Last Updated on 31 May 2024
The Riserva dell Zingaro is one of the very few places in Sicily that is not contaminated by the presence of a coastal road. It is a fantastic place, located between San Vito Lo Capo and Scopello, which has remained intact over time where nature reigns supreme. But just think that in 1976 the works for the construction of the road had begun, but these works were blocked due to the strong protests of the environmental associations.
.jpg){kind=link}
The landscape is dominated by the Mediterranean scrub, especially the typical dwarf palm and the presence of fantastic coves. Here it is possible not only to swim immersed in nature in a Caribbean sea, but also to visit museums, caves and admire beautiful views.
In all this you will not be alone, in fact there are many small animals that live in these parts, such as wild boars, rabbits, weasels, foxes, hedgehogs, eagles and hawks. In this regard, below is a video from the summer of 2018 with wild boar cubs bathing with tourists.
How to get to the Riserva dello Zingaro and what to see
The entrances to the reserve are 2, one near San Vito Lo Capo and one near Scopello .
Admission: 5 Euros, opening hours: from 7:00 to 19:30.
Bring water, tennis shoes, beach shoes and a mask for snokerling.
Here is now a list of the 3 possible routes to take.
Coastal trail
The coastal path , green in color, is the main one and the most frequented by visitors and connects the southern entrance of Scopello with the northern one of San Vito Lo Capo. The one-way distance is 7 km, about 2 hours of walking. The first coves are however located about 10 minutes walk from each entrance. Near the entrance to San Vito Lo Capo, you will find the Cala Tonnarella dell’Uzzo , next to the other, near Scopello, the Cala Capreria .
From contrada Uzzo, a short detour uphill also leads to Uzzo Cave, where traces of early man and prehistoric lion rhinoceroses and mammoths have been found . Less than 300 meters from the cave is the Museum of Rural Life , which preserves evidence of the wheat cycle and examples of the weaving techniques of native vegetable fibers.
Mid-coast trail
It is the most panoramic one , has a journey of 8.5 km and lasts 4h and 30 minutes (one way). Following this path you will pass through small woods, meadows, ancient rural villages and enjoy a breathtaking view.
High Path
This path is the most challenging, it is 17.5 km long and lasts 7h (one way). You will pass through pine and holm oak woods, Mediterranean steppes and you will be able to admire an ancient drinking trough, dating back to 1696.
What to see in the surroundings
The Riserva dello Zingaro is located in the province of Trapani. Here you will find listed the places to visit in Trapani and surroundings .
Typical dishes of the area
Here you can find some tips on what to eat in Trapani and surroundings , here instead you find the typical Sicilian dishes.