Gurrida lake in Randazzo

Gurrida Lake in Randazo is located in the territory of Etna Park . It is a real jewel and is the only wetland in the whole area. Yes is originated in 1536 , after one of the many volcanic eruptions, which blocked the normal course of the Torrente Flascio. Due to the impediment, the waters poured onto a plain at an altitude of 800 metres, where over the years neighboring populations have planted vineyards.

The landscape is very different according to the seasons, in fact in summer the lake withdraws and is limited to filling a artificial basin , while during the winter and spring with the melting of the snow, the Torrente Flascio brings a greater quantity of water which fills the entire plain, also inundating the cultivated part and submerging the vineyards for up to 3-4 metres.

Considering the natural beauty of this place, the Etna Park has decided to create a nature trail . A beautiful route about two kilometers long that crosses countryside and woods, easy to explore even for the disabled, thanks to numbered observation points and precise indications for better orientation.

Lake Gurrida in Randazzo: the nature trail

The nature trail begins by passing the gate of the Gurrida farm, which allows you to enjoy the typical setting of the ancient Etna farms . At this point we arrive at the vineyards which are submerged by the water of the stream during the winter and spring. The vines have become accustomed to what happens every year in these places and make the best of the situation by transmitting very particular organoleptic characteristics to the grapes, which are ultimately reflected in the quality of the wines.

The panorama at this point of the path is very beautiful with Etna standing out on the horizon. The limits of the lake are clearly visible and it is easy to guess the volcanic origin due to stringed lava e slabs which delimit the perimeter. The itinerary continues skirting the vineyards, and walking you arrive at the edge of the artificial basin, on the banks of which there are poplars and marsh reeds. This area was created in the 70s and is the only part of Lake Gurrida that remains intact even during the summer, with the water representing a source of life for migratory birds.

The place is perfect for practicing birdwatching , as in this precise portion of the lake nests the pendulum, the crow and migratory birds such as herons, ducks and egrets. The greatest presences are recorded in winter and gods have in fact been made sheds from which it is possible to spot storks, lapwings, gossips and fighters.
There are also many amphibians and reptiles, including the pond turtle, which finds shelter in aquatic environments and among the roots of the willows or water cloves that grow in this place.

Lake Gurrida in Randazzo: what to see nearby

Near the Gurrida lake there are many other environmental and cultural attractions that allow you to complete the visit of this area.
Il Sciarone multipurpose park it is the green lung of the city of Randazzo. It is located a few kilometers from the city center and is also part of the Etna Park. It is possible to go on excursions and walks to be able to admire nature and the remains of the lava flows that have transformed the morphology of these territories from up close.

Flora enthusiasts will appreciate the presence of birch, chestnut and downy oak trees, while those who prefer fauna will be happy to spot hedgehogs, foxes, porcupines and wild rabbits. It features a picnic area with cooking points, tables and toilets, to meet the needs of all visitors. Also in Randazzo, precisely in Piazza Santa Maria, there is the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta. Inside there are treasures of inestimable value and it has rather interesting origins.

It is said that it was built where there was a cave in which a local shepherd saw a flame burning in front of the image of a Madonna, which no one had ever seen before. Completed in 1239, it has a Frederick Gothic style, with evident French and Islamic influences.

Il Royal Palace o Scala house , is located in the historic district of San Martino and was built by the last Norman kings who exercised their influence on Randazzo. The palace was built in the Gothic style, with three floors and several mullioned windows. After the earthquake of 1693 the third floor was lowered and subsequently with the demolition of the second floor some windows were converted into large modern windows.

Lake Gurrida in Randazzo: how to get there

Lake Gurrida is easily reached by taking the A18 motorway. Those arriving from Messina or Catania after taking the A18 must take the Fiumefreddo di Sicilia exit, merge onto the SS120 and follow the signs for Randazzo. Once you have passed Murazzo Rotto, the road signs leading to the nature trail will appear. As soon as you reach the entrance, you will have to park your car and continue the path on foot to Lake Gurrida.