Vendicari

The Vendicari nature reserve lies on the south-east coast of Sicily between Noto and Pachino in the province of Syracuse. It covers about 1,512 hectares, was established in 1984 and has been open to visitors since 1989. It is an important stopover for migratory birds, and five beaches line its coast.

What is there to see in the Vendicari nature reserve?

The area combines lagoons (pantani), salt pans, sand dunes, rocky shores, sandy beaches and Mediterranean scrub. Flamingos, gray herons, storks and spoonbills rest on the water. About 180 bird species visit each year, and observation huts allow close views. There are also buildings and remains from several periods:

• the old tuna-fishing station (tonnara)
• the “Torre Sveva”, a tower built in the 15th century
• remains of the Greek city of Eloro
• Byzantine necropolises and the Cittadella Maccari

Which beaches are there in Vendicari?

Five beaches lie within the reserve: Eloro, Marianelli, Calamosche, Vendicari and San Lorenzo. The sea off the rocky and sandy stretches suits snorkelling. There is no holiday resort. The reserve's own website stresses that this is a nature visit on foot. Three marked trails (blue, orange, green) run through the reserve.

What should you bring?

Bring swimwear, drinking water, a small snack, a camera, binoculars and sun protection. Dogs are not allowed in the reserve. The route and the four entrances are described under “Getting there”.

Which entrance suits which destination?

• Main entrance Vendicari on Strada Provinciale 19: Torre Sveva, the tonnara and Vendicari beach
• Eloro entrance: the Greek ruins of Eloro and the beaches of Eloro and Marianelli
• Calamosche entrance: Calamosche beach and Marianelli beach
• Cittadella entrance: Trigona Bizantina, Cittadella Maccari, Byzantine necropolises and San Lorenzo beach

The reserve belongs to the nature reserves of the Sicilian Region and is looked after by the regional department for rural and territorial development. It was established by decree of 14 March 1984. The birds recorded here include ospreys and white and black storks, as well as flamingos and herons.