Arizza Beach

Arizza Beach, located just a few kilometers from Scicli, is a secluded and rarely crowded bay that retains an authentic and wild charm. The gently curving shoreline is made up of golden sand mixed with fine gravel, with rocky sections ideal for snorkeling or for those seeking relaxation far from the crowds. The shallow and gently sloping seabed makes it suitable for families with children. Behind the beach, shifting sand dunes covered with Mediterranean scrub create a natural setting perfect for walks and peaceful moments. Although there are no permanent beach facilities, small mobile kiosks are present during the summer. Access is via a dirt parking area and a short walk downhill, which helps preserve its pristine character. Arizza is the perfect choice for those seeking relaxation, nature, and silence — far from the more crowded beaches of the Hyblean coast.

Santa Maria del Focallo

Santa Maria del Focallo is a renowned seaside resort located along the beautiful coast of the municipality of Ispica, in southeastern Sicily. Especially famous for its long beach of fine golden sand, the area is distinguished by its evocative coastal dunes and rich Mediterranean scrubland that surrounds it, creating a natural environment of great value and beauty. Its crystal-clear waters and consistently clean beaches have earned it the prestigious Blue Flag several times, a symbol of environmental quality and excellent tourist services. Today, Santa Maria del Focallo is a popular destination for tourists and families seeking a place to combine sea, relaxation, and nature, also thanks to a solid network of accommodation, well-equipped beach establishments, and green areas. The location offers a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for a regenerating summer holiday immersed in the Mediterranean landscape.

Marina di Marza

Marina di Marza is a peaceful and charming seaside locality in the territory of Ispica, nestled between Santa Maria del Focallo and the scenic area of Punta Ciriga. Characterized by wide golden beaches, shallow seabeds, and crystal-clear waters, it is an ideal destination for families, children, and those seeking relaxation in an unspoiled natural environment. The cliffs and coves along the coast preserve traces of ancient settlements and historical remains, adding cultural interest and charm to the landscape. Just a short distance away are important archaeological and natural sites, making Marina di Marza a perfect starting point for excursions exploring the Hyblean territory. Today, despite growing tourism and residential development, the locality retains an authentic lifestyle, marked by a slow pace and deep-rooted traditions. It is a corner of Sicily where nature, history, and tranquility harmoniously blend.

Punta Ciriga

Punta Ciriga is a picturesque coastal promontory located along the Ionian coast in the municipality of Ispica, in southeastern Sicily. Characterized by rock formations sculpted by wind and sea, sandy coves, and cliffs overlooking the water, the landscape takes on a wild and captivating appearance. The area is surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation and is home to remarkable marine biodiversity, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as snorkeling, scenic walks, and sport fishing. The clear waters, rich seabed, and breathtaking sunsets make Punta Ciriga a favorite spot for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts. Its proximity to important archaeological sites, such as Cava d’Ispica, and coastal nature reserves, enhances its historical and scenic interest. Punta Ciriga represents the perfect balance of natural beauty, silence, and discovery, offering an authentic and rejuvenating experience.

The Gorgo Salato, Bruno and Longarini Marshes

The Pantani Gorgo Salato, Bruno, and Longarini form an important system of coastal wetlands located along the southern stretch of the municipality of Ispica. They represent one of the most significant natural environments in southeastern Sicily. These brackish ponds, of natural origin, lie between sandy dunes and cultivated fields and provide valuable habitats for hundreds of migratory and resident bird species, including flamingos, herons, and black-winged stilts. The vegetation is typical of wetland areas, with reeds, rushes, and other halophytic plants. Once used for salt collection and agricultural activities, the pantani are now protected as Sites of Community Importance (SCIs) and are dedicated to sustainable uses. Popular with birdwatchers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts, they offer hiking trails and environmental education projects, actively contributing to the conservation of biodiversity and the promotion of the landscape and cultural heritage of the Ispica area.

Baia Porto Ulisse

Baia Porto Ulisse is a charming natural cove located along the southeastern coast of the municipality of Ispica, set in an unspoiled landscape where sea, rock, and Mediterranean vegetation blend harmoniously. Known for its clear waters and seabeds alternating between rocky areas and small sandy stretches, the bay is a valuable habitat for marine flora and fauna, making it ideal for snorkeling, sport fishing, and diving. Archaeological remains in the area confirm the ancient use of this stretch of coastline as a natural landing site. Baia Porto Ulisse is cherished by those seeking peace, relaxation, and a genuine connection with nature. Far from mass tourism, it offers spectacular scenery and seaside sunsets, providing a rejuvenating experience deeply tied to the history and identity of the Ispica region.

The Ibleo Garden

The Ibleo Garden, located in the heart of Ragusa Ibla, the city’s charming historic district, is Ragusa’s oldest and most charming public garden. Built in the first decades of the 19th century, this green space today represents an oasis of peace and tranquillity, ideal for relaxing walks among paths shaded by centuries-old trees, enchanting fountains and artistic statues that enrich the atmosphere. The garden has always been an important social and cultural meeting point for the local community, hosting numerous events, demonstrations and meetings that enliven city life. From here one can also admire breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the Iblei hills, offering a perfect combination of nature, history and community life. A place where past and present meet to offer unforgettable experiences.

The Macchia Forest of Irminio River Nature Reserve

The Macchia Forest of Irminio River Nature Reserve, established in 1985, covers about 410 hectares in the Ragusa territory, representing one of the most important natural environments in south-eastern Sicily. The reserve is characterised by dense Mediterranean scrub and downy oak forests, which offer shelter to various animal species, including birds of prey, reptiles and mammals. The Irminio River flows through this area, creating valuable wetlands that are fundamental to the local fauna and biodiversity. The site is accessible via equipped trails and viewpoints, ideal for hikers, naturalists and birdwatchers. The reserve is an important area dedicated to environmental conservation, sustainable tourism and ecological education, representing a true natural treasure in the heart of eastern Sicily, where nature and man coexist in harmony.

Marina di Ragusa

Marina di Ragusa is a lively seaside resort located along the coast of the municipality of Ragusa, famous for its wide sandy beaches and marina that attracts visitors from all over Sicily and beyond. A popular destination for tourists and residents alike, Marina di Ragusa offers a modern and well-equipped seafront promenade, full of services, typical restaurants, bars and quality accommodation facilities, perfect for summer stays. The locality has experienced significant development since the 1970s, becoming an important tourist centre, but also a cultural one, thanks to the events and manifestations that enliven the summer season. In addition to the natural beauty of the crystal-clear sea and beaches, the area retains traces of ancient settlements and preserves maritime traditions that tell the story and identity of the local community, making Marina di Ragusa a destination that combines fun, relaxation and culture.

Park of San Giuseppe ‘U Timpuni

The Park of San Giuseppe ‘U Timpuni represents the true “green lung” in the heart of Modica’s historic centre, an oasis of peace and beauty set amidst the evocative alleyways of Ragusa’s Baroque. Located in a formerly abandoned area, it is now a virtuous example of urban and environmental regeneration. It houses an amphitheatre that hosts cultural events and jazz concerts, a well-equipped dog area and a Mediterranean scrub grove, the core of the CO₂Zero project promoted by ChocoModica, thanks to which 80 native trees were planted in 2019 to help reduce emissions. In March 2024, the park was further enriched with the inauguration of the Garden of the Righteous, where two trees were dedicated to Nicholas Winton and Felicia Impastato, witnesses of courage and memory. Walking along its paths and sitting on the benches is an immersive experience of nature, civic engagement and shared culture.