Hike in the Riserva Naturale Orientata dello Zingaro

DESCRIPTION
Between coves and blooms: the complete itinerary of the Zingaro Nature Reserve.

Geographical Location
The Riserva Naturale Orientata dello Zingaro is a natural gem located west of the Gulf of Castellammare, between the municipalities of Castellammare del Golfo and San Vito Lo Capo in the province of Trapani. With its 7 km of pristine coastline and nearly 1,700 hectares of land, this reserve represents one of the last stretches of Sicilian coastline free from coastal roads. A place where nature reigns supreme, offering landscapes ranging from steep sea cliffs to hills covered in Mediterranean scrub.

Hike
The route we propose is a loop itinerary, perfect for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of Zingaro. The hike starts from the North Entrance of San Vito Lo Capo, following the Sentiero di Mezza Costa (Mid-Coast Trail) on the way out and returning via the Sentiero Costiero (Coastal Trail).
Although the hike presents no technical difficulties, it is classified as challenging due to its length. Therefore, it is advisable to tackle it with a good level of fitness.
Access to the reserve is regulated and requires an entrance fee, with opening hours from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
The Sentiero di Mezza Costa is the most panoramic: it reaches a maximum altitude of about 400 meters, offering extraordinary views of the coastline below and the Gulf of Castellammare. As early as late winter, this trail transforms into a carpet of flowers, with colors and scents that make the experience even more magical.
On the return, the Sentiero Costiero will lead you along the 7 km of coastline connecting the South Entrance of Scopello to the North Entrance of San Vito Lo Capo. Along the way, you will encounter seven coves of rare beauty: Cala Capreria, Cala del Varo, Cala della Disa, Cala Berretta, Cala Marinella, Cala dell’Uzzo, and Cala Tonnarella dell'Uzzo. Each cove invites you to stop, take a swim, and enjoy the crystal-clear sea. In summer, don’t forget to bring a beach towel, water shoes, and plenty of water.
Within the reserve, in addition to the coves, you will find caves, museums, and viewpoints that tell the story and biodiversity of this unique place.
Today, Zingaro is not only a paradise for hikers and sea lovers but also an important site for biodiversity conservation. Rare species of flora and fauna find refuge here, including the peregrine falcon and the dwarf palm, a symbol of the Mediterranean scrub.

History
The Zingaro Reserve was established in 1981 under Regional Law 98, becoming Sicily’s first nature reserve. Managed by the Azienda Regionale Foreste Demaniali, the reserve was officially regulated in 1988. Its creation preserved one of the last stretches of Sicilian coastline free from infrastructure, maintaining its wild beauty.

ITINERARY
From the North Entrance (56 m), begin your walk along the Sentiero Costiero, passing by the Museo della Cultura Contadina (Museum of Rural Culture) and the Grotta dell’Uzzo (Uzzo Cave) (74 m). After about 2 km, you will reach a fork: here, follow the sign for Borgo Cusenza and begin the ascent.
Once you reach the top of the trail, you will come across some farmhouses (260 m), where you will find a water source (note: not drinkable). At this point, turn left and take the Sentiero di Mezza Costa.
The highest point of the itinerary is near Pizzo del Corvo, at an altitude of 417 meters. From here, begin the descent to Cala Capreria (0 m). Once you reach the cove, resume the Sentiero Costiero and continue exploring the other coves until you return to the starting point.

EXCURSION DATE
March 3, 2025

STARTING POINT
North Entrance – San Vito Lo Capo

REFRESHMENT POINT
None

AUTHOR’S SUGGESTIONS
Remember to bring plenty of water, especially during the warmer months.

SAFETY TIPS
The feasibility of the proposed itinerary, like all mountain terrain, is subject to environmental changes due to natural events and weather conditions. Therefore, before setting out, consult the relevant tourist offices and/or reference mountain huts.
Our GPX tracks are only indicative, meaning the route was completed under the best trail and weather conditions of that day. Always assess the situation on-site.
Additionally, evaluate the route based on your physical abilities, training, and equipment.
It is advisable to inform someone of your planned itinerary.
Remember that the emergency number is 112.

EQUIPMENT
It is recommended to have equipment suitable for the route, weather conditions, and season: windproof and/or rainproof jacket, map and/or GPS device, sunglasses, sunscreen, hiking boots, first aid kit, appropriate clothing, gloves, backpack with food and plenty of drinks.

RECOMMENDED MAPS
A paper map will be provided at the park entrance.

INTERESTING LINKS
https://www.riservanaturalezingaro.com/

HOW TO ARRIVE
From San Vito Lo Capo, follow the SP 63 for about 12 km to reach the North Entrance of the Reserve.

PARKING AREA
North Entrance – San Vito Lo Capo, free of charge.
GPS Coordinates: 38.124914, 12.787987

Parcheggio entrata nord

Inizio del percorso

Grotta dell’Uzzo

Seguiamo il sentiero

Si sale verso il sentiero di Mezza Costa

Panorama dal sentiero di Mezza Costa

Punto più alto dell'escursione

Cala Capreria

Percorso della costa

Cala del Varo

Cala Berretta

Cala della Disa

Cala Marinella

Cala dell’Uzzo

Cala Tonnarella