The Sicilian landscape is characterized by rocky mountains, bays,
beaches, cliffs, salt pans, woods and many hills with grain, olive trees and vineyards. Much of this natural beauty is being protected by the region of Sicily and currently the island contains 76 official nature reserves.

Lo Zingaro was the first area in Sicily that became a nature reserve. It is located near Castellammare del Golfo and Balestrate. In the area of more than 1,700 acres, 650 kinds of plants, flowers and trees are found, some of which are very rare or are only found on this lovely island; such as the Allium lehmani, the Iris pseudopumila and the Thymus spinulosus. The Golden Eagle, the Peregrine Falcon, and the Bonelli's Eagle are some of the 39 species of birds that inhabit the nature reserve.

We organize trekking with a guide, but there are several itineraries you can follow on your own. Besides enjoying the beautiful nature you'll have a lovely view over the gulf area and from the path close to the sea you can reach several pebble beaches.

Close to Palermo you'll find two nature reserves: Monte Pellegrino and Capo Gallo. Monte Pellegrino is especially known for the sanctuary of Saint Rosalia, Palermo's patron saint, but it is also a beautiful area with rocky mountains, a wide range of flora and fauna and several caves.

The 600 acre area of Capo Gallo, also located near the sea, has three main itineraries, one of which leads to the so called semaforo, a
military observation post at 527 meter. On clear days you can see Mount Etna from this spot.

It's not necessary to visit a nature reserve if you'd like to enjoy the
beautiful Sicilian nature. Also trips to Alcamo's hinterland, the area around Segesta, Salemi and Calatafimi and the lake Lago Poma can result in many beautiful and breathtaking photographs!