The Stagnone Lagoon is the largest lagoon in Sicily and one of the most magical places in the Mediterranean. With its shallow crystal-clear waters, historic windmills, and breathtaking sunsets, this nature reserve offers unique experiences for all types of travelers. Whether you’re a water sports enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for relaxation, the Stagnone has something special to offer.
Here is the ultimate guide to the 10 must-do things during your visit.
1. Visit the Island of Mozia
The most fascinating archaeological experience at the Stagnone begins with a short ferry ride to the ancient Mozia (or Mothia), an island that holds the remains of a Phoenician colony founded in the 8th century BC.
Practical Information
Ferry: Departures every 30 minutes from Contrada Spagnola
Hours: High season (Apr-Oct) 9:30 AM-7:00 PM | Low season (Nov-Mar) 9:00 AM-3:00 PM
Cost: €5-7 round trip + €9 museum entrance ticket
Crossing duration: 8-10 minutes
On the island, you can admire the ancient Phoenician walls, the Kothon (a harbor basin carved into the rock), and the renowned Whitaker Museum, which houses invaluable artifacts including the famous statue of the Youth of Mozia. Plan for at least 2-3 hours to leisurely explore the entire island.
2. Kitesurfing in the “Gym of Italy”
The Stagnone is considered one of the best kitesurfing spots in Europe, with ideal conditions almost all year round. The features that make it perfect are the flat and shallow waters (depth 30 cm – 2 meters) and the presence of wind for over 300 days a year.
When to Go
Best period: April-June (maximum wind presence over 16 knots)
High season: March-September
Thermal winds: May-September, with peaks up to 40 knots
Several IKO certified schools offer beginner courses and equipment rental. Even if you don’t kitesurf, the sight of dozens of colorful kites dancing at sunset is unmissable.
3. Explore the Salt Pans at Sunset
The Marsala Salt Pans are the symbol of the Stagnone and offer some of the most photographed sunsets in Sicily. Walking among the colorful salt basins, with windmills silhouetted against the orange sky, is an experience that will stay with you.
Tours and Visits
Best period: April-September for the most intense colors
Hours: Summer 9:00 AM-7:30 PM | Winter 9:30 AM-5:30 PM
Guided tour: €8-10 (includes mill visit and production process explanation)
Sunset boat tour: €15-20 (includes a glass of Marsala wine)
The most visited salt pans are Ettore and Infersa, Genna, and Salina Culcasi. During the salt harvest (July-September), you can witness the manual work of the salt workers passed down for 3,000 years.
4. Visit the Salt Museum
Located inside an authentic 16th-century windmill, the Salt Museum will introduce you to the millennia-old tradition of producing IGP sea salt from Trapani.
Visit Details
Hours: 9:30 AM-7:00 PM every day (including holidays)
Cost: €2.50-10 (varies depending on the type of tour)
Duration: 45-60 minutes
The visit includes an introductory film, exploration of the mill with ancient machinery, and the opportunity to purchase IGP whole sea salt at the shop. Children will particularly enjoy the interactive demonstration of the mill’s operation.
5. Canoe Excursion Among the Islands
Canoeing is the most authentic and eco-friendly way to explore the hidden corners of the lagoon and get close to the untouched nature of the reserve.
Available Tours
Guided tour 4 hours: €45-60 (includes guide, equipment, snack)
Free rental: Single kayak €10/hour or €30 half-day | Double kayak €20/hour or €50 half-day
Starting point: Contrada Spagnola
During the excursion, you’ll navigate among the four islands of the archipelago (Mozia, Isola Grande, Schola, and Santa Maria), discovering secret coves, ancient abandoned salt pans, and views inaccessible by land. The experience also includes snorkeling in the clear waters.
6. Birdwatching: Spot the Pink Flamingos
The Stagnone Nature Reserve is a paradise for birdwatching enthusiasts, with over 170 species of migratory and resident birds.
