Natural reserves of Sicily

Sicily is not only crystal-clear sea and art cities: it is a mosaic of landscapes that guard unique natural treasures in the Mediterranean. The island, a land of light and contrasts, counts over 70 natural reserves stretching from mountain peaks to dramatic sea cliffs. These biodiversity sanctuaries are the beating heart of sustainable tourism, where every path becomes a story and every view an invitation to discovery.

Western Sicily: among trails, salt pans and suspended landscapes

The journey through Sicily’s natural reserves can begin on the western coast, where nature designs unforgettable sceneries. The Zingaro Nature Reserve, with its seven kilometers of trails overlooking the sea, offers turquoise coves and the intense scents of Mediterranean scrub.

Not far away, the Trapani and Paceco Salt Pans unveil a landscape suspended between water and sky, animated by flamingos and windmills slowly turning like time itself. In this same area, nature surprises with the golden dunes of the Platani River, the cliffs of Monte Cofano, the seabeds of Capo Gallo and the wetlands of Lake Preola and Gorghi Tondi. Completing the picture are Monte Pellegrino, the Stagnone of Marsala and Capo Rama, each guardian of precious habitats.

Eastern Sicily: the sea of submerged canyons and ancient tuna fisheries

Heading east, Sicily reveals its marine soul. The Plemmirio Marine Protected Area, south of Syracuse, is an underwater realm of canyons, posidonia meadows and unique biodiversity, a paradise for divers and snorkelers.

Further south, the Vendicari Reserve blends nature and historical memory: among dunes, lagoons and ancient tuna fisheries, it is easy to encounter herons, storks and flamingos. Here the coast also unveils two of Italy’s most fascinating beaches, Eloro and Calamosche, true paradises of golden sand and crystal waters.

Inland Sicily: canyons, forests and rock necropolises

Moving away from the sea, the hinterland surprises with unexpected landscapes. The Cavagrande del Cassibile Reserve protects deep canyons and natural pools carved in the rock, while the Valley of Pantalica intertwines archaeology and nature: the rock necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dominates the Anapo river gorges creating a unique scenario.

Further north, the Nebrodi, Madonie and Sicani Mountains safeguard ancient forests, waterfalls and timeless villages; on Etna, the force of the volcano merges with woods and lava flows, shaping an ever-changing landscape. The Simeto and Alcantara Gorges, with their spectacular gorges, complete the picture of a rich and surprising inland.

Southern Sicily: wild beaches and valuable wetlands

The southern coast alternates unspoiled beaches and reserves of great natural value. The Torre Salsa Reserve, with its white cliffs and transparent sea, is a biodiversity sanctuary managed by WWF. The Biviere of Gela and the Pantani of South-Eastern Sicily host important migratory routes, while the Irminio River Mouth preserves one of the last stretches of wild coastline in the region. These places are true natural treasures, perfect for those seeking an authentic bond with the island’s wildest soul.

Authentic Sicily: a journey between nature and identity

Each natural reserve in Sicily is much more than a place to visit: it is a page of an endless story where nature blends with history, traditions and the life of local communities. Visiting them means discovering not only extraordinary landscapes but also the deepest soul of Sicily.

A journey through Sicily’s natural reserves thus becomes an authentic, sustainable and unique experience: a way to live the island respecting its rhythms, embracing its contrasts and helping to safeguard its beauty for the future.