Sicily: A coastal hike between the Zingaro Nature Reserve and Scopello

First day

Our journey begins with our arrival in Castellammare del Golfo. Depending on our arrival time, we may have the opportunity to explore the town with an urban trek on our own through the narrow streets and panoramic terraces. Walking along the small port and marina, we can soak up the atmosphere of this place, where fishing traditions coexist with timeless charm. If we wish, we can visit the Ethno-Anthropological Museum, a small gem that tells the story of local history and culture through objects, work tools, and testimonies of the past. We will then meet our local guide and the rest of the group, and then the day will end with a traditional Sicilian dinner.

Second day

Coastal trekking: from Castellammare del Golfo to Scopello
We will start with the transfer to Contrada Conza to begin our trek. Here, the landscape changes with every step: white cliffs, wind-sculpted rocks, and small coves will be the backdrop for our excursion. Along the way, we will discover some of the most picturesque and secluded beaches in the area, such as Fossa dello Stinco, Cala Bianca and Cala Rossa. We will arrive at Scopello where we will have the opportunity to visit the famous Scopello Tonnara. The village is the perfect place to stop and immerse yourself in theauthentic Sicilian atmosphere. In the afternoon, we will return to the hotel by private transfer and end the day with dinner in the heart of Castellammare del Golfo, enjoying the authentic flavors of the local tradition.

Third day

Trekking to Monte Monaco and Lake Venere
We will depart for Monte Monaco, which dominates the coastline near San Vito lo Capo. This rocky massif, located a few kilometers from the Zingaro Nature Reserve, owes its name to its distinctive shape, which resembles a kneeling monk. The view from here is truly splendid: the coast from Erice to Monte Cofano, the Gulf of Castellammare and the mountains overlooking Palermo, the ridge of Monte Speziale to Monte Sparagio.
We make our way up to the top with a simple hike, walking among ancient ash trees and stone blocks. The route then takes us to visit the Lake of Venus, so named because, after the collapse of a large rock face, boulders rolled down the valley and plunged into the sea, creating a calm stretch of water: an excellent place to take a refreshing dip after our excursion with a local guide. In the afternoon, we will return to the hotel by transfer. The day will end with a free dinner, leaving us free to discover the Sicilian flavors!

Fourth day

Hiking in the Zingaro Nature Reserve
We will head to the southern entrance of the Zingaro Nature Reserve, one of most fascinating protected areas in Sicily. Our hike will be a scenic route that winds through slopes and natural terraces, climbing up to 400 meters. Along the way, we’ll pass through pristine landscapes, among dwarf palms, carob trees, and prickly pears, encountering ancient abandoned farmhouses and remnants of rural life from days gone by, until we reach the entrance to Contrada Sughero, from where we will begin our descent. We’ll walk along an easier trail that will allow us to explore some of the reserve’s most beautiful and hidden coves (such as Cala Marinella). In the afternoon, we’ll return to the hotel via private transfer. The day will conclude with dinner on your own—it’s up to us to discover Sicilian flavors!

Fifth day

After intense days of trekking between the sea crystal clear sea, scenic trails, and timeless villages, it's time to say goodbye. We will part ways in the morning, but for those who still have some time to spare, we recommend one last walk in the heart of Castellammare del Golfo: a must-see is the Museo del Mare, a special place where the owner, a former fisherman, will enchant you with fascinating stories about the ancient maritime traditions of Sicily. With our hearts full of memories, we say goodbye with the promise to meet again soon for a new experience dedicated to nature, the sea, and Sicilian traditions. See you on our next adventure!