The best traffic-free bike rides around San Vito Lo Capo

Beautiful spot with plenty of benches. Wonderful view of the bay.

Bar and ice cream shop with artisanal production of ice creams, granitas and more. Great for a relaxing coffee break in the splendid setting of San Vito. https://www.facebook.com/BrividoGolosoSanVito/?locale=it_IT

Located in the middle of the city, this impressive church tells of a long history that goes back to the early Christian period. What immediately catches your eye is the fortress-like appearance, which dates back to the conversion into a fortified church in the 15th century. You could almost believe you were standing in front of a castle, which gives the cityscape a very unique character. When you enter the sanctuary, you are immersed in a mixture of history and art. Sculptures by Giacomo Gagini and Orazio Ferraro provide a deep insight into the artistic past of the region, while contemporary works complete the picture. A small museum inside the church tells the story of the pilgrimages and displays religious works of art and devotional objects that represent the veneration of St. Vitus. Especially after a walk through the charming streets of the city or after exploring Monte Monaco, it is a good idea to take a break here to absorb the atmosphere. It is particularly interesting when the masses take place in the garden of the sanctuary in summer. This place brings with it a tranquility that contrasts with the busy coast - an ideal place for city lovers who want to discover a piece of authentic Sicily away from the hustle and bustle.

San Vito Lo Capo is a highlight for every cyclist looking for a relaxing route along the coast. Not only does a fine sandy beach await you here, but also a great route accompanied by a light breeze and the sound of the turquoise water. During your ride, you can take breaks to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere or simply put your feet in the water. The panorama is open and wide - from the mountains in the background to the blue of the Mediterranean. A personal tip: it is most pleasant to ride here early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the sun is not quite so strong. The route is well suited for a longer tour or just to enjoy nature. And if you are looking for a little cooling off after your ride, there are some nice beach cafés in San Vito where you can get some refreshment.

The pros also take beach shoes with them. The beaches are pebbly and prickly to a greater or lesser extent. Some actually walk the trail in sandals. I would absolutely not recommend that.

The Tonnara di Cofano Tower is one of the most beautiful attractions of the reserve of the same name. This is due to its position, in front of a splendid sea with bright colors that invite you to dive into the crystal-clear waters. For the locals, the area is simply called “Torre Tono”. The Tonnara del Cofano was one of the most important and richest in fish in the Trapani area and remained active until the last years of the 19th century. Owned by the Bosco family since 1404, its moment of greatest splendor was reached around the middle of the 16th century, when Cosimo del Bosco stipulated in 1551, with the University of Monte San Giuliano, a concession contract to build a tower and the malfaragio (complex of buildings) for the tonnara.

The Sanctuary of San Vito overlooks the square of the same name in the historic center, the undisputed symbol of San Vito Lo Capo, and is certainly the most interesting monument in the town. Legend has it that around the first chapel dedicated to the holy martyr, in the following centuries, the church-fortress was built to protect it from attacks by Barbary pirates and to safely host all those faithful who came from far away. The small village of San Vito slowly grew around the fortress and many inhabitants began to host travelers for a fee.

This is where the northern entrance to the Zingaro Nature Reserve (Riserva naturale orientata dello Zingaro) is located. It stretches along one of the most scenic stretches of coastline between Castellammare del Golfo and San Vito lo Capo. "When the construction of a road along one of the most scenic coastal stretches from Castellammare del Golfo to San Vito lo Capo was planned at the end of the 1970s, there were considerable civil protests. The government then gave in and established the first nature reserve, Zingaro, on May 6, 1981 in Sicily. The reserve covers 1600 hectares and an approximately 7 km long coastal strip with small sandy bays and rough limestone cliffs. The highest elevation is Monte Speziale at 914 m. The karst area is crossed by rugged limestone cliffs and gullies washed out by water. The Mediterranean flora is characterized by olive and carob trees as well as dwarf palms (Chamaerops humilis) and provides a habitat for around 40 different bird species. Hawks, vultures and eagles find ideal living conditions here." https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Riserva_naturale_orientata_dello_Zingaro