturdy water shoes or old sneakers are highly recommended for navigating the rocky riverbed. Bring a swimsuit and towel.
There is a visitor center with ticket sales and food options. Toilets are available, though some reviews mention they can be messy. There's also a small bar at the bottom.
Yes, families often enjoy the experience, treating it like a beach. However, caution is advised due to strong currents in places and slippery rocks.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic basalt formations, the river itself, and the panoramic views from above offer incredible photographic opportunities. Drone footage can capture unique perspectives.
While not explicitly prohibited in all areas, it's always best to check local regulations and be mindful of other visitors. Some drone footage has been shared online.
Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the dramatic landscape. Early mornings can also offer softer light and fewer crowds.
Absolutely! Your smartphone camera can capture the stunning beauty of the gorges. Focus on composition and the unique textures of the basalt.
Many popular shots feature the towering basalt columns, people wading in the river, and sweeping aerial views of the canyon.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations: Bring sturdy water shoes for everyone, pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and consider the stairs over the elevator for cost savings. Be mindful of the slippery rocks and the strength of the current in certain areas, and supervise children closely. The botanical garden section is generally not considered a highlight.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilizing public transport from nearby towns like Taormina is a more economical way to reach the gorges compared to taxis or Ubers.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Consider visiting during the golden hour in the late afternoon for soft, warm light that enhances the natural beauty, or early morning to avoid crowds and capture serene shots. Experiment with different angles, from ground level wading in the river to higher vantage points for panoramic views. Drone photography can provide spectacular aerial perspectives of the canyon.
Remember to protect your gear from water and bring a waterproof bag for your camera. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of the Gorges
+1These unique geological formations create a dramatic and almost otherworldly landscape. The river's constant flow, especially after heavy rains or snowmelt from Etna, continues to shape and refine the gorges, making each visit a slightly different experience. The sheer scale and intricate patterns of the basalt are truly awe-inspiring.
+1Visitors can witness this geological marvel up close by descending into the gorges. The contrast between the dark, angular basalt and the clear, cool river water is striking. It's a place where you can feel the raw power of volcanic activity and erosion working in tandem.
+1Experiencing the River
Many visitors choose to wade upstream through the river, navigating the rocky bed and feeling the current. This is where sturdy water shoes or old sneakers are essential for grip and protection. For the more adventurous, activities like body rafting and canyoning are available with guides, allowing deeper exploration of the river's course.
Beyond active exploration, the riverbanks also serve as a natural beach area for many. Families and groups often spend hours here, alternating between sunbathing on the rocks and cooling off in the water. It's a place where you can truly connect with the natural environment.
Adventure Activities
More immersive water-based adventures include body rafting and canyoning. These activities, usually led by experienced guides, involve navigating the river's currents, sliding down natural rock formations, and sometimes even rappelling. They provide an unforgettable way to experience the heart of the gorges.
These activities are a fantastic way to add an element of excitement to your visit, catering to a more adventurous traveler looking to actively engage with the unique landscape.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit