With its white sandy beaches, nature reserves, wildlife and relaxed feel, this pretty town at the northern tip of Sicily is a great place to unwind.
The crowning jewel of San Vito Lo Capo is the pristine 2-mile (3-kilometre) beach that curves its way around the bay in front of the town. Away from the water, there is a historic church and beautiful countryside to explore.
Go to the beach and relax on the soft, fine sand. Get out on the water on a sailing boat, canoe or windsurfing board. They can be rented at the harbour at the end of the beach. Several diving schools operate from here and organize trips and lessons for novice and experienced divers.
Go for a stroll to the lighthouse at the tip of the gulf. The building is a symbol of the town and has changed little since its founding in 1854.
Stretch your legs still further by exploring the two nature reserves that border San Vito Lo Capo. Hike the network of paths through the Zingaro Nature Reserve along the eastern side of the Capo San Vito peninsula. Look out for such animals as eagles, owls, porcupines, vipers and horned snakes. At the Monte Cofano Reserve to the west of the town, find small secluded coves, caves that once sheltered prehistoric peoples and a 16th-century watchtower. There is also a long path for hiking and mountain biking.
When you come back to San Vito Lo Capo, walk through the narrow lanes of whitewashed houses to find St. Vito Sanctuary. The church's origins lie in the fourth century when it was a small chapel dedicated to St. Vitus who was a Sicilian born martyr. Subsequent reconstructions gave it a fortress-like appearance to protect it from pirate attacks.
End your day in San Vito Lo Capo enjoying the fantastic food on offer in various waterfront restaurants. Try local specialties such as fish couscous and Pani Cunzatu. This is fresh bread stuffed with cheese, tomatoes and anchovies.
Reach San Vito Lo Capo by driving along the scenic road that connects it to Palermo and Trapani. Alternatively, use the regular bus service from both these cities.
