Marettimo: An Island Rich in History and Nature
Located twenty nautical miles from Trapani, fourteen from Favignana and seventy from Cape Bon in Tunisia, Marettimo emerges from the sea with an area of only 12.3 square kilometres and 19 kilometres of coastline. Its terrain is predominantly rocky, with jagged coastlines alternating between imposing cliffs and small, hidden bays, bathed by surprisingly blue and turquoise waters. The island culminates with the peak of Monte Falcone, which rises majestically 686 metres above sea level, offering views of rare beauty.
A peculiarity of Marettimo is the abundance of freshwater springs, a precious resource that in the past represented a fundamental reference point for sailors. The island’s air is pervaded by the intoxicating scent of wild thyme, rue and heather, essences that contribute to creating a magical, almost sacred atmosphere. Its geographical position, more isolated than the other islands in the archipelago, has helped to preserve a unique ecosystem and remarkable biodiversity.
The first traces of civilisation on Marettimo date back as far as 5000 B.C., as evidenced by the numerous finds of artefacts such as arrowheads and obsidian flakes. The island officially entered history in March 241 B.C., when the decisive Battle of the Egadi took place in its crystal-clear waters, which sealed Rome’s victory in the First Punic War. Following this event, Marettimo became an important Roman military stronghold, as attested by the remains of the archaeological complex of the ‘Roman Houses’.
After the Roman domination, the island was subjected to invasions by the Vandals, the Byzantines and the Saracens, to whom we probably owe the construction of the watchtower on the point that today houses the Castle of Punta Troia. Later, Marettimo came under the control of the Normans, the Swabians, the Angevins and the Spanish, each of whom left traces of their passage. At the end of the 18th century, the Bourbons attempted to reform the state and re-evaluate the territory, but it was the Florio family, in the following century, who gave a strong economic and cultural impulse to the Egadi Islands, with the construction of tuna fisheries and the promotion of agriculture.
Since the 1990s, Marettimo has been included in the Protected Marine Area of the Egadi Islands, the largest marine reserve in the Mediterranean, testifying to the importance of its environmental protection. The Museum of the Sea, Maritime Activities and Traditions and Emigration, located in the heart of the village, preserves the historical memory of this community, recounting the ancient activities linked to the sea and the stories of emigration that have marked the island.
The small village of Marettimo welcomes visitors with its small harbour with turquoise waters and white houses overlooking the sea. Hospitality is a deep-rooted value here, often offered directly in the homes of the inhabitants, in a familiar and authentic atmosphere. The local community has been able to preserve ancient traditions, creating a welcoming and charming environment. Among the most heartfelt celebrations is the Feast of St Joseph, the island’s patron saint, which every year, around 19 March, involves the entire community in processions, music, dancing and traditional events, offering a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in local culture and customs.
One aspect that contributes to Marettimo’s tranquillity is the ban on motor vehicles, except for authorised ones, inviting people to explore the island on foot or by sea. The resident population is limited, especially during the winter months, which helps to maintain an intimate and cosy atmosphere. The very name of the island, Marettimo, seems to derive from the union of the words ‘mar’ and ‘thyme’, underlining the deep connection with the sea and the fragrant plant that grows wild throughout the territory.
Marettimo’s Unmissable Attractions
One of Marettimo’s most fascinating natural spectacles is its 400 or so sea caves, each one different in shape, colour, size and characteristics. A real hidden treasure, accessible for the most part only by sea, which offers unforgettable emotions.
Among the most famous are the Grotta del Cammello, which has a small pebble beach, the Grotta del Presepe, with its suggestive stalactites and stalagmites, and the Grotta della Bombarda, so called because of the characteristic hissing sound produced inside it during sea storms.
Other caves of outstanding beauty are the Grotta del Tuono, the Grotta della Pipa, the Grotta Perciata, the Grotta della Ficaredda, the Grotta degli Innamorati and the Grotta della Palma. Numerous boat excursions are organised by locals to explore these natural wonders, often with stops for a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters.
