Macchia Forest Nature Reserve of Irminio River
The Macchia Foresta del Fiume Irminio nature reserve is a protected natural area whose peculiarity is the constantly changing aspect due to the dunes moved by the wind .
Il River Irminio is one of the waterways that originates at the foot of Monte Lauro, on the Iblei and, after having deeply engraved the plateau between Ragusa and Modica, flows into the windy Sicilian Channel. In ancient times, the river was of considerable importance because it was used as a canal port by boats that wanted to go up the hinterland to make supplies. The port, which at the time must have been very flourishing, has disappeared over the years, due to continuous deforestation and the advance of sand.
The Irminio River forest retains its charm intact as the coastline has not been modified by man, it is one of the last habitats that characterized the Sicilian coasts.
Inside the reserve, in the hinterland, there is the typical low Mediterranean scrub made up of juniper, mastic and other species. On the banks of the river, on the other hand, the forest grows luxuriantly, consisting mostly of poplars and eucalyptus trees. The fauna is mainly characterized by migratory birds such as the buzzard, the egret and the coot that stop in this area during the migration.
It is possible to explore the reserve in a couple of hours, the walk is suitable for everyone and it does not require special equipment.
