| As we had most of the day free before leaving for the airport, Al
& Jane kindly organised an extra walk for us. Our first visit was to the Alcantara Gorge. 200+ steps
took us down to the river but heavy rainfall on previous days
limited the distance we could explore. After taking time to explore
the fractured rock, formed by the rapid cooling of the lava, we
climbed back up the steps to
begin the main walk of the day. Initially wide and later narrow
tracks took us to the
highest point of the walk with good views down the
valley to the sea. It was then a short walk to Motta Camastra where
we re-grouped in the village square. This was the ideal spot to
celebrate Dave and Jen’s 50th wedding anniversary. (Al and Jane had
carried 3 bottles of champagne for this purpose!) We then headed to
the restaurant and lunch on the terrace (previously organised by Al
& Jane). The excellent meal was a
great way to celebrate a great week's walking before making our way down mule tracks, quite
steep at times, and back to Francavilla. A quick shower and cases
collected and we were on our way home. A great holiday in all
respects. |
The Alcantara Gorge from the lookout
and on the descent
The group takes a look . . .
at the rock formations . . .
and water worn areas
Time to retrace our steps . . .
and take a quick shot down river
On the main walk there are views of Castiglione . . .
smaller side craters on the slopes of Mt Etna . . .
and more views of the summit . . .
which I just can't resist
The highest point of the walk . . .
with views to the coast
Motta Camastra is a warren of little streets . . .
but the town square turns out to be the perfect spot . . .
to celebrate Dave and Jen's 50th wedding anniversary . . .
with bubbly carried up by Al and Jane
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A toast to . . .
Dave and Jen . . .
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Lunch on the terrace . . .
but Mt Etna has the last word (or photo)