Riserva dello Zingaro Coastal Trail

The Riserva Naturale Orientata dello Zingaro, established in 1981 as Sicily's first nature reserve, protects about 7 km of rugged coast in Trapani province, roughly 75 km west of Palermo. The southern entrance lies at Contrada Uzzo near Scopello, in the municipality of Castellammare del Golfo, and the northern entrance is near San Vito Lo Capo. By car from Palermo the drive takes about 1 hour 15 minutes via the A29; alternatively a bus runs from Palermo to Castellammare del Golfo or Scopello, followed by a taxi or walk to the gate. Parking is available near the entrances, and an entrance fee of about EUR 5 (roughly $6) is charged. The main coastal path runs about 7 km between the two entrances and takes 4 to 6 hours with stops, rising to roughly 100 to 150 m above the sea before dropping to pebble coves. Technical difficulty is moderate: the track is wide dirt and stone with short climbs, no scrambling, but little shade and strong sun. Landmarks along the way include the Tonnara dello Scopello area near the start, several small museums set in old farm buildings, and a series of coves such as Cala Capreria, Cala della Disa and Cala Marinella, where visitors swim in clear water from rocky beaches. Water is limited, with only a few fountains along the route, so visitors usually carry their own supply. There are no overnight huts, though a few small shelters and seasonal refreshments exist near the entrances. Sensible turn-around points are any of the coves, from which the same path leads back, since the reserve is a long linear walk and returning from the far entrance requires transport arrangements. The reserve can close in periods of extreme fire danger, so visitors should check conditions before travelling, and pets and bicycles are restricted.