Descend into the jet-black basalt columns of the Alcantara Gorges — a cathedral of volcanic rock carved by the clearest glacial river in Sicily. Combine it with the Etna foothills' terraced vineyards for a half-day of extraordinary geological theatre.
What to expect
A private driver-guide collects you dockside and whisks you inland through citrus and olive groves to the gorge entrance. Descend by lift or stairway to the river-level canyon, where hexagonal basalt columns tower overhead and the ice-cold water swirls in deep blue pools. Your guide explains how ancient Etna lava flows sculpted this landscape over millennia. The return route passes Etna-side farms where wild pistachios and Nerello Mascalese vines grow in volcanic soil.
Good to know
Bring a swimsuit if you want to wade into the rock pools (water is cold even in summer). Waterproof sandals are available for hire at the park. Round-trip from port is under 3 hours, making this perfect if you also want time in Taormina. Book the private transfer in advance through a local operator or directly with sicilyactive.com.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Giardini Naxos — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Giardini Naxos
- Ancient Theatre of Taormina: Skip-the-Queue Private Tour
- Mount Etna Summit Craters: Private 4x4 Volcanic Adventure
- Bay of Naxos & Taormina: Private Sunrise Boat Tour with Snorkelling
- Gambino Winery Etna DOC: Private Tasting & Vineyard Tour
- Castelmola & Taormina: Private Village & Panoramic Walking Tour