Trekking Marettimo: Hidden Treasure among the Egadi Islands

Frequented by our organized trekking trips , both to San Giuseppe and in the summer with Velatrekking , it is certainly the island of my heart , for sea, trekking, silence, authenticity and also for Achille (do you know who he is?!)

In the heart of the Mediterranean, among the crystal clear waters of western Sicily, there is a hidden and uncontaminated jewel: Marettimo, the pearl of the Egadi Islands. This wild and fascinating island is an oasis of tranquility and natural beauty , full of breathtaking landscapes, archaeological treasures and vibrant marine wildlife. In this article, we will immerse ourselves in the unique atmosphere of Marettimo, exploring its hiking trails, its rich marine biodiversity and its vibrant local culture.

Marettimo: The Enchanted Island

Located off the western coast of Sicily, Marettimo is the most remote and wild of the three Egadi islands , together with Favignana and Levanzo. With its cliffs overlooking the sea, sea caves and secluded beaches, Marettimo enchants visitors with its natural beauty and authentic charm. The island is predominantly mountainous , with Pizzo Falcone dominating the landscape and offering spectacular views of the surrounding sea.

Trekking among the Marettimo paths

Marettimo is a paradise for hiking lovers , with a network of paths that crisscross the island and lead to places of extraordinary natural beauty. One of the most famous routes is the "Sentiero di Pizzo Falcone", which takes visitors to the top of the highest mountain on the island, offering breathtaking views of the crystal clear waters and surrounding islands. Other popular hiking trails include the “Punta Libeccio Lighthouse Trail” and the “Punta Troia Castle Trail,” which allow hikers to explore the rocky coasts and sea caves of Marettimo.

The Monk Seal: Icon of the Mediterranean

Marettimo is also known for being one of the natural sanctuaries of the monk seal, an endangered species that finds refuge in the crystal clear waters and coastal caves of the island. Thanks to conservation efforts such as the "Spot the Monk" project, it is certain that monk seals are slowly returning to these waters, demonstrating just how wild this island is.

The Feast of St. Joseph: Celebrating Local Tradition

In addition to its natural beauty and rich biodiversity, Marettimo is also known for its cultural and religious traditions, including the feast of St. Joseph, the island's patron saint . Every year, for 3 long days close to March 19th, the entire community gathers to celebrate this festival with processions, music, dances and traditional events. It is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and discover the traditions and customs of the island. We always organize trekking trips to San Giuseppe, not by chance!

Slow pace

We love it for this , we love that it is not crowded in August, we love its protected sea, we love seeing the people standing in the square to see who is getting off and on the hydrofoil, we love the Christmas parties at the oratory, we love seeing children run around happily without danger.

Marettimo is not just an island to explore, but a place to embrace a slow and authentic lifestyle, in harmony with the surrounding nature and local traditions . Here, time seems to slow down, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the relaxed and tranquil atmosphere of the island. This slow pace is an integral part of the Marettimo experience and helps make the visit even more memorable and rewarding. This silence offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with yourself and nature, leaving the stress and worries of life behind daily.

Marettimo is a place where simplicity and authenticity reign supreme. Here, local traditions are still alive and well rooted in the daily life of the island's inhabitants, who continue to practice ancient arts and crafts and celebrate holidays and anniversaries with joy and enthusiasm. Far from the frenzy of the modern world, Marettimo offers a refuge where you can bring your attention back to the simple and genuine things in life.

Exploring the crystalline waters of Marettimo

The waters around Marettimo are a paradise for sea lovers, with seabeds rich in marine life and a variety of spectacular dive sites to explore. From submerged caves to rock walls, there are endless opportunities to discover the beauty of the underwater world of Marettimo. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts will find a wide range of marine species, including colorful fish, coral and even monk seals that populate these waters (almost impossible, thankfully, to see)

With day trips you can go on excursions to the areas behind the town, or wander around the permitted areas by sailing boat.

Marettimo, a Paradise to Discover

In conclusion, Marettimo is an island that enchants and surprises with its natural beauty , its rich history and its vibrant local culture. From the hiking trails that crisscross the island to the crystal-clear waters that surround it, there is so much to explore and discover in this remote corner of the Mediterranean. Whether you are a hiking lover, a diving enthusiast or simply looking for peace and tranquility, Marettimo welcomes you with open arms for an unforgettable holiday full of nature and adventure.