Naturalistic path Capo Calavà
The starting point of this path is located in the road that leads to Gioiosa Marea. Along the road you will climb fascinating starcases which are dug in the rock; there you will find lanes in hardcourt sourrended by nature. Since it is a promontory overlooking the sea, you will enjoy different panoramic views from which you can admire the amazing colors of the sea and the hills. The journey ends on a rocky massif where you can enjoy suggestive sunsets from the watchtower. There you will find an equipped area where you can relax and enjoy the amazing view of Golfo di Patti and, mainly, the Eolian Island.
Falchi path
The Falchi (hawk) path leads to the hilltop of Monte Meliuso where the Castle of the oldest town Gioiosa Guardia is located. It dates back to 1364 and is sourrended by medieval village ruins. It is a must-see for history, trekking and nature lovers; also its high is a major point of touristic attraction for those who are keen on paragliding. The starting point is situated in the small district of Sorrentini and you can easily find it by following the signage. Then you will reach a small valley with an ancient Monastery wich dates back to the end of XV century and, next to it, you will also find a Tholos from the 2000 years B. C.. The path lasts about 40 minutes by foot but you can also reach it by car, through a more tortuous road.
Coda di volpe path
The Coda di volpe (fox tail) path links the Marinello’s lakes with the Tindari’s Sanctuary. Along the road you can explore rich vegetations, panoramic views on the lakes, you will enjoy the Eolian Islands on the horizon as well and on the right you can also see Capo Milazzo. The starting point of this naturalistic path is alongside the Tindari’s Sanctuary, a must-see together with the archelogical area, which is next to it. Going forward you will find the natural reserve of the Marinello’s lakes. At the end of this path you will be overwhelmed by the amazing colors of the sea and the nature and you can also see the Tindari’s promontory reflected on the lakes.
Mongiove’s bays
The tour starts from Spiaggia delle Grotte of Mongiove through a tunnel dug by the sea. First you have to go through two suggestive rocks, whose reflections make water sparkle like emerald, then you will arrive to Grotte, that allow you to go from one bay to the other one. Going forward you will arrive to Spiaggia di Valle, which is characterised by rokcs with singular shapes and by natural arches (gneiss and paragneiss rocks, dated back to 200/300 million years ago). Then you will find Spiaggia Grotte di Mariano, named after Maria’s followers because they used to take refuge there during religious wars. It is possibile to reach the other bay by swimming for those who are keen on it, while for those who prefer going by foot, it is possibile to arrive there through breath-taking pathways. These rocks are also famous for dwarf palms. The last beach is called Spiaggia dei Gabbiani (sea-gulls) because of the huge number of these birds, whose presence is probably due to the geographic position. Afterwards you will find many bays and, finally, you will arrive to the wonderful natural reserve of Laghetti di Marinello. The stunning colour of the bright water and the vegetation offer breath-taking views.
* This path takes the whole morning; it can be made by foot, by swimming and by canoe on calm sea days.
