Cava Carosello
Discover Cava Carosello, a Sicilian paradise where ancient ruins meet emerald swimming holes. Hike through history and dive into nature's embrace.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Cava Carosello
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Cava Carosello, a Sicilian paradise where ancient ruins meet emerald swimming holes. Hike through history and dive into nature's embrace.
"An amazing hidden gem with beautiful natural pools and a hike through ancient ruins."
👟 Wear Proper Shoes
Uneven terrain requires sturdy footwear. Water shoes are great for the pools!
🚗 Park Smart
Avoid leaving valuables in your car. Consider parking at the entrance of the archaeological site.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crystal Clear Swimming Holes
Lower pools
Dive into refreshing, emerald-green waters in these natural pools, perfect for a cooling dip.
Noto Antica Ruins
Trailhead
Wander through the evocative ruins of an ancient town, adding a historical layer to your nature walk.
Emerald Green Lake
Upper pool
Discover a particularly striking small lake with vibrant green water, a photographer's dream.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Footwear is Key
Secure Your Valuables
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Proper Shoes
Uneven terrain requires sturdy footwear. Water shoes are great for the pools!
🚗 Park Smart
Avoid leaving valuables in your car. Consider parking at the entrance of the archaeological site.
💧 Bring Water Shoes
The water is cold and refreshing; water shoes provide comfort and grip.
🚶♀️ Hike with Kids
Feasible for children, but requires caution on uneven paths.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Proper Shoes
Uneven terrain requires sturdy footwear. Water shoes are great for the pools!
🚗 Park Smart
Avoid leaving valuables in your car. Consider parking at the entrance of the archaeological site.
💧 Bring Water Shoes
The water is cold and refreshing; water shoes provide comfort and grip.
🚶♀️ Hike with Kids
Feasible for children, but requires caution on uneven paths.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The emerald waters and ancient ruins offer stunning photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cava Carosello is lauded as a beautiful hidden gem, offering a unique combination of historical ruins and natural swimming holes. Visitors praise the refreshing, clear waters and the scenic hike through Noto Antica. However, potential visitors should be aware of the uneven terrain and the risk of car break-ins at parking areas.
"Short hike to two swimming holes. The walk to the trail head is through the ruins of the old town, which makes it fun and interesting. The trail itself has uneven stones and loose gravel, so not a good choice for poor footwear or those who are not sure footed. My 15, 12, and 9 year old kids made it just fine.
The second swimming hole is a 10 minute hike from the first, along a shared path with a gentle grade.
The water is cold, and you will probably want water shoes."
Edward Pricer
"Amazing hidden gem. Done with kids, a bit difficult but certainly feasible. First stop after 20min. We swam in the crystal pond."
Alessio
"Pretty and accessible natural pool.
The walk down from where you park is about 1 km (very accessible but needs proper shoes). Going up is a bit more difficult but still very accesible"
Ruxandra Mot
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Cava Carosello, it's best to get directions for Noto Antica via SS287. Google Maps might direct you onto steep, unpaved roads (SP64) that are not suitable for all cars. Parking is available near the entrance of the archaeological site.
Public transport options to Cava Carosello are limited. It's generally recommended to have a car for easier access, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding Noto Antica area.
Avoid taking SP64 directly from Noto city center as it can lead to difficult, unpaved roads. Instead, navigate towards Noto Antica via SS287 for a more accessible route.
Yes, parking is available near the entrance of the archaeological site of Noto Antica, which serves as the trailhead for Cava Carosello.
Absolutely! Cava Carosello is a popular day trip destination, especially from cities like Syracuse, as it's located near Noto Antica.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Cava Carosello itself is generally free, as it's a natural area. However, there might be parking fees or entrance fees associated with the Noto Antica archaeological site if you choose to explore it extensively.
As a natural site, Cava Carosello doesn't have strict opening hours. It's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the scenery.
Typically, there is no entrance fee for Cava Carosello. It's a natural reserve and hiking area.
While not always advertised, local guides or tour operators might offer guided treks to Cava Carosello, especially those focusing on yoga or nature exploration.
Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment and historical ruins. Avoid littering and stay on marked paths where possible.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike involves uneven stones and loose gravel, making it moderately challenging. The walk to the first swimming hole takes about 20 minutes, with the second being another 10 minutes further.
Yes, families with children can manage the hike, though it requires proper footwear and supervision due to the uneven terrain. Kids as young as 9 have successfully completed the trek.
Absolutely! Cava Carosello features beautiful, crystal-clear swimming holes, with the water being refreshingly cold. Water shoes are recommended.
Bring sturdy walking shoes, water shoes, plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and a towel. A camera is a must for the stunning scenery!
There are no dedicated facilities like restrooms or changing rooms directly at Cava Carosello. It's a natural site, so plan accordingly.
📸 📸 Photography
The emerald green lake, the crystal-clear swimming holes, and the ancient ruins of Noto Antica offer incredible photographic opportunities. The interplay of nature and history is captivating. 
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the vibrant colors of the water and the textures of the ruins. Late afternoon can also offer soft, appealing light.
While any camera can capture the beauty, a wide-angle lens can be useful for the landscapes, and a waterproof camera or phone case is great if you plan to swim.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in natural and archaeological sites before flying.
Expect stunning shots of turquoise and emerald waters, lush greenery, ancient stone structures, and the overall serene natural landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The refreshing swimming holes are a major highlight for younger visitors, offering a fun way to cool down. Remember to bring water shoes for them and ensure they are supervised around the water. The relatively short hike to the first pool makes it accessible for most families, with the option to continue to a second, even more picturesque pool.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
+1Experienced hikers might find the trails moderate, but the combination of historical context and natural beauty makes it a unique destination. Consider combining your visit with other nearby trails in the Monti Iblei region for a more extensive exploration.
📸 Photographers
+1Don't miss capturing the atmospheric ruins of Noto Antica that frame the entrance to the trail. The interplay of light on the water and the textures of the ancient stones creates compelling photographic subjects. Visiting in the morning or late afternoon can offer the best light for dramatic shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Trek Through Noto Antica
+1The trail leading to the water features uneven stones and loose gravel, so sturdy footwear is a must. While manageable for most, those with mobility issues or who are not sure-footed might find certain sections challenging. The walk to the first swimming hole is approximately 20 minutes, with the second, often more striking, pool a further 10-minute trek along a gently graded path.
Many visitors highlight the historical significance of the area, noting how the ruins enhance the natural beauty. It's a unique combination of archaeological exploration and natural immersion, offering a multi-layered experience that goes beyond just a simple hike.
The Enchanting Waters of Cava Carosello
These natural swimming holes provide a perfect opportunity to cool off, especially during the warmer Sicilian months.Visitors often describe the water as refreshingly cold, making it an invigorating experience. Bringing water shoes is highly recommended, not only for comfort while swimming but also for better grip on the potentially slippery rocks around the pools.
The beauty of these water features is a major draw, with many travelers calling it a 'hidden gem' and an 'amazing natural pool.' The visual appeal is undeniable, making it a prime spot for photography and a memorable part of any visit to the region.
+1Safety and Practicalities
The trail itself, while rewarding, requires appropriate gear. Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are essential due to the uneven, rocky terrain. For swimming, water shoes are highly recommended for both comfort and safety. Bringing ample water and snacks is also advised, as there are no facilities directly at the site.
For those with children, the hike is generally considered feasible, though it requires careful footing. The overall experience is one of natural beauty and historical intrigue, but preparedness regarding footwear and vehicle security will significantly enhance your visit.
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