Catania & Cyclops Riviera

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 coastal villages of 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 you embark on a short, guided walk taking in the Piazza del Duomo and the central piazza with the elephant’s fountain. This dates from the 1730’s when locals revered a basalt elephant called “U Liotru”. The elephant was said to possess magical powers and the ability to predict the eruptions of nearby Mt. Etna.

During your walk you will make an inside visit to the Cathedral – originally built by the Normans with its finely made choir stalls. You will also pass by the Roman Theatre and Via Crociferi - generally considered to be the heart of Catania's baroque historic centre.

Enjoy a short amount of free time in the city before re-joining your coach for the return transfer to the port.