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Teeth-chilling cold water flows through the narrow cliff passage, and many visitors opt for waders to explore. Be warned that it is usually closed after heavy rain due to debris which obstructs the river and poses dangers for visitors, while on good days it can get very crowded.

Wading up the Alcantara gorge

In quieter spots, animal life can be expected in the shape of frogs and toads, the rare Hermann’s tortoise and other more common types, a number of harmless snakes, and a host of water birds such as grey herons.

In addition to the gorge, the surrounds offer worthwhile walks in the realms of a newly established park which extends along the course of the river, encompassing over 31,000 hectares. The Parco Fluviale dell’Alcantara (Alcantara River Park) has its headquarters at Francavilla di Sicilia Tel 0942-9899 or www.parcoalcantara.it.

Bathing at the Alcantara River gorge

WALK 3

Monte Mojo

Start/Finish Mojo Alcantara Distance 4km/2.4 miles Ascent/Descent 200m/200m Grade 1–2 Time 2hr 15min (1hr 15min with a car) Access Mojo Alcantara lies some 28km inland from Taormina and 10km from Francavilla, to which it is linked by bus on weekdays, courtesy of the Interbus line. Those arriving by car need the SS 185 which turns east away from the Ionian coast, a short distance south of Taormina. Drivers coming from Randazzo can take the SS 129 as far as Passo Pisciaro then turn north for Mojo. Variant If you are arriving by car you can cut 1hr off timing by driving as far the path start. Refreshments are available at Mojo.

Mojo (also spelt Moio) is a sleepy backwater in the Alcantara hinterland. In addition to the sweet juicy peaches it produces, the main reason to pay a visit is the curious 703m-high mound at the rear of the village. The long-extinct volcano is recognisable from afar standing out in a blaze of unbelievably bright yellow broom in springtime. It was long believed to have pre-dated Etna itself, and fed on the same underground lava pool. Back in the mists of time the modest vulcanetto exploded and spewed ash and volcanic bombs over the surrounding countryside. Moreover Monte Mojo was long held responsible for spilling the thick river of lava that flooded the Alcantara valley, partially blocking the course of the river and leading to the formation of its spectacular gorges. However, more recent credible theories attribute this to Monte Dolce on the Etna massif.