The best traffic-free bike rides around Riserva naturale orientata dello Zingaro

San Vito Lo Capo is a highlight for every cyclist looking for a relaxing route along the coast. Not only does a fine sandy beach await you here, but also a great route accompanied by a light breeze and the sound of the turquoise water. During your ride, you can take breaks to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere or simply put your feet in the water. The panorama is open and wide - from the mountains in the background to the blue of the Mediterranean. A personal tip: it is most pleasant to ride here early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the sun is not quite so strong. The route is well suited for a longer tour or just to enjoy nature. And if you are looking for a little cooling off after your ride, there are some nice beach cafés in San Vito where you can get some refreshment.

If you're cycling and want to take a short break near Scopello, the viewpoint at the Faraglioni di Scopello is the perfect place. The striking cliffs rise impressively from the sea and are surrounded by lush vegetation. Even from up here, you have a fantastic view of the imposing rock needles that characterize the Mediterranean flair of the coast. If you want to park your bike for a moment, a short descent down to the water awaits you. There, crystal-clear water and a seabed that is perfect for snorkeling await you. Especially with a mask, you can fully enjoy the colorful underwater world – a short detour that is definitely worth it. The path there runs through the garden and costs admission, but offers stunning views of the sea. But be careful, especially in summer, temperatures can be high, so don't forget to bring plenty of water and take breaks in the shade every now and then.

Small but very intimate and welcoming

The pros also take beach shoes with them. The beaches are pebbly and prickly to a greater or lesser extent. Some actually walk the trail in sandals. I would absolutely not recommend that.

Fascinating bay with a small beach and bizarre rocks. Because of the historic tuna fishing facility (Tonnara), the beach and bay are also known as Tonnara di Scopello. Scopello is a small hamlet that lies at the southern entrance of the nearby Riserva naturale orientata dello Zingaro nature reserve to the north of the bay. The nature reserve extends from there over 1600 hectares on a 7 km long coastal strip to the north towards San Vito lo Capo.

This is where the northern entrance to the Zingaro Nature Reserve (Riserva naturale orientata dello Zingaro) is located. It stretches along one of the most scenic stretches of coastline between Castellammare del Golfo and San Vito lo Capo. "When the construction of a road along one of the most scenic coastal stretches from Castellammare del Golfo to San Vito lo Capo was planned at the end of the 1970s, there were considerable civil protests. The government then gave in and established the first nature reserve, Zingaro, on May 6, 1981 in Sicily. The reserve covers 1600 hectares and an approximately 7 km long coastal strip with small sandy bays and rough limestone cliffs. The highest elevation is Monte Speziale at 914 m. The karst area is crossed by rugged limestone cliffs and gullies washed out by water. The Mediterranean flora is characterized by olive and carob trees as well as dwarf palms (Chamaerops humilis) and provides a habitat for around 40 different bird species. Hawks, vultures and eagles find ideal living conditions here." https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Riserva_naturale_orientata_dello_Zingaro

The stacks stand out proudly and are covered in dense vegetation, characterizing the entire surrounding landscape. A swim with a mask is a must. The seabed rich in fish and the crystal clear water will give you magical moments.

Absolutely worth visiting is Castellammare del Golfo, for its gastronomic delicacies and the corners and alleys that cross it.