For hiking enthusiasts, Marettimo is a true paradise. The island offers a dense network of paths, well signposted by the forestry service, that allow you to discover the unspoilt nature of the area. There are at least six main routes that, starting from the harbour, lead to the most remote parts of the island, with different levels of difficulty. Among the most popular routes is the one leading to Punta Troia, which can be reached in about an hour and a half, where the castle of the same name stands.
Another very suggestive itinerary is the one leading to Pizzo Falcone, the highest peak on the island, from where there is a spectacular view of the entire archipelago and the Sicilian coast. Other paths lead to Cala Bianca, Punta Basano, the Punta Libeccio lighthouse and Monte Lissandro, offering breathtaking views and the chance to immerse oneself in the local flora and fauna, with the possibility of even spotting mouflon, fallow deer and wild rabbits. A free map of the trails is available to explore the island on your own.
Dominating the promontory of the same name, visible from the harbour, Punta Troia Castle is an important historical testimony and an exceptionally beautiful vantage point. Originally a 9th century Saracen defence tower, it was later enlarged and transformed into a fortress by the Spanish in the 16th century. Over the centuries, the castle was also used as a prison, especially during the Bourbon period.
Recently restored and opened to the public, it now houses the Museo delle Carceri and the Foca Monaca Observatory of the Protected Marine Area of the Egadi Islands. The castle can be reached in about an hour and a half on foot via a path that in some places overhangs the sea, or by boat. From its privileged position, 116 metres above sea level, one can admire a panorama that sweeps over the entire east coast of the island and nearby Favignana and Levanzo.
Located on the western end of the island, the Punta Libeccio lighthouse stands like a lone guardian over the coastline. This imposing stone structure is one of Italy’s most important lighthouses and offers a breathtaking view of Marettimo’s western coastline. The lighthouse can be reached from the village via an easy and well-marked path that passes through the cemetery and the Carcaredda forest refuge. The walk, which lasts about two hours, allows one to immerse oneself in the Mediterranean maquis and to enjoy suggestive views, culminating in the spectacular view from the promontory on which the lighthouse stands.
Above the village, about half an hour’s walk away, is the archaeological site of the Case Romane, evidence of Marettimo’s strategic importance in Roman times. These are the remains of a building dating back to the late Republican period, probably used as an observation point on the maritime traffic passing between Italy and North Africa and between Italy and Spain. Next to the Roman ruins stands a small Byzantine chapel from the 11th century, built by Basilian monks, testifying to the different dominations that have affected the island. The elevated position of the site also offers a wide panoramic view of the coast below and the village.
In the heart of the village of Marettimo is the Museum of the Sea, Maritime Activities and Traditions and Emigration, run by a local association. This small but precious museum collects fishing tools, old photographs of emigrants with their cardboard suitcases, and other objects that tell the story and traditions of the island community, deeply linked to the sea and marked by the phenomenon of emigration. A visit to the museum offers the opportunity to get to know Marettimo’s culture and identity at first hand, preserving the memory of a people who had to leave their land in search of work in different parts of the world and who today are committed to protecting their uniqueness.
Live Marettimo: Unique Activities and Experiences
A must-do experience for anyone visiting Marettimo is a boat trip along the coast. Several local operators offer guided tours that allow visitors to admire the spectacular sea caves, hidden coves and impressive cliffs that characterise the coastline. You can choose between half-day and full-day excursions, some of which also include lunch on board and snorkelling stops. For those who want more autonomy, a driverless boat rental service is also available. The ‘island tour’ by boat is a highly recommended activity to fully appreciate the beauty and variety of Marettimo’s coastal landscape.
