Sicily by water: a nature trail through canyons, rivers, and springs

Sicily by water: an itinerary through canyons, rivers, and springs in the island’s interior

Details

When you think of Sicily, your imagination immediately turns to the sea. Yet, far from the coast, the island boasts a surprising water heritage: rivers carved into the rock, deep gorges, mountain springs, and high-altitude lakes.

This itinerary takes you through a cool, green Sicily, ideal for exploring on foot or at a leisurely pace, following the rhythm of the water.

From the lava gorges of Alcantara to the limestone canyons of Cavagrande, from the Anapo Valley to the lakes of Nebrodi, the journey reveals a less crowded, rejuvenating, and authentic island.

A perfect experience for those seeking nature, silence, and unexpected landscapes, in every season of the year.

Stage 1 – Alcantara Gorges: the lava canyon

In the heart of eastern Sicily, the Alcantara River has carved out one of Europe’s most spectacular lava canyons over time. Its gorges are the result of ancient basalt flows cooled by water, which have created geometric walls, hexagonal columns, and unique sculptural shapes.

In addition to the more well-known routes, the area offers less frequented nature trails, ideal for observing the riparian flora and the continuous dialogue between cold water and volcanic rock.

The chromatic and sensory contrast between black lava and clear water makes this place one of the most iconic and surprising river landscapes in Sicily.

Difficulty: Easy
Equipped trails + nature trails
Also accessible to inexperienced visitors

Official website: https://www.golealcantara.it/

Stage 2 – Cavagrande del Cassibile: Mediterranean canyon

An immense limestone gorge carved out by the Cassibile River in the southeast of the island. Cavagrande is a true natural sanctuary, where time seems to slow down.

The scenic trails lead to natural emerald lakes, framed by lush and fragrant vegetation, typical of the Mediterranean.

Here, the experience is deeply slow: walking, observing, listening to the sound of water and the singing of birds. Every step is an invitation to contemplation and direct contact with nature, far from invasive infrastructure.

Difficulty: Medium
Elevation changes and downhill/uphill trails
Good physical condition required, mild climate recommended
Official Website: https://orbs.regione.sicilia.it/

Stage 3 – Anapo Valley and Pantalica: water and archaeology

The Anapo Valley harmoniously combines nature and history. The river flows slowly at the foot of the Pantalica plateau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where thousands of rock tombs bear witness to the millennial relationship between ancient civilizations and water resources.

The paths along the valley floor are flat and accessible, ideal for families, cyclists, and walkers. Here, water becomes the common thread of a story that intertwines landscape, archaeology, and biodiversity.

Difficulty: Easy
Flat paths along the river
Also suitable for families and inexperienced walkers
Official website: https://orbs.regione.sicilia.it

Stage 4 – Springs and rivers of the Nebrodi: high-altitude water

The Nebrodi Park reveals an unexpected side of Sicily: mountainous, green, rich in water. Among beech woods and high-altitude pastures lie the lakes of Maulazzo and Biviere, silent mirrors of water, and the springs of the Pollina River, among the most important on the island.

This is the realm of slow walks, wide views, and seasons that change the color of the landscape. A cool and little-known Sicily, perfect even in the less touristy months.

Difficulty: Easy – Medium
Wide trails, higher altitudes
Variable depending on the season
Official website: https://www.parks.it/parco.nebrodi/Eindex.php