Get ready for an outdoor adventure in one of Sicily’s most striking river landscapes: the Gurne dell’Alcantara. This hidden gem near Francavilla di Sicilia is a chain of 16 natural pools carved by the River Alcantara—an atmospheric, quieter alternative to the better-known Alcantara Gorges.

Meet at Antica Dolceria dell’Etna in Zafferana Etnea and get equipped with a wetsuit, canyoning shoes, and a helmet. After a brief safety briefing, travel with your group from the meeting point to the start of the route. Then step into a world of dark basalt walls, flowing water, and sculpted canyon passages shaped by ancient volcanic activity and erosion.

With your specialist nature/volcanology guide, you’ll walk along the riverbed, navigate narrow sections of canyon, and tackle fun passages at a pace designed to feel exciting but manageable—making this a great choice even if it’s your first canyoning experience. Along the way, you’ll learn what makes this landscape so unique, from the rock formations to the river’s path through the valley.

If you feel like it, you can wade and take refreshing dips in the cool water during the route. Throughout the experience, your guide provides close assistance so you can focus on the scenery and the thrill of exploring a truly distinctive corner of Sicily. At the end, return with the group back to the meeting point.