Aci Castello to Aci Trezza Seafront Walk

The Aci Castello to Aci Trezza walk is a flat seafront promenade along the lava coast north of Catania, in the province of Catania, Sicily, often called the Riviera dei Ciclopi. It starts near the Lungomare Cristoforo Colombo in Aci Castello (95021), beside the Norman castle built on a basalt cliff, and runs about 2 km (1.2 miles) one way to the fishing village of Aci Trezza, taking about 1 hour. City and regional buses connect Catania with Aci Castello, and the current line can be checked at amt.catania.it; by car the trip takes around 20 to 30 minutes, with paid and street parking in both towns. No permit is required. The walk is flat, with no significant elevation gain, so it suits all ages and fitness levels and counts as easy. The surface is a mix of paved promenade, pavement and short sections of rougher lava rock near the shore. Shade is limited, so midday in July and August is hot and exposed, and visitors usually prefer mornings or evenings. Landmarks include the Castello Normanno at Aci Castello, built on a dark basalt cliff above the sea, the working harbour, the lava rocks along the shore and, at Aci Trezza, the Cyclops sea stacks (the Isole dei Ciclopi), which are linked to the myth of Polyphemus in Homer's Odyssey. Swimming is possible from rocky platforms in summer, which is why swimwear is optional. Cafes, gelaterie, restaurants and water are easy to find along the route and in both villages, so no special supplies are needed. The walk can be extended to the marine protected area viewpoints around the sea stacks or shortened by returning by bus from any stop. Because it is open and coastal, wind and swell can make the shore rocks slippery, and walkers should take care near the water. Sunset is a popular time for the walk, with the castle and sea stacks lit by low light.