Stagnone Lagoon and Islands Nature Reserve Voyage Tips and guide

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The Stagnone Lagoon and Islands Nature Reserve (Riserva naturale orientata "Isole dello Stagnone di Marsala") is a protected coastal wetland in western Sicily, known for its shallow lagoon, historic salt pans, archaeological islands, and role as a haven for migratory birds.

Established in 1984, the Stagnone Lagoon and Islands Nature Reserve is Sicily’s largest lagoon ecosystem. As a riserva orientata, it combines environmental protection with traditional human activities like salt harvesting, small-scale fishing, and low-impact tourism.

• Established: 1984
• Managed by: Sicilian Region – Department of Environment
• Features: Salt pans, archaeological sites, windmills, lagoon ecosystems, migratory birds

The reserve is home to salt-tolerant (halophytic) plant species adapted to high salinity, such as glasswort (Salicornia), sea purslane, sea lavender, and the sand lily. Of special interest are two local endemics: Calendula maritima, a rare coastal marigold found only in this part of western Sicily, and Anemone palmata, a buttercup species growing on sandy soils, found only in western Sicily and Sardinia.

Historically, Isola Grande (also known as Isola di Altavilla) was once a feudal holding of the Norman Altavilla family and later owned by the influential Adragna family during the salt boom, when Trapani was a leading centre of Mediterranean salt production.

The reserve stretches between Capo San Teodoro and Capo Boeo, just north of Marsala. It includes four islands and the historic salt pans of San Teodoro, Genna, and Ettore Infersa. At its heart lies the Stagnone (literally “still water”), a calm, shallow lagoon seldom deeper than 1–2 m, prized for its rich biodiversity and mirror-like beauty.

• 37.8740912.458711 Lagoon – The heart of the reserve, this shallow lagoon typically measures 1–2 m deep (often under 50 cm). Its still, warm, salty waters support rich birdlife and reflect the sky beautifully.
• 37.878212.441312 Isola Grande (Isola Lunga) – The largest island, formed by ancient sandbars. It acts as a natural barrier to the open sea and contains salt‐pan basins and sandy beaches.
• 37.8705212.468383 Isola di San Pantaleo (Mozia or Mothia) – Site of the Phoenician–Punic city of Mozia, with an archaeological museum, ruins, and mosaics, managed by the Whitaker Foundation.
• 37.8828912.45724 Isola Santa Maria – A private island with Belle Époque villa and a small 16th‑century chapel, fringed by sandy bathing beaches.
• 37.8627612.456285 Isola La Scuola – The smallest island (~80×50 m), named for a Roman-era rhetoric school (legend holds Cicero once taught here). Now derelict, it bears 1930s buildings and vegetation typical of Mediterranean islets.
• 37.8582412.474986 Punta di San Teodoro – Main departure pier for boats to Mozia. Ticket kiosks, wooden pier, and free parking nearby. Best option for visiting San Pantaleo.

The Stagnone Lagoon is a scenic day trip from Trapani, Marsala, or Erice, and can be visited independently by car or bicycle, or as part of a guided excursion.

From Marsala, head north via the SP21 coastal road (Strada Provinciale 21); from Trapani and Erice, follow the same road south. The reserve is a short distance south of the Vincenzo Florio Airport (Trapani–Birgi). Driving is the most flexible option, especially if combining with visits to wineries or salt pans in Trapani. There's a parking area close to the Ettore Infersa Saltworks.

Local buses run between Marsala and Trapani, with some stopping near San Leonardo or Spagnola, both within walking distance of the lagoon. However, service can be infrequent, especially on weekends, so check timetables in advance:

• Autoservizi Salemi – Trapani ↔ Marsala (some request stops near the lagoon)
• AST – Local bus company connecting nearby towns

Several local operators offer guided experiences around the lagoon, islands, and archaeological sites:

• Krivamar Elegant Tour – Shuttle coach tours from Trapani and Marsala including hotel pickup
• Viator Kayak Tour – Guided kayaking through the lagoon
• Mozia Direct Line – Simple boat shuttle: round-trip crossing to Mozia
• Sicily Bike Tour – Combines cycling among salt pans with Marsala winery visits
• Arini e Pugliese – Offer boat tours of the lagoon and Mozia island

Boat piers and saltwork viewing platforms are partially accessible. Some footpaths may be uneven, and boats to Mozia typically require a step up or down.

The reserve offers a rich mix of archaeological ruins, historic saltpans, and traditional windmills set against the lagoon's reflective waters.

• 37.8662612.467471 Mozia Archaeological Site and Whitaker Museum (Isola di San Pantaleo). The island of San Pantaleo, known as Mozia, was once a thriving Phoenician city. Today it’s an open-air archaeological park with ruins of temples, houses, walls, and the sacred Tophet. The on-site Whitaker Museum (Palazzina Whitaker) houses artefacts uncovered during excavations, including pottery, mosaics, inscriptions, and the famed Giovinetto di Mozia — a marble youth statue from the 5th century BC. Excavations by the University of Rome and Palermo continue to reveal new finds. 
• 37.8630612.483462 Ettore Infersa Saltworks (Saline Ettore e Infersa). Historic saltworks with large evaporation basins, restored windmills, and guided visitor access. Offers parking, sunset viewpoints over the lagoon. Entry point for walking paths across the salt pans, where panoramic viewpoints can be found for photography. 

