Hotels near Riserva dello Zingaro

The Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro (Via Nazionale 19, San Vito Lo Capo, entrance at Scopello or San Vito side) is Sicily's first protected nature reserve, established in 1981 after local residents physically blocked a planned coastal road. The 7 km coastal trail through the reserve passes seven small coves (Cala dell'Uzzo, Cala Capreria, Cala Marinella, Cala Beretta, and others) with water of exceptional clarity over white and grey pebble beaches. There is no vehicle access; the only way in is on foot from the two entrances (Scopello entrance in the south, San Vito entrance in the north).

Entry costs 5 EUR. The reserve is open year-round (8 AM to 7 PM in summer). The best beach within the reserve is Cala dell'Uzzo (3 km from the Scopello entrance), a sheltered pebble cove with water clear enough to see 8-10 metres down. There are no facilities inside the reserve beyond basic toilet blocks; bring all food, water, and sun protection.

Pro Tip: Enter from the Scopello side (Via Cristoforo Colombo, 91014 Scopello) and walk to Cala dell'Uzzo (3 km, 1 hour) for the best and least crowded cove in the reserve. The snorkelling off the pebble beach is exceptional - visibility of 8-10 metres with dense posidonia seagrass beds visible at depth. Stay overnight in Scopello village (1 km from the entrance) to be first in at 8 AM before day visitors arrive.