About 3 hours West of Modica, and not far from the Valley of the Temples is the incredible white marble cliffs called the Stair of the Turks. In ancient times it was a site where pirates – then known as turks – anchored out of the wind and laid in wait for passing ships.
The Sicilian tourist off describes it best. This white cliff is located along the stretch of sea between Realmonte and Porto Empedocle (Agrigento) and its rock is made of a soft, limestone and a blinding white marble. Nature has worked this material over time, making it soft and sinuous, with the help of the sea and the salty breeze, creating terraces and smoothing every corner. When you ascend the staircase, you will have the feeling of being in Wonderland of huge white meringue. The sea, taking advantage of this sparkling white, will be showing off her blue. It is a very intense blue, and while sitting on the steps viewing the sea, you can’t help being captivated by the breathtaking, surreal beauty. The local boys and girls can often be seen diving from the most prominent steps, competing to determine who is braver. We would not recommend imitating them but watching them can be a real show.
You can view the steps from a pull-over area above or get a much better look by driving down and parking at the beach. In season there is a restaurant and a beach to take a swim as well a short hike to the foot of the steps to do a little climbing and picture taking.
Combined with a visit to the Valley of the Temples, this is a comfortable two day trip.
