Castellammare del Golfo Location guide

Follow the road along the Tonnara di Scopello, go past the row of old fishermen’s cottages and head towards the Zingaro Nature Reserve, a descent that offers you a breathtaking view of Castellammare as you approach. During the journey, you will no doubt stop to take numerous photos of the town as it comes into focus, framed by the blues of the sky and the sea, the curve of the coast and the rocks of the Tonnara di Scopello.

Lose yourself in the ancient winding streets, taste the local hot bread, or try an aperitivo in one of the many local bars that are scented with the sea air. All of these things are obligatory during a stay in Castellammare, plus of course, the chance to try the fresh local tuna or watch the sunset over the gulf.

Main attractions
Visit the Arabian Norman Castle
Check out the Madonna del Rosario Church
See the Greek Temples near Segesta
View the old fishing cottages along Tonnara di Scopello
Taste ricotta desserts
See the Nature Reserve at Zingaro
Swim in the Gulf of Guidaloca
Eat a lunch of ‘pane cunzatu’
Admire the view from the Madonna delle Scale Church
Visit the Caves at S. Margherita with their frescoes

Events
July/August
On the 13th July 1718, the English navy attacked the Port of Castellammare. In spite of their overwhelming power and size, the attack failed. Local legend claims that this was because the town was protected by the Madona of Soccorso, who appeared to protect the town and ward off the invaders. Celebrations to honour the Madonna are held every July and include a spectacular light and music show held over the gulf. But fear not if you miss the July festival, as during August other celebrations are held to pay homage to the town’s protector.
September
If the ancient walls and steps of the town could speak, they would be able to tell you many stories about local history. ‘Per le antiche scale’ (for the ancient steps) is an event that celebrates the Arabian history of the town, a time when the historic centre is filled with art and craft stalls celebrating eastern culture.

Local Food and Drink
‘Busiate’ with Trapanese Pesto
A local dish from the province of Trapani, its origins go back to the time of Genovese sailors who travelled from the Orient, breaking their journey at the Trapanese port. The pesto was adapted by local sailors with the inclusion of almonds and fresh tomatoes, and then served with homemade pasta. Poetry on a plate.
Alcamo DOC
Made from Cataratto Grapes, this yellow coloured wine is an ideal accompaniement with a starter of figs and proscuitto, or with fish and white meat dishes.

Spotlight on The Tonnara di Scopello
The towers are perhaps what catch the eye first when you reach the area surrounding the Tonnara di Scopello. This area of ancient buildings along the sea front is enclosed by an old wall, surrounded by a unique cove protected from the elements by a series of large rocks that burst out of the sea. It is an area of such stunning natural beauty that it is often used by film-makers, and was featured in some scenes from the film Ocean’s Thirteen.
Those who enjoy diving can follow an underwater archeological trail, or you can simply walk around the area and admire the old fishermen’s cottages, and the extraordinary natural landscape.

How to get there
In the north west of Sicily, in the gulf of the same name, Castellammare is easily reached by car, and is also close to the cities of Trapani and Palermo.
By air: The nearest airport is Palermo which has good connections with Italian and other major European cities, and is served by budget airlines including Easyjet, Ryanair, and TUI fly. From here is it a journey of around 40 minutes to Castellammare.
By car:
A29 from Palermo (1hr). On exiting, follow the SS187 to reach the city, which is well signposted.
SS113 – A29 from Trapani (45mins). Exit as above.
By boat: The Gulf of Castellammare is easily reached from the Trapani and Palermo Ports, both of which operate ferry crossings from other key ports including Naples, Cagliari, Genova, Livorno and Tunisia.
Other: If you wish to travel by train, the nearest station is Trapani. From here, you will need to take a local bus. There are also daily bus services from Palermo.