Favignana is the main island of the Egadi archipelago. It seems a butterfly resting on the deep waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Its coasts are characterised by rocky inlets and golden sandy bays; the island is dotted with quarries of a typical tuff (with a clearer colour and shimmering malacological sediments), widely used and of great value. Its ancient name, “Aegusa”, betrays the presence of herds of goats that, in the past, grazed over these lands covered in Mediterranean maquis and today rich in low shrubs and bushes.
Favignana was already inhabited in Neolithic times and traces of this past are still be seen in the “Faraglione” and “Pozzo” caves. Then the Phoenicians and the Romans, who in these waters fought a decisive and bloody battle against the Carthaginians during the first Punic War in 241 a.C.. For this reason, the bay of “cala Rossa” takes its name from that bloody battle and still today many relics are preserved in these depths.
The Florio family had certainly the merit of developing economically this island, by bringing the traditional tuna fishing and processing at levels of excellence. The whole landscape offers different and suggestive views.
Levanzo is the smallest and closest islands of the Egadi archipelago. In order to fully enjoy its charming atmosphere, it is reachable by the more daring tourists by swimming, windsurfing or by dinghy. This island, with a tiny fishing village located at the foot of a green hill, is bathed by the clearest waters of the Mediterranean Sea. It is eminently walkable and offers a quiet and relaxing countryside where you can enjoy beautiful views. Small coves and inlets welcome visitors who are looking for holidays far away from worldliness and surrounded by an unspoilt nature. Passing through a pine forest, letting yourselves be inebriated by the perfumes of the Mediterranean maquis, you’ll reach the small coves of the island where you’ll be fascinated by wonderful seabeds with a rich underwater life. And after a day of sun and sea, you cannot miss a “granita” or a drink whilst admiring stunning sunsets and being lulled by the gentle rocking of the boats anchored in the small tourist port.
Marettimo is a dolomite emerging from the depths of the Mediterranean sea; it’s the roughest and wildest island of the Egadi archipelago. Its dynamic village is characterised by narrow streets and its life revolves around two little ports: the tourist port (more recently built) and the old port (mostly used by local fishermen). Along the coast pebble bays alternate with charming rocky inlets, so that you can enjoy unique holidays surrounded by crystalline waters. The highest point of the island, Pizzo Falcone, seems to watch the Marine Reserve and it is frequented by numerous trekkers and nature lovers who have the chance to observe mouflons, birds and many species of Mediterranean shrubs. Coves, inlets and grottoes enchant all visitors. The locals welcome every guest with the typical Sicilian warmth. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste the “queen” of the local culinary specialities: the “lobster soup” served in large earthenware saucepans. You’ll never forget this explosion of scents and flavours!
Favignana, Levanzo and Marettimo: sea and land
By contacting one of the many sailing centers on the island you can...
These typical gardens have been obtained by transforming the old tuff quarries
