Zingaro Nature Reserve

In May 1980 several thousand people walked the route of a planned coast road between Scopello and San Vito to protest against its construction; the road was abandoned and the following year the area became Sicily's first nature reserve. Seven kilometres of coast are therefore roadless, with a main path running the length above a series of coves of white pebble and clear water, reached by short descents. Dwarf palm, the only palm native to Europe, grows across the slopes, and Bonelli's eagles nest on the cliffs. Small museums in restored buildings cover the reserve's traditional crafts and tuna fishing.

What you actually see

• The roadless coast - seven kilometres with no road, walked on a single path.
• The coves - white pebble beaches with clear water below the path.
• The dwarf palm - Europe's only native palm across the slopes.
• The rural museums - restored buildings on local crafts and fishing.

When to go

April to June and September to October; summer is very hot on an exposed path with no shade and numbers are capped. Take all the water you need.

Honest expectations

There is no vehicle access at all and no water on the route beyond the entrances. Numbers are limited and entry can close when full. Coves have no facilities.

Nearby

San Vito Lo Capo lies north; Scopello is at the southern gate.