The crystal-clear waters surrounding Marettimo are a true paradise for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts. The rich marine biodiversity and the presence of numerous underwater caves, cliffs and even a wreck (the Klizia) offer a wide range of dive sites suitable for all levels of experience. Several diving centres on the island organise diving courses for beginners and experienced divers, as well as guided dives to discover the most impressive underwater areas. With a bit of luck, during a dive or boat trip, it is also possible to spot the rare monk seal, which has found refuge in the island’s caves.
Although Marettimo is not primarily renowned for its sandy beaches, the island still offers several coves and corners of the coast where one can enjoy the sea and sun in a very peaceful atmosphere.
Among the best-known beaches are Cala Bianca, with its white pebbles and turquoise waters, Praia Nacchi, which is quieter and more secluded, Cretazzo beach, Cala Nera, located below the lighthouse at Punta Libeccio, Scalo Vecchio beach, near the harbour, the pebble beach of Rotolo, which is easily accessible, and Cala Manione, a wild cove with deep blue waters. The distinctive element of Marettimo remains its peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, a true refuge for those who wish to get away from the chaos of everyday life and immerse themselves in the beauty of unspoilt nature.
Useful Information for Your Trip to Marettimo
Marettimo can only be reached by sea from the Sicilian ports of Trapani and Marsala. From Trapani, connections are available both by ferry (with a duration of about 1-3 hours) and hydrofoil (faster, taking about 1 hour), operating all year round with several daily runs. From Marsala, on the other hand, connections are seasonal and are made by hydrofoil, with a duration of about 1-1.5 hours. Direct hydrofoil connections are also available from the nearby islands of Favignana (about 30 minutes – 1 hour) and Levanzo (about 25 minutes – 2 hours).
For those arriving by plane, the nearest airports are Trapani Birgi and Palermo Falcone-Borsellino. From Palermo, a further transfer of about an hour by car to the port of Trapani is necessary.
There are no hotels in Marettimo in the traditional sense of the term, but the accommodation offer consists mainly of cosy rooms in private houses, bed and breakfasts, flats and residences. Among the most popular facilities are Il Rifugio (with a score of 9.6), Cala del Porto Residence (8.6), The Twins rooms (8.3), Marettimo Residence (8.6) and B&B La Terrazza (9.3). It is advisable to book accommodation well in advance, especially during the summer months, to ensure availability and find the best deals. Average prices for a stay in Marettimo vary depending on the type of accommodation and the period, but generally one can find solutions starting from around 75-80 euro per night.
Marettimo’s cuisine is a celebration of the flavours of the sea, based on fresh fish and local produce. Tuna, although there is no longer an active tuna fishery on the island, remains a symbol of Egadi gastronomy, declined in various preparations. Typical dishes not to be missed include frascatola (a kind of couscous with fish soup), pasta with lobster broth, spaghetti with sardines, fish couscous and numerous tuna specialities.
Recommended restaurants include Ristorante Hiera, the island’s oldest restaurant with a family atmosphere, Al Carrubo, which serves Sicilian cuisine with fish specialities, and La Cambusa, a place that also offers excellent aperitifs. It is always advisable to book restaurants in advance, especially during the high season.
The circulation of motor vehicles for tourists is prohibited in Marettimo. There are no car rental services. The best way to explore the island is on foot, following the dense network of well-marked paths. It is also possible to rent bicycles or scooters, although these are less common. To reach the more remote coves and sea caves, taxi boat services and numerous boat excursions are available. This limitation of means of transport helps to preserve the island’s tranquillity and invites a slower pace of travel and more direct contact with nature.
Marettimo proves to be an authentic oasis of peace and beauty in the heart of the Mediterranean. With its wild and unspoilt landscapes, its rich history, its jealously guarded traditions and its crystal-clear waters, this island offers an unforgettable travel experience for those seeking deep contact with nature and an authentic island identity, far from the hustle and bustle of mass tourism. From the magical sea caves to the scenic trails, from the charm of the Punta Troia Castle to the genuine flavours of its cuisine, Marettimo is just waiting to be discovered.