Cala Berretta
A secluded pebble cove within the Riserva dello Zingaro, offering crystal-clear waters and breathtaking coastal views after a rewarding hike.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serenity
Cala Berretta
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serenity

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded pebble cove within the Riserva dello Zingaro, offering crystal-clear waters and breathtaking coastal views after a rewarding hike.
"Effort = Reward, swimming here after a hot walk in the sun is worth every drop of perspiration."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The path to Cala Berretta is rocky; trekking shoes are better than flip-flops .
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
No services available, so pack enough water and snacks for your visit .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal-Clear Waters
Cala Berretta
Dive into incredibly clear, turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. A true Sicilian gem.
Zingaro Reserve Trek
Riserva dello Zingaro
Hike through stunning coastal landscapes to reach this secluded cove. The journey is as rewarding as the destination.
Secluded Pebble Beach
Cala Berretta
Relax on a charming pebble beach, offering a peaceful escape from busier tourist spots.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Cala Berretta
Pack Smart for Your Cala Berretta Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The path to Cala Berretta is rocky; trekking shoes are better than flip-flops.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
No services available, so pack enough water and snacks for your visit.
🤿 Snorkel for Hidden Wonders
The clear waters are perfect for snorkeling; bring your gear for an amazing experience.
☀️ Seek Shade Early
The cliffs offer some shade, but it disappears as the day progresses. Arrive early for the best spots.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The path to Cala Berretta is rocky; trekking shoes are better than flip-flops.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
No services available, so pack enough water and snacks for your visit.
🤿 Snorkel for Hidden Wonders
The clear waters are perfect for snorkeling; bring your gear for an amazing experience.
☀️ Seek Shade Early
The cliffs offer some shade, but it disappears as the day progresses. Arrive early for the best spots.
🤫 Respect the Nature
This is a protected reserve; help keep it pristine for everyone to enjoy.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Cala Berretta's stunningly clear, turquoise waters and its tranquil, natural setting within the Riserva dello Zingaro. The hike to reach the cove is considered a rewarding effort, offering breathtaking coastal views. It's praised as an ideal spot for relaxation, swimming, and snorkeling.
"Beautiful, quiet beach with crystal-clear water and stunning natural surroundings. Perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature in the Zingaro Reserve."
Jakub Szymczak
"Amazing beach, we spent great time here. Remark: be careful on the left side of the beach there is a wasp nest in the ground (between the rocks). Besides that it’s very good to take swimming goggles and neoprene shoes to ensure great experience"
Marta Duszyńska
"Effort = Reward, swimming here after a hot walk in the sun is worth every drop of perspiration. Crystal clear water laps onto the small pebbley beach. You can escape the sun and cool off in the shade from the cliffs.
Tip - Is to wear walking shoes, not flip flops like I did. It's a bit of a goat track at times 🐐
"Mark Beauchamp
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cala Berretta is located within the Riserva dello Zingaro. You'll need to park at one of the reserve's entrances (north or south) and hike to the cove. The trek from the north entrance is approximately 1 hour and involves some uphill and downhill sections with loose rocks.
Wear comfortable walking shoes!Yes, there are parking areas available at the entrances of the Riserva dello Zingaro. Be aware that parking can fill up, especially during peak season. Consider arriving early to secure a spot.
Public transport options are limited directly to the reserve entrances. You can take a bus or transfer to San Vito Lo Capo and then arrange local transport or a taxi to the nearest Zingaro Reserve entrance.
Cala Berretta is often cited as being accessible from the northern entrance of the Riserva dello Zingaro, though it's a beautiful hike from either side. The walk is roughly an hour from the north entrance.
The hike is considered moderately challenging due to uneven terrain and loose rocks. It's described as a 'goat track' at times.
While rewarding, it requires a reasonable level of fitness and appropriate footwear.🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee for the Riserva dello Zingaro. This fee helps maintain the park and its trails. Check the official reserve website for current pricing and operating hours.
As part of a nature reserve, visitors are expected to respect the environment. Avoid leaving any trash, and do not disturb the flora or fauna. There are no specific restrictions on swimming or sunbathing, but be mindful of the natural surroundings.
The Riserva dello Zingaro is generally accessible year-round, but it's best to check local conditions and opening times, especially outside of the main tourist season. Weather can impact trail conditions.
The reserve typically opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon or early evening. It's advisable to confirm the exact hours before your visit, as they can vary seasonally.
While the reserve itself may have visitor limits during peak times, Cala Berretta, being a cove within the reserve, doesn't have a separate entry limit. However, its secluded nature means it naturally accommodates fewer people than larger beaches.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Cala Berretta is a natural cove with no facilities. You won't find restrooms, showers, or food vendors. It's essential to bring everything you need, including water, snacks, and sun protection.
The hike to Cala Berretta can be challenging for very young children due to the rocky terrain.
While the beach itself is beautiful, parents should consider their children's mobility and endurance before undertaking the trek.Absolutely! The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming. The pebble beach and calm sea make it an inviting spot to cool off after your hike.
Yes, the clear waters and natural environment make Cala Berretta an excellent spot for snorkeling. Bring your mask and snorkel to explore the underwater life.
Light, breathable clothing is recommended for the hike. Most importantly, wear sturdy walking or trekking shoes.
Don't forget swimwear, a hat, and sunglasses.📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The 'golden hour' before sunset can be particularly magical.
Expect stunning shots of the turquoise sea, the rugged coastline, and the natural beauty of the Zingaro Reserve. It's a perfect location for landscape and nature photography.
The entire trek offers scenic viewpoints. As you approach Cala Berretta, the cove itself provides a picturesque setting. The surrounding cliffs also offer elevated perspectives.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery. A polarizing filter can help enhance the colors of the water and sky. A sturdy tripod is useful for low-light conditions or long exposures.
Drone usage may be restricted within nature reserves to protect wildlife and maintain the natural environment. It's crucial to check the specific regulations for the Riserva dello Zingaro before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Riserva dello Zingaro
Visitors can choose to enter the reserve from either the north (near Scopello) or the south (near San Vito Lo Capo). The hike from the northern entrance to Cala Berretta is approximately one hour and involves ascents and descents over rocky terrain. Along the way, you'll encounter breathtaking views of the coastline and the shimmering Mediterranean Sea. The effort is consistently described as worthwhile, with the reward being the pristine beauty of the coves.
Remember that the Zingaro is a natural park, so leave no trace is the golden rule. Pack out everything you pack in, and be mindful of the delicate ecosystem. The reserve is a testament to conservation efforts, allowing visitors to experience Sicily's wild coastal beauty in its purest form.
The Allure of Cala Berretta's Waters
For those who love to explore beneath the surface, Cala Berretta offers a fantastic snorkeling experience. The clear visibility allows you to observe the marine life thriving in this protected area. Bringing snorkeling gear is highly recommended to fully appreciate the underwater world. The combination of the vibrant blue sea and the rugged coastal scenery makes for incredibly picturesque scenes, perfect for photography.
While the water is the main draw, the natural surroundings also play a significant role in Cala Berretta's appeal. The cove is framed by rocky cliffs that offer some natural shade, a welcome respite from the Sicilian sun. This secluded spot provides a sense of escape and tranquility, far from the hustle and bustle of more developed beaches.
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