Riserva naturale Pino d' Aleppo, Regional nature reserve in Vittoria, Italy.
The reserve spreads across a large area between Vittoria, Comiso, and Ragusa, featuring extensive pine forests and Mediterranean scrubland. The landscape shows typical features of this region with scattered trees, denser thickets in some spots, and low-growing plants covering much of the ground.
The area was protected in 1990 to preserve the last natural population of Aleppo pine in Sicily. This action helped save this rare forest type from further decline and loss.
The name refers to the Aleppo pine, the tree species that defines this landscape and grows naturally here. Local communities have long used these forests for traditional beekeeping and gathering edible plants.
The best way to explore the area is on marked paths that wind through different sections of the forest. Bring water and sun protection, as much of the reserve has little shade and can feel exposed on hot days.
The reserve is home to over 30 wild orchid species, some found only here and in a few other locations worldwide. These rare plants flower mainly in spring and offer a special sight for those interested in plant life.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.