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Trapani (province), Italy
Photo: Peppino091163, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
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.
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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.
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.
Rental and lessons for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and canoeing. Situated along Contrada Spagnola and overlooking the lagoon.
Offer beginner and advanced courses in windsurfing, kitefoil, and wingfoil. Packages may include accommodation and boat trips to the Aegadian Islands.
Kitesurfing centre offering beginner and advanced lessons, gear rental, and SUP (stand-up paddle) hire. Located in Contrada Birgi Clemente.
Kitesurfing school offering lessons, equipment rental, and lagoon-front facilities. They also organise multi-day camps with accommodation included.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Charming rural accommodation surrounded by vineyards and overlooking the lagoon. Offers bike rentals, kite storage, and sunset aperitifs on the terrace.
A relaxed, kite-focused hostel popular with younger travellers. Dorms and private rooms, social areas, garden, and shuttle service to kite spots.
Café-bar and boutique located near the salt museum. Offers local wines, artisanal products, and handmade crafts inspired by the lagoon and salt culture.
Specialist shop selling kitesurfing equipment, clothing, and accessories. Located just inland from the lagoon, it caters to both beginners and experienced riders.
By car
From Marsala, head north via the SP21 coastal road (Strada Provinciale 21); from Trapani and Erice, follow the same road south.
By bus
Local buses run between Marsala and Trapani, with some stopping near San Leonardo or Spagnola, both within walking distance of the lagoon.
Tours
Several local operators offer guided experiences around the lagoon, islands, and archaeological sites:
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.
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Trapani (TP) · Regional · TPS
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