Top 10 Natural Monuments around Erice

An important natural product is extracted from the sea's saltwater here. Only through the power of the elements, sun and wind, which evaporate the water in the saltworks' shallow basins, does pure salt remain. Even today, you won't find a kitchen without salt to season dishes. But in earlier times, it had an additional significance: It was important for preserving food—making it so precious that salt was called "white gold."

Scaletta Maruzza is certainly one of the most evocative passages of the entire Monte Cofano reserve.

The narrow path leads through the impressive cliffs and always opens up surprising views of the surrounding nature. Once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking sight: the Marble Madonna stands there in silent majesty, surrounded by the rocky slopes and the deep blue sky. The climb may be strenuous, but the peace and beauty of the park make up for every effort. Remember to bring enough water with you, as the route can be sweaty, especially in direct sunlight. Her calm and peaceful demeanor exudes a spiritual aura that fits perfectly with the picturesque and tranquil surroundings of the park. Especially in the clear mountain air and surrounded by the rugged, rocky landscape, the Marble Madonna almost seems like a guardian spirit over the region. The statue itself was probably made from local marble, which is common in Sicily due to the long tradition of marble sculpture. These Madonna statues are often signs of faith and serve as symbols of protection and hope for the communities in the area.

The path through the gorge of Monte Cofano is truly an impressive experience. You hike between towering rock walls that rise almost dramatically into the sky, and nature shows its wild side. Especially in the morning, when the sun brushes over the rocks, the landscape unfolds a special magic - the play of light gives the rocks an almost golden color. However, this path requires attention, as some hikers report: There are sections that are a bit more challenging, so sure-footedness is required. You should also remember to bring enough water, because there are no opportunities to refill along the way. Nevertheless, you will be rewarded for your efforts with a breathtaking view of the plateau of Monte Cofano. What makes this path special is the peace that surrounds you and the feeling of being in the middle of untouched nature. Here you can move far away from the hustle and bustle and enjoy the originality of the Sicilian landscape to the full.

A road bike tour through the salt pans of Trapani and Paceco offers a fascinating insight into the millennia-old tradition of salt production. The flat and well-paved roads lead directly through the quiet basin landscapes, past old windmills that are still used today to regulate water. The vast, open landscape and the shimmering salt create an impressive backdrop that makes every ride an unforgettable experience. In addition to the rich history, the region is also an important resting place for migratory birds such as flamingos, which can be observed during the ride. A special highlight on the route is the Calendula maritima, a rare plant that grows exclusively in this region and is a symbol of local nature conservation. A short stop at the salt museum in one of the windmills is worthwhile to learn more about the importance of salt and the people who have worked with it for thousands of years. This route offers a perfect mix of exercise, cultural experience and enjoyment of nature—ideal for road cyclists who are looking for something special off the beaten track.

The hike through the Monte Cofano nature reserve offers you a great mix of breathtaking nature, steep rock faces and beautiful views over the deep blue Mediterranean. The path winds along the coast and repeatedly reveals fascinating views of Monte Cofano, which towers majestically over the landscape. The lush green dwarf palms and the barren rocky landscape in particular characterize the picture - perfect for hikers who are looking for a bit of solitude in untouched nature. A special feature here is the dwarf iris, which shows its colorful blossoms as early as spring. Sturdy shoes are a must, as the path is partly rocky and uneven. In summer you should start the climb early to avoid the heat, as shade is in short supply on the path. The area is a real highlight for nature lovers.

Very nice hiking trail. In August it is advisable to leave early to avoid the high temperatures in the afternoon. Along the trail we found very few tourists but very knowledgeable people - from the forestry corps - who explained to us historical and naturalistic aspects of the area. Absolutely recommended

Unmissable show on the salt pans of Trapani and Paceco at sunset is a real spectacle.