ITINERARY :

• STOP 1

  San Giovanni Li Cuti:

  Your journey begins in San Giovanni Li Cuti, a picturesque fishing village with a unique charm. Here, you'll find a striking beach of black, volcanic sand and pebbles, providing a dramatic contrast with the deep blue of the sea.The small harbor, dotted with fishing  boats, offers a privileged vantage point to admire this scenic interplay between the azure waters and the dark, imposing lava rocks. While you're here, don't miss the chance to savor a refreshing granita or a delicious arancino at one of the local bars, indulging in the many culinary delights that Sicilian cuisine has to offer. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the Lungomare to fully appreciate this postcard-perfect setting.

• STOP 2

  Aci Castello:

  Continuing along the coast from San Giovanni Li Cuti, you'll reach Aci Castello, a town famous for the imposing noble fortress from which it takes its name. Built between the 6th and 7th centuries by the Byzantines, the castle experienced its greatest splendor during the Norman period under Roger of Hauteville. Perched dramatically on a promontory of volcanic rock, it stands steeply above the sea, largely inaccessible except for a masonry staircase. Today, this ancient dwelling houses the Civic Museum, with three sections dedicated to mineralogy, paleontology, and archaeology. From its vantage point, the castle offers a spectacular view of the coastline and Mount Etna. Exploring the Village Take a stroll through the historic center of Aci Castello, with its charming cobblestone streets and typical low-rise houses. Discover the 18th-century Church of San Giuseppe and the church dedicated to San Mauro Abate, immersing yourself in the rich history and traditions of this unique coastal village.

• STOP 3

  Aci Trezza:

  With its magnificent Faraglioni, rocky formations already featured in Greek mythology, Aci Trezza embodies the quintessential beauty of the Mediterranean. The promenade here bustles with restaurants serving fresh fish and bars offering stunning sea views. Among the many activities, you can take a boat trip or enjoy various water sports. At the heart of the village, you'll find the Museo Casa del Nespolo. In Giovanni Verga's literary world, this house represents the home of the Malavoglia family, and inside, you can discover letters belonging to the author and traditional fishing tools. After admiring the craft of a master shipwright and sipping a seltz in the central piazza, make sure to visit the Church dedicated to San Giovanni Battista. In 1948, this church served as a backdrop for Luchino Visconti's iconic film, "La terra trema" (The Earth Trembles).

• STOP 4

  Capomulini:

  Continuing your journey, the next stop is Capomulini, a small village with a charming harbor and marina. Here, you can watch local fishermen at work and observe the comings and goings of boats.This location, known for its tranquil beaches, offers restaurants serving typical local dishes, especially fresh seafood. Life here unfolds at a slow pace, amidst the sound of the waves and the aroma of grilled fish. It's a place where every visit transforms into an unforgettable memory.

• STOP 5

  Santa Maria La Scala:

  A small coastal gem not far from Acireale, Santa Maria La Scala is known for its surrounding natural beauty. From the Timpa promontory to the Grotta delle Colombe (Cave of the Doves)—which, according to myth, was the meeting place for the shepherd Aci and the nymph Galatea—you can also admire the charming harbor and the white houses perched by the sea. It's an ideal spot for a relaxing break, perfect for exploring the charm of its narrow alleys. Santa Maria La Scala is renowned for its tranquility and the picturesque beauty of its seascape.  

• STOP 6

  Santa Tecla:
  Just after leaving Santa Maria La Scala, you'll arrive in Santa Tecla, a charming town that, along with other coastal villages, forms part of the Riviera dei Ciclopi (Cyclops Riviera). Santa Tecla boasts a beach of volcanic pebbles and a small harbor that perfectly preserves a timeless atmosphere. This delightful town offers unique panoramic views, characterized by the intense blue of the sea contrasting with the black of the rocky coastline, which echoes the dark shades of Mount Etna. You'll find picturesque spots, like the one near the 16th-century guardhouse, built on a rock at Scalo Pennisi. It's a truly unique glimpse into the area's natural beauty and history.        

• STOP 7

  Stazzo:

  Between Santa Tecla and Pozzillo, you'll find the fishing village of Stazzo. Its rocky coastline is the result of one of the oldest lava flows from the Gorna crater, dating back to 396 BC. This small town still relies on fishing, though over time it has also become a well-known tourist destination due to its pebbly beaches. Here, you can appreciate the beauty of its coves, bays, and sheer cliffs, as well as the tranquility of the sea, favored by the presence of its two small harbors: "U Scalo" and "Unna."

• STOP 8

  Pozzillo:

  From the Sicilian word Pizziddu, literally meaning a small protrusion into the sea, Pozzillo still retains its timeless charm. The original core of the town once surrounded an old 16th-century church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, which was later demolished and replaced in the 18th century by a sacred building honoring Santa Margherita. However, what truly made the town famous in the 20th century was its slightly alkaline mineral water spring, commercialized by the Acquapozzillo company. Among its admirers was even King Ferdinand I of Bulgaria. You'll love relaxing on the rocks and admiring the town center.

• STOP 9

  Torre Archirafi:

  Your journey along the coast concludes at Torre Archirafi, a delightful village named after its 14th-century watchtower. This tower, locally known as "A Turri", once served to protect the coastline from incursions. Although initially destroyed by sea erosion, it was rebuilt in the 18th century. The presence of several historic buildings and churches, alongside its natural wonders, makes Torre Archirafi an interesting destination for anyone wishing to explore authentic Sicily.