Cofano Mount Nature Reserve
The Riserva Oriented Monte Cofano is one of the most interesting natural attractions of the Trapani coast.
The sea, of an intense blue, surrounds the promontory and its infinite limestone spiers. A few kilometers away, perched on the rocky ridge, is Custonaci with its beautiful Sanctuary dedicated to the Madonna.
Inside the reserve it is possible to admire: the solitary charm of the small agglomeration of Tonnara di Cofano , at the foot of the mountain, and the Torre di Tono , built to defend the trap and the ancient fishing village; the small chapel of the Holy Crucifix ; the Grotta del Crocifisso , located behind the chapel and reachable via a staircase, a small cavity 60 meters above sea level; the Torre di San Giovanni .
Walking inside the Monte Cofano Reserve you find yourself surrounded by large meadows of dwarf palms and Ampelodesma. The typical Mediterranean ecosystem is characterized by low plants and few trees. However, there are some examples of Carrubo, Sughera, Corbezzolo, Mirto. The Sicilian Erica deserves particular attention, rare in Sicily. Sometimes you can see some pairs of Kestrels and Bonelli's eagles, while at certain times of the year the golden eagle and the honey buzzard have been sighted. Walking along the paths that run along the sea you can meet wild rabbits, foxes, porcupines, weasels, but also small reptiles such as the Gongilo ocellato, the Sicilian lizard, the Green lizard, the Gecko and the Hemidactyl.
The Cofano Reserve it has two entrances: east side and west side; a coastal path joins them. The average travel time is about two hours on foot, but it is also possible to travel it by mountain bike.
Inside the reserve there is also the Scaletta path , this ancient path, surrounded by lush Mediterranean scrub, which shepherds in the past used to travel along to reach nearby towns. After passing the saddle, continue on the forest path up to Piano Alastre where there is a seasonal pool which, dry in summer, fills up with water and small crustaceans in winter. From here starts a steep path that reaches almost near the summit, but it is advisable to climb only with an expert in the area.
