Top 20 Natural Monuments around Acireale

The Cyclopean Coast near Aci Trezza consists of volcanic rock, primarily columnar basalt and so-called lava pillows, which were formed during underwater eruptions during an early phase of Etna's eruption approximately 500,000–570,000 years ago. It also features rocky beaches, crystal-clear water, and various myths and legends.

The Acqua Rocca Trail takes its name from a seasonal waterfall that forms in winter and spring, shaping the basaltic rocks over time. Even in summer, the trail offers spectacular views of the Valle del Bove, the summit craters and the Ionian coast.

A beautiful, short hike to the summit of Monte Zoccolaro with panoramic views of Mount Etna and the Valle del Bove caldera (lava flow from 1991-1993). Don't be fooled; there are actually two paths leading to the summit. The western one (= former road) runs through nowhere. With a lot of intuition and perseverance, you can continue from here, but there is no defined path to the summit—until you reach the marked path from the hut! The actual path to the summit is marked (trail 704), but it is a real, partly overgrown, sunken path that occasionally winds very close to the edge. Caution: after heavy rains, part of the edge could slide away. The cross on the summit of Monte Zoccolaro dates back to 1948, when priest Salvatore Russo, along with some parishioners, carried it on his shoulders to the summit of the mountain. Here, it was inscribed with the words: Prayer, Deed, Sacrifice and firmly anchored. Every year on September 14th – the day the cross was erected – a mass is celebrated at the foot of the monument at 9 a.m. In good weather, the view over the Val Bove is breathtaking, and the summit is one of the privileged vantage points for witnessing Etna's eruptions at night. It's worth it, but it's more than just a short walk!

**The Lungomare dei Ciclopi: A Cycling Tour between Myth and Nature** If you have decided to extend your stay in the Etna area, an unmissable day trip is the one along the Lungomare dei Ciclopi. This route, which is part of the permanent cycling itinerary *Sicily Divide* from Trapani to Catania, is the last stop to take before concluding the trip. The beauty of the landscape and the charm of the legend will accompany you on a unique experience. The Lungomare dei Ciclopi, which extends from Acitrezza to Catania, takes its name from the famous mythological legend of Ulysses and the Cyclops Polyphemus. It is said that, during his return home, Ulysses landed on these shores where he met the giant Cyclops, monsters with a single eye in the center of their foreheads. After capturing Ulysses and his companions, Polyphemus was blinded thanks to the deception of the Greek hero, who managed to escape with his men. The rocks that emerge from the sea, known as the "Faraglioni", are considered by myths to be the homes of the Cyclops, who threw rocks into the sea to hinder the hero's escape. Cycling along the Lungomare dei Ciclopi is an experience that combines nature, history and legend. The route offers spectacular views of the crystalline sea and Mount Etna, the highest volcano in Europe. The coastal road allows you to admire the breathtaking landscape, with small seaside villages where you can stop for a break and enjoy typical dishes such as fresh fish and Sicilian granitas. This excursion is also an opportunity to discover the Cyclops natural park, a protected area that is home to a rich biodiversity. The coast, with its Mediterranean vegetation, is ideal for those who love nature and want to immerse themselves in an uncontaminated environment. If you have decided to stay several days in the area, the Lungomare dei Ciclopi is a perfect base for other cycling explorations. Continuing your journey, you will find yourself pedaling through a territory rich in history, traditions and landscapes that will remain etched in your memory. Completing the *Sicily Divide* along the Lungomare dei Ciclopi is much more than a sporting feat: it is a dive into mythology and nature, which will leave you with an indelible memory of Sicily.

The third proposed route cannot currently be done! The section that goes up to Mount Zoccolaro is currently closed due to new landslides on the ridge! It is best to only do the route from Piano del Vescovo to Acqua Rocca and then continue to Valle del Bove!

Nice place to relax in the shadow of the castle!

A nice place to rest for a moment in the shade of the castle!

The ticket for the castle is for age groups: From 0 to 6 years free entry. From 7 to 10 years €1.50 From 11 to 65 years €3.50 Over 65 years €2.00 Middle and high school students accompanied by teachers €2.50