Full day
Among the most hidden corners and far from the mass tourism routes, an unparalleled excursion is to discover the village of Chianalea (Scilla) included in the list of the most beautiful villages in Italy. The route, starting from Riposto or Taormina, provides some stops for a dive under the Castle of Sant’Alessio and near the cape “Ali”. The crossing of the narrow is an unique emotion admiring the coasts of Sicily and Calabria that seem to touch. After a few minutes you will arrive in Chianalea, the most beautiful destination of the “purple coast” (Calabria). The ancient village is an open-air museum, dominated by the Ruffo castle, built on the mighty fortress. It is here that Count Paolo Ruffo lived and ruled the fief of Scilla from 1523, defending him from the pirate Barbarossa who wanted to land on the banks. As soon as you disembark you can walk among the tiny streets of the village, visit the ancient castle and go for lunch in one of the many restaurants on the sea. You will discover in the dishes the renewal of the ancient tradition of fishing, especially the swordfish, and you will experience an singular gastronomic emotion. On return it will be probable to come across the ancient “spadare” which fishes the traditional swordfish. Distances: from Taormina 35 Mls (2:00) – from Riposto (Porto dell’Etna) 42 Mls (2:15)
Details
Boarding: Riposto (Porto dell’Etna) or Giardini Naxos harbor
Route: Taormina Bays, S. Alessio Castle, Cape Alì, Strait of Messina, Chianalea (Scilla)
Services included: Crew, fuel, open bar (soft drinks), Sicilian seasonal fresh fruit