Ustica
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 26 February 2022
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Situated around seventy five kilometres to the north of Sicilian capital Palermo, the island of Ustica is a favourite destination for divers with its rich marine life and crystal clear waters.
There is one main town on the island, known simply as Ustica, and this is where the vast majority of the 1,300 permanent inhabitants live. The attractive port area has a small selection places to eat and drink, as well as a small amount of shops. |
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You can climb the paths that lead away from the port and find yourself looking down onto it, this is one of the best places to take photos and to orientate yourself with the island's layout.
Before I visited Ustica I'd read that you can easily walk from one end to the other but I found that to be a little over-ambitious. If you have an unlimited amount of time, are extremely fit and it's a cool day then walking could be an option but to really explore properly I would recommend hiring a bicycle or a scooter, both of which are easy enough to organise once you're there.
Before I visited Ustica I'd read that you can easily walk from one end to the other but I found that to be a little over-ambitious. If you have an unlimited amount of time, are extremely fit and it's a cool day then walking could be an option but to really explore properly I would recommend hiring a bicycle or a scooter, both of which are easy enough to organise once you're there.
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Ustica is a small, stunning island located in the Tyrrhenian Sea, about 67 kilometers north of Palermo, Sicily. The island's history dates back to ancient times, and it has seen various civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Romans, and Arabs, who recognized its strategic position for trade and maritime routes.
Throughout history, Ustica was a haven for pirates, and its name comes from the Latin word "ustum," meaning "burned," possibly referring to the island's volcanic origin. Today, Ustica is known for its crystal-clear waters, underwater caves, and rich marine life, making it a popular destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.
Description: Ustica is a true gem in the Mediterranean, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and marine biodiversity. Despite being relatively small, the island packs a punch with its stunning landscapes and captivating underwater world.
Pristine Nature: Ustica is a designated marine protected area, and its terrestrial and marine ecosystems remain remarkably unspoiled. The island's coastline boasts dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and small pebbled beaches, while its interior is covered with aromatic Mediterranean vegetation.
Diving Paradise: The island's crystal-clear waters are renowned for their exceptional visibility and rich marine life. Diving enthusiasts are drawn to Ustica to explore its underwater caves, walls, and sunken shipwrecks, encountering colorful fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating marine creatures.
Marine Protected Area: Ustica's waters are part of the "Area Marina Protetta Isola di Ustica," established in 1986, covering approximately 15,000 hectares. This marine reserve aims to safeguard the island's biodiversity and promote sustainable tourism and research activities.
Archeological Sites: Ustica's history is also evident in its archeological sites, including ancient ruins and prehistoric caves, offering insights into the island's past civilizations.
Tourist Information: Location: Ustica is located in the Tyrrhenian Sea, approximately 67 kilometers north of Palermo, Sicily, and 35 kilometers off the coast of Capo Gallo.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Ustica is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the sea temperatures are suitable for swimming and diving.
Accommodation: Ustica offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and holiday rentals, catering to different budgets and preferences.
Getting There: Ustica is accessible by hydrofoil or ferry from Palermo and other ports in Sicily. The island is also served by regular flights from Palermo Falcone–Borsellino Airport.
Outdoor Activities: Besides diving and snorkeling, visitors can explore Ustica's hiking trails, go on boat tours around the island, or simply relax on its charming beaches.
Local Cuisine: Ustica's cuisine showcases fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional Sicilian dishes. The island's restaurants and trattorias offer a delightful gastronomic experience.
Preservation and Respect: As a marine protected area, visitors are encouraged to respect Ustica's fragile ecosystem and adhere to guidelines for sustainable tourism practices.
Throughout history, Ustica was a haven for pirates, and its name comes from the Latin word "ustum," meaning "burned," possibly referring to the island's volcanic origin. Today, Ustica is known for its crystal-clear waters, underwater caves, and rich marine life, making it a popular destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.
Description: Ustica is a true gem in the Mediterranean, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and marine biodiversity. Despite being relatively small, the island packs a punch with its stunning landscapes and captivating underwater world.
Pristine Nature: Ustica is a designated marine protected area, and its terrestrial and marine ecosystems remain remarkably unspoiled. The island's coastline boasts dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and small pebbled beaches, while its interior is covered with aromatic Mediterranean vegetation.
Diving Paradise: The island's crystal-clear waters are renowned for their exceptional visibility and rich marine life. Diving enthusiasts are drawn to Ustica to explore its underwater caves, walls, and sunken shipwrecks, encountering colorful fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating marine creatures.
Marine Protected Area: Ustica's waters are part of the "Area Marina Protetta Isola di Ustica," established in 1986, covering approximately 15,000 hectares. This marine reserve aims to safeguard the island's biodiversity and promote sustainable tourism and research activities.
Archeological Sites: Ustica's history is also evident in its archeological sites, including ancient ruins and prehistoric caves, offering insights into the island's past civilizations.
Tourist Information: Location: Ustica is located in the Tyrrhenian Sea, approximately 67 kilometers north of Palermo, Sicily, and 35 kilometers off the coast of Capo Gallo.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Ustica is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the sea temperatures are suitable for swimming and diving.
Accommodation: Ustica offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and holiday rentals, catering to different budgets and preferences.
Getting There: Ustica is accessible by hydrofoil or ferry from Palermo and other ports in Sicily. The island is also served by regular flights from Palermo Falcone–Borsellino Airport.
Outdoor Activities: Besides diving and snorkeling, visitors can explore Ustica's hiking trails, go on boat tours around the island, or simply relax on its charming beaches.
Local Cuisine: Ustica's cuisine showcases fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional Sicilian dishes. The island's restaurants and trattorias offer a delightful gastronomic experience.
Preservation and Respect: As a marine protected area, visitors are encouraged to respect Ustica's fragile ecosystem and adhere to guidelines for sustainable tourism practices.
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Province: Metropolitan City of Palermo
Region: Sicily Population: 1,318 Size: 8.24 km² Highlights: diving Recommended accommodation: Hotel Clelia |
Ustica Travel
The best way to reach the island is via hydrofoil from Palermo, a journey of an hour and a half. There are also maritime connections with Trapani or Naples but with longer journey times.
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Arrival port: Ustica
Journey time from Sicilian mainland: 1 hour 30 minutes Distance from nearest Sicilian mainland port: 76 km |
Arrive by: ferry, hydrofoil
Arrive from: Palermo, Trapani, Naples Best airport: Palermo Airport |
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