7th Day - Zingaro Nature Reserve, Scopello

This morning I shopped stress-free at Lidl in Partinico. Yes, it was open on Sunday. And it was about five times bigger than a normal Lidl in our area. It was also visually appealing in terms of design. And mainly Italians were shopping here. Therefore, there was an attractive range of goods, with fish in all variations, a fresh counter with bread, and everything else you could desire.

After storing the groceries, I headed to the Zingaro Nature Park. First, along my favorite country road SS 187 towards Castellammare del Golfo. This time, without a detour to the nice fishing village and past the magnificent view (see 2nd day), until turning right towards Scopello and Zingaro.

At what felt like the end of the world, after endless bumpy paths, I finally found a parking lot with the southern entrance to the national park.

On the lower right was a nice place with tables and benches, so I simply went downhill on the path.

Once I reached the bottom, I wanted to continue along the coast...hm, that didn't really look like a path.

But I could somewhat walk between the large bushes. I heard voices at the top left of the slope, so I bravely went uphill. After half of the way, I had to admit that there probably was no path here...but turning around wasn't that easy either.

So I courageously walked around giant cacti and continued uphill. Until eventually, I was back on the path...phew, it worked out after all.

Once I reached the top, there was a path along the mountain with truly breathtaking views:

Well? Is that a bathing bay? And I didn't have a bathing suit or a towel :-(

Nevertheless, I decided to go there.

A rocky path with stairs led to Cala Capreria, and the bay got closer and closer. The thought that the way back would be just as challenging didn't bother me yet.

Once I reached the bottom, it really was paradise on earth. There were only 10 people on the beach, and the water was warm enough for bathing. Well, I was a bit timid...I didn't dare to go without a swimsuit. And air-drying afterwards wouldn't have been easy either. But I dipped my feet in the water and promised myself to bring the appropriate equipment next time.

After a wonderful break on the beach with my (at least I had thought of it) apple and a chocolate wafer, I headed back to the main path. "Heading back" sounds so simple, but it was already a small challenge for my fitness. And all of this without hiking shoes or a backpack! I continued along the coast towards the Museo della Manna, passing several bays and berry bushes with cherry-sized fruits...

and beautiful flowers...