The Stagnone Lagoon is one of Europe’s premier spots for kitesurfing thanks to its shallow, warm waters, steady winds, and wide open space. Ideal for both beginners and experienced riders, the lagoon’s sheltered environment offers safe, flat conditions perfect for learning new skills or perfecting tricks.

• 37.8518112.475311 Jamakite, ☏ +39 329 876 7111. Rental and lessons for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and canoeing. Situated along Contrada Spagnola and overlooking the lagoon. 
• 37.8896412.470322 Le Vie del Vento. Offer beginner and advanced courses in windsurfing, kitefoil, and wingfoil. Packages may include accommodation and boat trips to the Aegadian Islands. 
• 37.8915912.470993 Stagnone Kitesurf, ☏ +39 380 719 3438. Kitesurfing centre offering beginner and advanced lessons, gear rental, and SUP (stand-up paddle) hire. Located in Contrada Birgi Clemente. 
• 37.8848412.473354 Kite me up, ☏ +39 339 444 2845. Kitesurfing school offering lessons, equipment rental, and lagoon-front facilities. They also organise multi-day camps with accommodation included. 

While most of the reserve is dedicated to salt production and nature protection, several areas—particularly near San Teodoro and along the Isola Grande—offer shallow sandy beaches with calm, clear water. These spots are popular for a refreshing dip, especially at sunset, and are suitable for children due to the gradual depth.

• 37.9074412.458025 Spiaggia Torre di San Teodoro. Quiet, sandy beach located near the historic watchtower at the northern edge of the lagoon. Offers clear, shallow waters and panoramic views of the islands. Free parking nearby. 
• 37.8996812.446066 Spiaggia Tahiti (Isola Grande). Secluded beach on Isola Grande, known for its crystal-clear waters and fine sand. Access by boat or kayak. Popular for swimming and nature walks. 

While Trapani and Marsala offer ample shopping opportunities, the reserve area has a handful of places to pick up locally made items or gear. These include artisan boutiques and specialist shops catering to the kitesurfing community.

• 37.8624512.486421 Oro Bianco. Café-bar and boutique located near the salt museum. Offers local wines, artisanal products, and handmade crafts inspired by the lagoon and salt culture. 
• 37.8767612.496772 Sicily Kite Shop. Specialist shop selling kitesurfing equipment, clothing, and accessories. Located just inland from the lagoon, it caters to both beginners and experienced riders. 

There are plenty of dining options along the lagoon and in nearby Marsala, ranging from casual beach cafés to elegant restaurants with sunset views across the saltpans. Many specialise in fresh seafood, Sicilian tapas, and aperitivo-style dining.

• 37.8904112.470341 Seven Lounge & Bar Duotone (Duotone Bar). A relaxed but stylish lagoon-side bar offering cocktails, seafood plates, and vegetarian options. Known for its sunset vibe and outdoor deck seating, popular with the local kite crowd. 
• 37.8676512.486372 La Terrazza sulle Saline. Scenic terrace restaurant overlooking the Ettore Infersa saltpans. Specialises in local fish dishes, pasta with bottarga, and Sicilian wines. Best visited around golden hour for the views. 
• 37.8629312.485713 Mamma Caura. Historic saltworker’s tavern turned restaurant, right on the lagoon’s edge. Offers Sicilian seafood, grilled meats, and signature aperitivo platters. A popular spot for sunset drinks with panoramic views of the salt pans and windmills. 

There is a wide range of accommodation in nearby Marsala, Trapani, and the surrounding countryside — from boutique hotels to wine estate baglios offering agritourism experiences. Within the reserve area itself, you’ll also find beachside guesthouses, resorts, and kite lodges close to the lagoon.

• 37.8901712.471881 Resort Santa Maria, ☏ +39 0923 996045, [email protected]. A modern beachfront resort on the island of Santa Maria with stylish rooms, direct access to the lagoon, and facilities including a pool and on-site dining. 
• 37.848412.46572 Relais Lo Stagnone, ☏ +39 392 143 3080, [email protected]. Charming rural accommodation surrounded by vineyards and overlooking the lagoon. Offers bike rentals, kite storage, and sunset aperitifs on the terrace. 
• 37.8770412.489963 Kite Hostel Stagnone, ☏ +39 328 214 3805, [email protected]. A relaxed, kite-focused hostel popular with younger travellers. Dorms and private rooms, social areas, garden, and shuttle service to kite spots. 

• Trapani Wine Region – Wine tasting at the many wineries dotted around the province
• Salt Pans of Trapani and Paceco – Another important wetland and salt-harvesting area
• Zingaro Nature Reserve – A 7-kilometre stretch of unspoiled Tyrrhenian coastline on Sicily’s northwestern tip.