Cyclops Riviera @ Ease

by coach & on foot

This experience gives you a good understanding of the Catania region and beautiful surrounding coastline.

Leaving the city behind, you first drive north from Catania, along the Ionian coast to the famous “Cyclops Riviera”. This beautiful riviera stretches approximately 12km (7miles) along the coast that runs from Aci Castello to Acireale. The Cyclops Riviera and the nearby boulders or “Faraglioni” are part of a protected marine area featuring great varieties of flora and fauna, a beautiful seabed with lush underwater vegetation.

This renowned coastline is linked to numerous different legends about the boulders and huge rocks that look like they sprout out of the sea, some of them stand up to 70m (200ft) high. Many of these tales are linked to Polyphemus, the giant son of Poseidon and one of the Cyclopes.

Continuing your journey, you pass through the villages of Aci Castello with its famous Norman Castle of black lava; Aci Trezza - a small fishing village; and Acireale with its magnificent Gothic Cathedral. A short photo stop will be made at Acicastello and Acireale.

Returning to Catania via the motorway you will have a short exploration of the town by coach along the city’s main streets before returning at the pier.