ZINGARO NATURE RESERVE
HIKING AND SWIMMING IN THE BEAUTIFUL ZINGARO NATURE RESERVE
Another must-see site in western Sicily is the Zingaro Nature Reserve. We recommend it because it combines activity and relaxation.
Active, as it involves following the various hiking trails in the park.
But also relaxation because you can stop anytime at numerous empty beaches in colors of green, sandy and turquoise.
We would say that this trip is something between climbing Monte Cofano and sunbathing on the beach of San Vito Lo Capo.
The main entrance to the park is north from the village of Scopello, but you can also access it from the other end, south of San Vito lo Capo. Note that you cannot reach these 2 points directly, you will have to make a big detour. Take this into account if you intend to follow up with another site during the day.
The village of Scopello is a nice place to see too. The little town is cute and you can stop there to have a spritz and enjoy some local pastry. Be aware that in August it’s very touristy.
But Scopello is also famous for its private beach of La Tonnara. The entrance costs a few euros but the place has a postcard landscape. There is a little tuna museum and small hiking trail to the ruins on the to of the rock. Also snorkeling between the rocks is interesting. There is no beach though.
So one of the two entrances to Zingaro Reserve is next by this La Tonnara corner.
Inside the reserve you will find no water or food so bring your own snacks and drinks.
The entrance costs 5 euros and pets are not allowed in the park. It’s possible leave them in cages at the entrance but they are quite nasty and we’d rather just leave pets at home.
You will have the choice between several routes, it is up to you to choose according to how long you wish to spend in the park. Mind that the highest path offers the most beautiful views but there is more hiking upwards and it’s further from the beaches.
The lowest trail runs along all the beaches. There are about ten of them, and the further you go from the entrance, the fewer people you will meet by the shore. So it may be worth walking a bit more before taking your first swim break.
There are also boat trips from San Vito lo Capo or Castellamare del Golfo. By choosing that option you can stop by and snorkel in places that are normally inaccessible. But to be honest, we have never tested that activity so can’t tell much about it.
Travel time from the spot: 50 min
Distance: 65 km