Riserva naturale Foce del Fiume Belice e dune limitrofe, Regional nature reserve at Belice River mouth in Castelvetrano, Italy.
The Riserva naturale Foce del Fiume Belice e dune limitrofe is a protected area on Sicily's southern coast with sand dunes, marshes, and Mediterranean plants thriving at the river's mouth. The landscape includes shallow water zones, grassy areas, and shifting sands that create a layered environment where different habitats meet.
The area was officially protected in 1984 to preserve the coastal landscape between Marinella di Selinunte and Porto Palo promontory. This designation became a turning point in keeping the river delta and its habitats safe from damage and development.
The reserve serves as a place where people come to reconnect with nature and learn about how coastal zones function. Local communities value this area for its role in protecting the landscape where their ancestors worked and lived.
The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when birds and wildlife are most active and temperatures feel gentler. Marked trails and parking areas at the entrance points make it easy to navigate and explore the different zones.
The coastal zone serves as a crucial stopover for migratory birds traveling between Africa and Europe, offering them space to rest and feed. Visitors often spot unusual bird species that pass through only during certain seasons.
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