Zingaro Nature Reserve hiking
Tucked between **Scopello and San Vito Lo Capo** on Sicily’s northwestern coast, the **Zingaro Nature Reserve (Riserva Naturale Orientata dello Zingaro)** is one of the island’s most stunning coastal sanctuaries. With turquoise coves, limestone cliffs, and Mediterranean flora, it’s a paradise for hikers, swimmers, and nature lovers alike.
- Visit Sicily
- 3 min read
Zingaro Nature Reserve Hiking Guide
🌿 Overview
Established in 1981 as Sicily’s first nature reserve, Zingaro spans about 7 kilometers of unspoiled coastline along the Gulf of Castellammare. The area was saved from development thanks to a strong local environmental movement, preserving one of the last stretches of Sicily’s coast free from roads or modern construction.
Zingaro is characterized by crystal-clear water, rugged cliffs, and rich biodiversity, including more than 650 plant species and over 40 bird species, such as peregrine falcons and Bonelli’s eagles.
🥾 Hiking Trails
The reserve features three main hiking routes — each offering unique perspectives of the coastline.
1. Coastal Trail (Sentiero Costiero)
- Distance: ~7 km one way (Scopello to San Vito Lo Capo)
- Duration: 2.5–3.5 hours one way (6–7 hours round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: turquoise coves, ancient shepherd huts, and panoramic sea views.
- Along the way, you’ll pass stunning coves such as:
- Cala Tonnarella dell’Uzzo (closest to the south entrance)
- Cala dell’Uzzo
- Cala Marinella
- Cala Berretta
- Cala della Disa
- Cala del Varo
Each cove offers a chance to swim in clear, calm waters surrounded by cliffs and wild olive trees.
2. Mid-Level Trail (Sentiero di Mezza Costa)
- Distance: ~8 km
- Duration: 3–4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Highlights: views over the entire coastline, with access to old farmhouses and shepherd paths.
3. High Trail (Sentiero Alto)
- Distance: ~17 km
- Duration: Full day hike (6–8 hours)
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Highlights: panoramic views from Mount Speziale (913 m) and encounters with Sicily’s mountain flora.
🏖️ Swimming and Relaxation
Between hikes, stop for a dip in one of Zingaro’s coves — each with its own character:
- Cala Tonnarella dell’Uzzo: the most famous and accessible beach, known for its emerald water.
- Cala Berretta: smaller and quieter.
- Cala del Varo: accessible only by boat or a longer trail — perfect for solitude.
Bring water shoes, as most beaches are pebbly.
🌺 Flora and Fauna
Zingaro’s Mediterranean vegetation includes olive trees, carob, dwarf palms, and wild orchids. Birdwatchers can spot peregrine falcons, buzzards, and kingfishers. The clear waters teem with fish, making it ideal for snorkeling.
📍 Practical Information
- Entrances: South (Scopello) and North (San Vito Lo Capo)
- Opening hours: roughly sunrise to sunset; vary by season.
- Entry fee: around €5 (cash only).
- Facilities: limited — bring water, snacks, and sun protection.
- No shops or restaurants inside the reserve.
🚗 Getting There
- By car: from Trapani or Palermo, follow signs to Scopello or San Vito Lo Capo.
- Parking: available at both entrances.
- By public transport: limited bus connections (best to visit by car).
💡 Travel Tips
- Visit in spring or autumn for mild weather and blooming wildflowers.
- Summer visits are best early in the morning to avoid heat.
- Bring plenty of water (at least 2 L per person).
- Snorkeling gear and a waterproof bag enhance the experience.
🧭 Summary
The Zingaro Nature Reserve is a jewel of untouched Sicily, offering the perfect blend of hiking, swimming, and breathtaking scenery. Walking along its sunlit paths, you’ll discover wild coves, limestone cliffs, and the raw Mediterranean beauty that makes Zingaro one of the island’s most unforgettable natural treasures.