Riserva naturale regionale delle Isole dello Stagnone di Marsala

Understand

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.

Islands and salt pans 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.

1 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. 2MISSING WIKILINK 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. 3MISSING WIKILINK Isola di San Pantaleo (Mozia or Mothia) – Site of the Phoenician–Punic city of Mozia, with an archaeological museum, ruins, and mosa

Getting there

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.

By car 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.

By bus 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

Tours

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

Accessibility 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.

See

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

1 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. 2 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.

Do

Kitesurfing 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.

1 Jamakite, ☏ +39 329 876 7111. Rental and lessons for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and canoeing. Situated along Contrada Spagnola and overlooking the lagoon. 2 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. 3 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. 4 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.

Beaches and swimming

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.

5 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. 6 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.

Buy

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.

1 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. 2 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.

Eat

There are plenty of dining options along the lagoon and in nearby Mars