Zingaro. The Nature Reserve of the Zingaro, the first instituted in Sicily by regional law no. 98 of May 1981, thanks to the efforts of an environmental movement, is one of the most picturesque and untouched places on the island.

"The area of the Zingaro Reserve extends for about 1,700 hectares. … and takes up a large part of the peninsula of Capo San Vito on the western side of the gulf of Castellammare. Its coastline covers about eight kilometres of coast with sections of sheer cliffs and accessible inlets that are very beautiful. It's the regular destination of swimming fans, attracted by the clear waters and the peace of the place. Internally, without moving far from the coast, the landscape becomes mountainous, culminating, from south to north, in the peaks Mt. Scardina, Mt. Speziale, Mt. Passo del Lupo and Mt. Acci with its dolomite crest. The landscape is well formed, lightly marked by a few erosive channels, sometimes deep, carrying to the sea the rainwater, which due to the calcareous nature of the land, does not penetrate into the subsoil" (1).
The most popular photos of the Zingaro Reserve are generally those of the stunning inlets and of the cave of Uzzo.

The Zingaro is also interesting for its vegetation, the flora and fauna of the Mediterranean maquis. Many rare and native plants live in the reserve (Fleur-de-lis of Sicily, Limonio di Todaro, Dwarf palm, Branciforti orchids, Spinosetto thyme, Florentine iris, delphinium, sengreen).

From the fauna perspective, it should be remembered that at least 39 bird species nest here, mainly birds of prey, including the peregrine falcon, Bonelli's eagle, kestrel, barn owl and buzzard.


Within the Zingaro, there is also the Uzzo cave, a true natural monument, which still bears traces of the first prehistoric settlements in Sicily. The Reserve can only be visited by foot. It is thoroughly organised with paths, route signs and equipped areas.




(1) CARMELO FEDERICO, Illustrated Guide to the Flora of the Zingaro, L'EPOS, 1999