Spotting Species
Pink flamingos: Spring and autumn (migration), some resident all year
Other species: Black-winged Stilt, Little Egret, Spoonbill, Kentish Plover, Curlew, Marsh Harrier
Winter ducks: Garganey, Pintail, Teal, Pochard
Flamingos acquire their characteristic pink color by feeding on Artemia Salina, a small shrimp abundant in the salt pans. The best spots for sightings are Isola Grande and the Ettore and Infersa salt pans.
Recommended equipment: Binoculars and a camera with a telephoto lens.
7. Boat Tour of the Lagoon
Several companies offer boat tours that circumnavigate the islands of the Stagnone, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of the lagoon from a unique perspective.
Tour Options
Complete Lagoon Tour: 60 minutes, €10-15
Sunset Tour: 75 minutes with aperitif, €15-20 (June-September)
Custom tours: Available upon reservation
During the tour, you’ll navigate through the shallow waters of the lagoon, passing close to Mozia, Isola Grande, and the ancient salt pans still in operation. Local guides will share stories and anecdotes about the salt-making tradition and life in the lagoon.
8. Marsala DOC Wine Tasting
After a day at the Stagnone, treat yourself to a tasting in the historic Marsala cellars, where the famous Sicilian fortified wine was born.
Wineries to Visit
Florio Cellars: The most historic, founded in 1833
Available tours: With guide and tasting
Pairings: Marsala Superiore with aged cheeses or Sicilian desserts
Many wineries offer tours of the centuries-old barrels and explain the Marsala wine production process that made this city famous worldwide. Some accommodations, like Villa Demirà, can arrange tailor-made visits.
9. Attend the Stagnone Fest
If you visit the lagoon in late July, don’t miss the Stagnone Fest, an event celebrating the culture, tradition, and nature of the lagoon.
Typical Program
Duration: 2 days (July 25-26)
Activities: Tastings, painting sessions, art workshops, sunset yoga, live concerts
Talks: Meetings on food and wine, sustainable tourism, and local heritage
Entry: Generally free
The event includes the spectacular “Landing of the Lagunari” with performances by the local folk group and activities for children with creative workshops.
10. Relax in a Villa with a View of the Stagnone
After exploring the wonders of the lagoon, the best way to end the day is to relax in a panoramic villa offering views of the Stagnone and the Egadi Islands.
Why Choose Villa Demirà
Strategically located just minutes from the Stagnone, Villa Demirà offers:
- Panoramic private pool with sea view
- 5 rooms with private bathrooms (ideal for families and groups)
- Option to rent single rooms or the entire villa
- Partnership with kitesurf schools and local tour operators
Many guests appreciate the opportunity to enjoy sunsets over the lagoon directly from the pool, with a glass of Marsala in hand, after a day of adventures.
Link to Villa Demirà: Villa with a view of the Stagnone
Practical Tips for Visiting the Stagnone
How to get there: From Palermo airport about 1h15 by car (A29 towards Mazara del Vallo)
Best period: April-October for outdoor activities | November-March for tranquility and low prices
How much time to spend: At least 2-3 days to leisurely visit all the attractions
Parking: Free at the Contrada Spagnola docks
What to Bring
✅ High-protection sunscreen (water reflection intensifies rays)
✅ Hat and sunglasses
✅ Comfortable shoes for walking on the salt pans
✅ Camera (get ready for memorable shots!)
✅ Swimsuit (for those who want to try kitesurfing or kayaking)
Conclusion
The Stagnone of Marsala is a destination that surprises and enchants visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a water sports enthusiast, a nature lover, a history buff, or simply seeking relaxation with a sea view, this lagoon offers authentic and memorable experiences.
The combination of millennia-old archaeological heritage, untouched nature, and still-living traditions make the Stagnone a unique place in the Mediterranean landscape. And when the sun sets, painting the salt pans pink and gold, you’ll understand why this corner of Sicily is called “magical.”
Ready to discover the Stagnone? Book your stay at Villa Demirà and experience the magic of the lagoon with all the comforts you deserve.
