Riserva naturale orientata Laghetti di Marinello

Riserva naturale orientata Laghetti di Marinello is a protected area containing five brackish lagoons separated by sandy ridges along the Mediterranean coast below Tindari promontory. The system creates an important wetland habitat shaped by marine currents and home to specialized plants and animals adapted to this environment.

The site gained protection status in 1998, following scientific documentation of sand deposit formation dating back to 1877 by the Italian Hydrographic Institute. This official recognition formalized conservation of a natural system that had developed over many generations.

The reserve lies near the archaeological site of Tindari, where visitors can explore ancient Greek ruins and the Black Madonna sanctuary.

Multiple entry points provide access to the site, with Oliveri-Tindari train station located around 700 meters from the main entrance. Pathways run along the lagoon edges and conditions vary with seasons, so visitors should plan accordingly for their walk.

The sand formations shift continuously due to marine currents, displaying different shapes across seasons. This constant transformation means each visit reveals the landscape in a different state, showing the raw power of natural coastal processes.

Location: Patti

Inception: 1998

Operator: Provincia Regionale di Messina

Website: http://siciliaparchi.com/_riserveNaturali.asp?order=prov&voce=Messina&enteId=&risId=52

GPS coordinates: 38.14440,15.04230

Latest update: December 8, 2025 13:41