For those dreaming of a perfect seaside break in Italy, Sicily is one destination that offers an endless list of gorgeous coastal towns, resorts, and little coves and bays that can be enjoyed on all sorts of days at the beach. From days spent luxuriating at beach resorts with a well-made cocktail, to holidays where water sports are tried for the first time or skills are improved upon, to escaping to a little gem where you can enjoy the sound of the lapping waves and enjoy peace and quiet – there’s a perfect beach option for anyone who books a villa in Sicily.
Among all of the pretty seaside towns and areas on the island, however, we think that one of the most picturesque and charming of all has to be Scopello. Located on the north-west of the island, this little village is in the Province of Trapani, 10km from Castellammare del Golfo, and borders the Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro. Down in a little bay, framed by green hills and striking cliffs, looking out onto impressive rock stacks jutting out of impossibly blue waters, is a collection of charming stone buildings that constitute this photogenic village.
Although the actual population only numbers just over one hundred people, the village does become buzzy between April and October each year, increasing the inhabitants to around 2,000. The incredible good looks and charming surroundings of this coastal gem ensure that it has plenty to draw tourists and visitors.
Steeped in history and tradition, with its charming old 13th century tonnara (a tuna fishery turned boutique hotel) at its centre, Scopello is a place where life remains slow and, while tourists are drawn to the area, not overly commercialised or touristy. For those who book a vacation rental in Sicily and are looking to spend a day by the sea, get away from the hustle and bustle of modern life, and enjoy beautiful scenery and tranquil surroundings, it is a dreamy day-trip destination.
The best way to really explore the island and make the most of your time on holiday in Sicily is by renting a car as this is the easiest way to get around. In fact, visiting towns like Scopello can be pretty hard at all without a car as they can be complicated and time-consuming to reach via public transport alone. But, by being that little bit removed and harder to reach, it is a more peaceful spot, despite its incredible visual appeal and the increasing interest of visitors to the island.
With a small handful of restaurants, a gelateria, pastry shop, deli, coffee shops, hotels, and a few boutiques, the town itself does not have endless amenities and things to see and do but that’s kind of the point. This is the kind of place that one should go to with the intention of doing very little at all but enjoying the wonderful scenery and the relaxed pace of life. Wander about while taking it all in, laze by the beach, cool off in that perfectly blue water, dine on incredible seafood, drink delicious wine and perfect coffee while sitting out in a piazza, and generally enjoy yourself – that’s what a holiday is for!
So, if you are planning on booking a holiday rental in Sicily and you are thinking about getting out and exploring the island on day-trips, then we highly recommend spending a perfectly lovely and perfectly lazy day soaking up the beauty, charm, and atmosphere of the stunning little village of Scopello.
