Marettimo
Of the three Aegadian Islands, the island of Marettimo is the quietest and most remote with a distance of around 46 kilometres from Trapani on the Sicilian mainland. Unlike its near neighbours Favignana and to a lesser extent, Levanzo, Marettimo remains largely untouched by tourism although that's not to say there's nothing here for those that do choose to make the journey.
The arrival port is pretty and welcoming; low-rise, whitewashed buildings hugging a traditional fishing port with the traditional fishing vessels providing a splash of colour. The port is well-served by restaurants, shops and bars although neither of which would encourage you to spend long periods of time there.
Marettimo's main attraction is its rugged natural beauty which you can enjoy by exploring its many, well-marked pathways. If you want to stay close to the port area there's a beach to enjoy but I'd recommend making a day of it and committing to a hike if you have time. Aside from the shops and bars at the port, there are few other outlets so it's advisable to stock up on food and water before setting out. Much of the walking is up steep hills but you will be rewarded by stunning vistas and a feeling that you almost have the island to yourself, so few are the encounters with fellow visitors.
You can reach Marettimo directly from either Trapani or Marsala. From Trapani, the hydrofoil takes an hour and 20 minutes but there are also ferries that take slightly longer. If you only have one day it's just about possible to visit all three of the islands on the same day but it really isn't wise as you don't then have enough time to see the best of any of them. If you do have at least one whole day available then I'd recommend a day of brisk exercise and the experience of laid-back, island culture here.
The arrival port is pretty and welcoming; low-rise, whitewashed buildings hugging a traditional fishing port with the traditional fishing vessels providing a splash of colour. The port is well-served by restaurants, shops and bars although neither of which would encourage you to spend long periods of time there.
Marettimo's main attraction is its rugged natural beauty which you can enjoy by exploring its many, well-marked pathways. If you want to stay close to the port area there's a beach to enjoy but I'd recommend making a day of it and committing to a hike if you have time. Aside from the shops and bars at the port, there are few other outlets so it's advisable to stock up on food and water before setting out. Much of the walking is up steep hills but you will be rewarded by stunning vistas and a feeling that you almost have the island to yourself, so few are the encounters with fellow visitors.
You can reach Marettimo directly from either Trapani or Marsala. From Trapani, the hydrofoil takes an hour and 20 minutes but there are also ferries that take slightly longer. If you only have one day it's just about possible to visit all three of the islands on the same day but it really isn't wise as you don't then have enough time to see the best of any of them. If you do have at least one whole day available then I'd recommend a day of brisk exercise and the experience of laid-back, island culture here.
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Category: Aegadian Islands (Isole Egadi)
Administrative area: Trapani Province Population: Around 650 Size: 12 km² Highlights: Hiking routes, tranquility Island hotels: 0 |
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Arrival port: Marettimo
Journey time from Sicilian mainland: 1 hr 20 minutes Distance from nearest Sicilian mainland port: 46 km |
Arrive by: Ferry, hydrofoil
Arrive from: Trapani, Marsala, Favignana, Levanzo Best airport: Trapani Airport |
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