Explore the Cyclops Riviera, north of Catania

Via Lungomare Dei Ciclopi, 183, 95021 Aci Trezza CT, Italy

The Cyclops Riviera (Riviera dei Ciclopi) is a 12-kilometer stretch of coastline north of the beautiful city of Catania, stretching from Acireale to Aci Castello. This amazing coastline is named after several legends about the huge rocks that lie on the surface of the sea, some of them even reaching 70 meters high.

In fact, there are many different legends about these rocks all related to the one-eyed god Cyclops Polyphemus, the giant son of Poseidon. According to one legend, Polyphemus threw these rocks into the sea to show his rage against Ulysses. But another legend has it that a shepherd named Aci and Polyphemus both fell in love with Galatea, a goddess of the sea. Blinded by jealousy, Polyphemus kills Aci and throws a rock at him. Galatea prayed to the gods to return her beloved Aci, so the gods turned Aci into a river that flows into the sea through the small beach where Aci and Galatea once met. Today, most of the towns located on this coast (Acireale, Aci Castello, Aci Trezza and others) have names associated with the name Aci.

The shoreline and nearby rocks are part of a protected area with a rich variety of flora and fauna, beautiful seabeds and lush underwater vegetation. This area also has many poetic natural scenes, created by volcanic eruptions from prehistoric times with cobalt blue sea water.

Starting in Catania, Aci Castello is a very nice little village built around the eleventh century Norman Castle. From the main square of Aci Castello you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Cyclops Riviera coast. It's the perfect place to stroll around the narrow alleys and 17th-century buildings or relax on lava-laden beaches or on the piers along the sea.

From here, you can drive 6 kilometers north and reach Aci Trezza, another popular fishing village, with picturesque beaches and a beautiful marine reserve where you can swim and admire the fish. variety of colors and aquatic plant life.

The town of Acireale sits high on the rocky coast and is well worth a visit. The town is built on old lava flows and has an old square with a Baroque church. In Roman times, it was known as a spa town, and thermal baths are still in use today. It is also famous for its Sicilian puppet theater and museum and is also home to the early spring Carnevale which is said to be the best in Sicily.

The Aci River empties into the sea at Capo Mulini, a small fishing village with restaurants serving seafood and fresh fish, which is a favorite place for visitors to stop for lunch. The waters off Capo Mulini were the setting for naval battles fought between Carthage and Syracuse and later the Roman civil wars.

The Cyclops Riviera coast is the perfect place for a picnic during your stay in the beautiful island of Sicily.

Book tour Car rental Flight Visa Book Guide Gifts & Products

Nearby attractions

Etna Volcano

Etna Volcano is a famous landmark, attracting a large number of tourists when coming to Sicily. The volcano Etna is visible from Taormina and Catania and even from many other places on the island. However, it will be a pity if visitors miss the opportunity to climb to the top and admire the crater.

Explore the Cyclops Riviera, north of Catania

Aeolian Islands

Located in the Mediterranean to the north of Sicily, the Aeolian is one of Europe's most historically fascinating archipelagos. Each of the seven volcanic islands has its own distinct character, allowing for a wide range of fun activities for visitors.

Ortigia Island

Ortigia is considered the heart of Syracuse with many impressive monuments and beautiful short roads, is a destination chosen by many tourists when stopping in beautiful Italy.