Golden beaches, an old tuna fishery and flamingos in the lagoons
Between Noto and Marzamemi, the Riserva Naturale Orientata Oasi Faunistica di Vendicari protects eight kilometres of coast where Mediterranean scrub, dunes, salt marshes and some of the most beautiful beaches in Sicily meet. There are no roads or buildings, only sandy paths among junipers, mastic and dwarf palms.
The coastal lagoons are an important stop for migratory birds: herons, storks and, in autumn and winter, flamingos can be watched from wooden hides. Along the shore stand a Swabian tower and the ruins of an old tonnara, the tuna fishery, with its tall chimney. The beaches, such as Calamosche, a small bay protected by two headlands, Eloro and San Lorenzo, have golden sand and transparent water.
Tip: there are no facilities inside the reserve, so bring water and food; Calamosche requires a twenty-minute walk. Near the northern entrance are the ruins of the Greek city of Eloro.
Where it is
More things to see in Sicily
Where to stay near Noto
Tours and activities nearby
Offers from GetYourGuide. Some links are affiliate links: if you book we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.