Unspoiled coastal nature reserve with coves, sea stacks and a former tuna fishery.
Scopello is a tiny coastal hamlet about 70-75 km (43-47 miles) west of Palermo, on the Gulf of Castellammare, with a former tuna fishery (the Tonnara di Scopello) and the Faraglioni sea stacks rising from the water. The Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro, Sicily's first nature reserve (established in 1980), starts a short distance away and protects about 7 km of unspoiled coast with pebble coves, hiking paths and a small museum. The coast trail between the two entrances (Scopello and San Vito lo Capo) takes about two to three hours one way, passing coves such as Cala Capreria and Cala della Disa, which are good for swimming. The entrance fee is about EUR 5 (~$5.75) as reported. No public transport works well for a day trip; a hire car on the A29 and SS187 takes about 1 hour 10 minutes, and parking is at the Scopello entrance. In summer, car parks fill early. Swimmers should bring water shoes and drinking water, because there are no shops inside the reserve. Fires are forbidden, and visitors should carry out their rubbish. Late spring and early autumn avoid summer crowds and extreme heat.
| Distance | 70-75 km (43-47 miles) west of Palermo |
|---|---|
| Travel time | About 1h 10min by car |
| Getting there | Driving from Palermo via the A29 and SS187 to Scopello, about 1h 10min; limited public transport |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Address | Baglio di Scopello, 91014 Castellammare del Golfo TP |
How to get there
- Driving: A29 and SS187, about 1h 10min; parking at the Scopello entrance
- Limited coach and local bus options; check locally
- Organised excursions from Palermo operate in summer
Location
Baglio di Scopello, 91014 Castellammare del Golfo TP
38.0728, 12.8043 View on map
Highlights
- Tonnara di Scopello and the Faraglioni sea stacks
- Riserva dello Zingaro coast trail with pebble coves
- Swimming at Cala Capreria and Cala della Disa
- Natural history museum inside the reserve
- Panoramic views over the Gulf of Castellammare
Tips for visiting
- Arrive early, as car parks fill by mid-morning in summer
- Bring water, a hat and water shoes; there are no shops inside the reserve
- Wear sturdy shoes for the coast trail
- Check opening hours and fees at the entrance
- Take rubbish away and respect fire bans
When to visit
May-June and September for swimming without extreme heat.
Accessibility
The coastal trails are unpaved and uneven, not suitable for wheelchairs; the Scopello village area has some level ground.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Scopello from Palermo?
About 70-75 km, around 1 hour 10 minutes by car.
How much does the Zingaro reserve cost?
About EUR 5 per person as reported; confirm at the entrance.
How long is the coastal trail?
About 7 km, two to three hours one way between entrances.
Can it be reached by bus?
Public transport options are limited; a hire car is the practical choice.