The Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro is certainly one of the most beautiful places in Sicily. Located in the north-western part of the island, it was established more than forty years ago and was the first Sicilian nature reserve. It covers an area of 7,200 hectares and a coastline of about 7 km that stretches between the territory of Castellammare del Golfo, Scopello and that of San Vito Lo Capo, alternating coves and cliffs overlooking the sea surrounded by pristine vegetation.

The Zingaro Reserve is an ideal destination both in the cold months, when you can walk along beautiful paths and hope to spot wild fauna, and during the summer, for a refreshing swim in its crystal-clear waters. In this article, we will see which are the most beautiful points of the reserve to explore by land and by sea.

What is the most beautiful cove in the Riserva dello Zingaro?

The Riserva dello Zingaro is famous for its coves of enchanting beauty where you can swim, snorkel, or simply relax in the sun.

Here is a list of the most famous coves:

• Cala Tonnarella is considered by many to be the most beautiful in the whole reserve. It is easily reachable from the north entrance (the one from the side of San Vito lo Capo) after a walk of about 700 meters. It takes its name from the Tonnara dell’Uzzo and hosts the Museum of Maritime Activities, which displays evidence and artifacts related to traditional fishing in the area.
• Cala dell’Uzzo, continuing the path towards Scopello, you reach this cove, located about 2 km from the north entrance, which takes its name from the prehistoric cave of Uzzo. It offers a breathtaking panorama with the white pebbles contrasting with the emerald green sea. Near Cala dell’Uzzo, you can visit the Museum of Rural Civilization.
• Cala Marinella is located about 3.5 km from the north entrance, almost in the center of the reserve. It is very small and wild, appreciated especially by lovers of snorkeling.
• Cala Berretta, located about 3.8 km from the north entrance, can be reached from both Scopello and San Vito Lo Capo. It offers a small gravel beach, sheltered from the winds. In the colder months, it is easy to find it completely deserted, given its distance from the two entrances.
• Cala del Varo, this splendid cove with calm and crystal-clear waters is located about 2 km from the south entrance of the reserve and is only accessible by sea.

Trekking in the Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro

The Riserva dello Zingaro is not only crystal-clear sea and coves, the path that crosses the reserve from south to north is part, in fact, of the Sentiero Italia, a network of trails over 7,000 km long that connects all the Italian regions, crossing the Alpine arc, the Apennine ridge, and the major islands. The Sentiero Italia in Sicily crosses the whole island from Trapani to Messina, passing also through the Riserva dello Zingaro. There are three trails to cross the reserve, which have increasing difficulty depending on the slope: 

the coastal path is the easiest and suitable for everyone, about 7 km long, can be covered in 2 hours (one way). Characterized by low Mediterranean scrub, broom, almond, and carob trees, it is the path that leads to the coves, perfect for an easy walk.

The mid-level path presents a moderate difficulty, lasts about 4 hours, and covers a distance of 8.5 km. It is very scenic, and in spring, it can be admired with splendid wild orchids in bloom. From this path, you can reach Borgo Cusenza, an ancient village now uninhabited but where you can stop and stay, which was located in one of the valleys of Zingaro.

The high path is very challenging and suitable for experienced walkers. It presents paths with a steep slope surrounded by broom, is 17 km long, and takes about 7 hours to complete. Crossing the high path takes you up to 914 meters above sea level, and you can enjoy breathtaking landscapes with glimpses that open towards the sea.

Zingaro Nature Reserve by boat

Exploring the Zingaro Nature Reserve by boat is one of the most exciting ways to do it. From the sea, you can enjoy a unique and privileged view of the coast and the nature of the reserve, avoiding the most crowded coves. You can also reach places accessible only by boat, caves, and wild coves, where you can swim in crystal-clear waters surrounded by a splendid panorama.

You can organize a boat excursion with a local agency or rent a private boat. You can also book a guide who illustrates the beauties of the reserve and its cultural and natural heritage.

Starting from San Vito, the reserve can be reached in about 40 minutes of navigation, but the beauty of the landscape is such that getting bored is practically impossible. The 7 coves of Zingaro follow one another for 7 km of coastline, and the viewer never manages to understand which one is the most beautiful or resist the temptation to take a swim in each one. The boat excursion can end with a visit to the Tonnara di Scopello and its imposing sea stacks for one last, unforgettable swim.

In conclusion, a visit to the Zingaro Nature Reserve is an unforgettable experience for those who love nature, the sea, and adventure, as it offers the opportunity to explore a wonderful protected area while enjoying the beauty of the Sicilian coast and its wildest landscape.