This time I want to introduce you to Punta Bianca, a nature reserve on the Agrigento coast that looks like snow from a distance. It is made of white marl, a soft rock that erodes easily and forms spectacular cliffs, caves, and coves. Punta Bianca is part of a natural reserve that also includes Monte Grande, a hill that offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside. This place is a well kept secret and it is perfect for this who need a place to escape the crowds and enjoy the beauty of nature.

How To Get To Punta Bianca

I am not going to lie, it took me two attempts to make it to this place. I had first tried during the spring after going to the Scala dei Turchi, Turkish Steps. Unfortunately, a storm had rolled in and made it difficult to reach due to impassable roads. My visit to Punta Bianca was very spontaneous and interestingly, I didn’t know much about this place. I just a white spot on Google Earth and decided to check it out.

The Information and road signs are very scarce and you’ll have no idea what to expect, which makes it difficult to get there. By setting Spiaggia Punta Bianca on any navigator app it will take you to SS115 to a crossroad, where you will turn into SP71 where you might find sign directing you to Punta Bianca.

Once you find yourself in the dirt road, with ditches, stones and anything else that can ruin your vehicle, you know you are heading the right way. Remember I mentioned my first attempt? Yeah, I was in a small car and I almost got stuck in the mud. Good thing that didn’t happen, because cell phone service was mostly non-existent. Yeah, I had to call off that adventure.

I recommend you go with an SUV with all wheel drive, if possible. Believe it or not I made it with my small car, but this time it was during late summer when the weather conditions were better. At a some point I had to abandon the car in a pseudo-parking area and walked the last 1.5Km on foot, because I didn’t know what to expect further down the road. I am glad I did, because there were some areas where it would have damaged the undercarriage.

Punta Bianca : The “Snowy” Cliff

Punta Bianca is named after its white limestone cliffs that contrast with the turquoise sea and the green vegetation. The coast is dotted with caves, arches, and rock formations that create a spectacular landscape. You can admire the scenery from different perspectives: from the land, from the sea, or from the air. You can hike along the trails that run along the coast, bike through the countryside, kayak along the shore, or paraglide over the cliffs. No matter what you choose, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views and unforgettable memories.

I continued my hike along the coast, until I reached the most iconic landmark of Punta Bianca: the abandoned customs house . It was a large building that had been built in the 18th century, when the area was a busy port for the trade of sulfur, salt, and wine. The customs house was where the goods were checked and taxed before being shipped to other countries. It was also a place of hospitality and culture, where travelers and merchants could rest and exchange ideas.

The customs house had been abandoned in the 20th century, when the port activity declined and the building was damaged by earthquakes and storms. It was now a ruin, with crumbling walls and broken windows. It looked sad and lonely, but also majestic and mysterious. I entered the customs house, feeling a mix of curiosity and respect. I walked through the rooms, which were empty and dusty. I saw some old furniture, some tools, some books, some paintings. I also saw some signs of recent human presence, such as graffiti, bottles, and candles. I wondered what stories and secrets the customs house had witnessed in its long history.

I left the customs house and walked to the beach, where I decided to take a break and have a picnic. I had brought some bread, cheese, ham, and fruit, which I enjoyed with a bottle of water. I sat on the sand, feeling the sun on my skin and the breeze on my hair. I watched the waves gently caressing the shore, and the seagulls flying in the sky. I felt peaceful and happy.

Then I climbed up to the top of the cliff, where I found a bunker from World War II . It was a concrete structure that had been camouflaged with stones and plants. It had a small window that overlooked the sea, from where the soldiers could spot enemy ships. I imagined the fear that was running through the soldiers in this bunker as they saw the Allies invasion taking place to liberate Sicily.

I drove away from Punta Bianca, feeling grateful and satisfied. I had spent a day in a place that was not only beautiful, but also rich in culture and stories. I had learned a lot, and I had also had fun. I had discovered a hidden gem of Sicily, and I had fallen in love with it. I promised myself to come back soon, and to explore more of this wonderful place and share this experience.

TRAVEL TIP : the best time to go to Punta Bianca is not in the morning as many recommend. Go there in the early afternoon and stay until sunset: less heat, fewer people, better light for photos, guaranteed emotions.

• italy
• Sicily
• Sigonella