Riserva dello Zingaro, Trapani

Sicily

Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro near San Vito Lo Capo is Sicily's first (and most visited) nature reserve — 7 km of coast without roads, with crystal coves (Cala Marinella, Cala dell'Uzzo), Bonelli's eagle nesting, and fossil sea caves with prehistoric deposits. The Sicilian wildcat is occasionally seen. The reserve was established in 1981 after a massive popular protest blocked a road construction. Dogs on leash.

Duration

4 hours

Distance

10 km

Elevation

+300 m

Best season

March – October

Highlights

Sicily's first nature reserve — established after public protest blocked road building in 1981
Bonelli's eagle nesting — rare raptor on the cliff above the coves
7 km of roadless coast with fossil caves and crystal water