The Western Sicily seaside was the most amazing coastline I had experienced in my travels, and might still rank as the most amazing mix of colors I have ever seen in an Ocean, and I’ve traveled to Hawaii, the Caribbean and Greece (rivals for sure, but maybe not AS vibrant). Greece’s Santorini was a close second. When Crayola launched the box of 96 crayons, I always wore down the blues first. Cerulean. Aquamarine. Denim. Green Blue. All of these shades and shadows, and more, are here. If I had to answer the question “what is your favorite color?” My answer would be Mediterranean Sea.
The ocean is truly my happy place. The sound of the waves constantly crashing against the land, in a timeless story, reminds me of how small I am in the scheme of things. The quiet of Western Sicily’s coastline in December was surprising, and soothing, and just what my spirit needed. It cost 2 euros to enter Zingaro National Reserve (Riserva naturale dello Zingaro) in Western Sicily, and the return was priceless. I spent hours hiking the beautifully maintained trails, and I might have been the only person on earth. I spent Christmas day there, walking and listening, and taking photos, and exploring, and eating my packed lunch. I couldn’t recommend a place more highly for scenery, solitude, and serenity. The coastline was only part of it. There were paths into the hills, caves, and high desert. It was pretty fantastically diverse. Below are some of the hundreds of photos I took while hiking.
Towards the end of this post, you’ll also see some classic western Sicily coastline images – rocky cliffs, cities built into mountains with a view, and boats perched on the edge of the beach, just waiting to take to the water. You can also check out one of the most beautiful sunsets I’ve ever seen, from Marsala’s coastline. There were some reallllllly old boats and a lighthouse and so many points of interest that made the photos even more spectacular!
I also spent a few moments exploring the sleepy seaside town of Scopello , on Western Sicily’s seaside, also pictured below.
I really loved revisiting my photos from Western Sicily. I truly want to go back now! Right away!! To find out more about Western Sicily, head over to Lonely Planet and research their guide books! I still love buying or downloading guide books because I feel like they have sooooo many options in just one place!
Sunset from Marsala
La Tonnara di Scopello
Tonnara de Bonnagia near Trapani and Trapani
