The jagged spine of the San Vito Cape catches the eye from a great distance. Jutting off the coast of northwest Sicily, the rugged promontory entices travelers to follow its length. Those who do will uncover a magnificent seacoast, with natural caves, hidden beaches and a wonderful diversity of plant life (both terrestrial and marine). In fact one of Europe's most revered nature reserves protects a portion of this coastline and interior from San Vito Lo Capo to Scopello: the Riserva dello Zingaro. With great pleasure naturalists, hikers, strollers, horseback riders and lovers lose themselves in this luxuriant paradise. The reserve has done an exemplary job in preserving not only the Zingaro's stunning natural beauty but also its historical legacy: abandoned village dwellings, ancient olive presses and skeletal remains of Neolithic man are among the park's most important treasures.

The curious history of the Zingaro is described below, as are several recommended walking itineraries within the reserve. While the height of spring (April-May) is a particularly special time of year to visit, the Zingaro always seems to have something in bloom. Early spring (February-March) is another nice period. The further away from the summer one arrives, the more likely one is to find the region in its natural state: an Arcadia as yet undiscovered by the human race.