Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 6 January 2024
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The Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro is one of the major visitor attractions of Sicily. Situated within the Province of Trapani and belonging to the Comune of San Vito, it consists of a magical stretch of coastline interspersed with spectacular beaches.
The reserve can only be accessed on foot and takes around two hours in each direction, which makes it popular with hikers. |
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There are two entrances which can be reached by road, each with a car park. The northern entrance is convenient to drive to from San Vito Lo Capo while the southern entrance can be reached along the road from the seaside town of Castellammare del Golfo or from the beach at La Tonnara di Scopello. Most people choose to park at either one of the car parks, hike the two hours or so to the opposite end and then hike back to the car park, making for a round-trip of around 4 or 5 hours.
Of course, another option is to simply park yourself on one of the beaches for the day. Among the best of the eight or so beaches in the reserve are Cala Capreria and Cala Tonnarella dell'Uzzo.
Places of interest nearby include Macari Beach, La Tonnara di Scopello and Guidaloca Beach while Palermo Airport is an hour and a half away by car, a distance of 97 kilometres. The recommended accommodation for the reserve is the Hotel La Tavernetta which is situated close to the southern car park in the village of Scopello.
Of course, another option is to simply park yourself on one of the beaches for the day. Among the best of the eight or so beaches in the reserve are Cala Capreria and Cala Tonnarella dell'Uzzo.
Places of interest nearby include Macari Beach, La Tonnara di Scopello and Guidaloca Beach while Palermo Airport is an hour and a half away by car, a distance of 97 kilometres. The recommended accommodation for the reserve is the Hotel La Tavernetta which is situated close to the southern car park in the village of Scopello.
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Profile
The Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro, also known as the Zingaro Nature Reserve, is a stunning natural area located on the northwestern coast of Sicily, Italy.
Established in 1981, it was the first natural reserve to be created in Sicily and remains one of the island's most cherished protected areas. The reserve covers an area of approximately 7 square miles (1,600 hectares) and is characterized by its rugged coastal landscapes, pristine beaches, and diverse flora and fauna.
Established in 1981, it was the first natural reserve to be created in Sicily and remains one of the island's most cherished protected areas. The reserve covers an area of approximately 7 square miles (1,600 hectares) and is characterized by its rugged coastal landscapes, pristine beaches, and diverse flora and fauna.
History
The creation of the Zingaro Nature Reserve was driven by the need to protect the unique and fragile ecosystems of the area from urbanization and human impact.
Before its establishment, the region was threatened by development projects that could have irreversibly damaged its natural beauty and biodiversity. Environmentalists, local communities, and conservationists rallied together to advocate for the preservation of this exceptional natural heritage, leading to the establishment of the reserve.
Before its establishment, the region was threatened by development projects that could have irreversibly damaged its natural beauty and biodiversity. Environmentalists, local communities, and conservationists rallied together to advocate for the preservation of this exceptional natural heritage, leading to the establishment of the reserve.
Key features
- Scenic Hiking Trails: The Zingaro Nature Reserve offers a network of well-marked hiking trails that wind through its breathtaking landscapes. The trails provide stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, rugged cliffs, and lush vegetation. Hiking is one of the best ways to explore the reserve and discover its hidden coves and secluded beaches.
- Crystal-Clear Waters: The reserve boasts some of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in Sicily. Visitors can enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean, surrounded by unspoiled nature.
- Diverse Flora and Fauna: The Zingaro Nature Reserve is home to a rich variety of plant and animal species, including rare and endemic ones. The flora includes Mediterranean shrubs, wildflowers, and aromatic herbs. Birdwatchers can spot various bird species, and lucky visitors may even encounter foxes, weasels, and hedgehogs.
- Cultural and Archeological Sites: The reserve is not only a haven for nature enthusiasts but also a place of cultural and historical interest. Along the hiking trails, visitors can find ancient cave dwellings, evidence of the area's past human presence. These caves were once used by prehistoric communities and later by shepherds.
Visitor Information
- Location: The Zingaro Nature Reserve is located on the northwestern coast of Sicily, between the towns of Scopello and San Vito Lo Capo.
- Opening Hours: The reserve is usually open year-round, but it is recommended to check the specific opening hours before visiting, as they may vary depending on the season.
- Admission Fee: There is a small entrance fee to access the Zingaro Nature Reserve. The funds collected contribute to the conservation and maintenance of the protected area.
Riserva Naturale Orientata dello Zingaro
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Comune: San Vito Lo Capo
Province: Trapani Region: Sicily Size: 16 km² Close by: Macari Beach, La Tonnara di Scopello, Guidaloca Beach Fly to: Palermo Airport - 1 hour 31 minutes (97 km) Recommended accommodation: Hotel La Tavernetta |
Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro Gallery
Riserva dello Zingaro Beaches
Cala Tonnarella dell'Uzzo, Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro, Sicily
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