The Stagnone: updated guide 2023

The Stagnone Lagoon of Marsala is a coastal lagoon located on the west coast of Sicily, Italy. The lagoon is separated from the open sea by the Ant Rock, a tongue of land that divides the lagoon from the sea. The lagoon covers about 15 square kilometers and has an average depth of about one meter.

The Stagnone Lagoon is known for its wealth of marine fauna and flora, including the distinctive green algae known as “sea eggs,” which form due to the salinity of the water. The lagoon is also an important nesting area for numerous species of migratory birds, including the pink flamingo.

The Stagnone Lagoon is also known for its salt pans, which have been active since Roman times and are still an important source of salt production today. The area is also famous for growing grapes and producing the famous Marsala wine.

The Stagnone Lagoon is a very picturesque and fascinating place, with its crystal clear waters, salt pans, sand dunes, and the islands of Mozia and Santa Maria. The area is popular with tourists for water sports activities such as windsurfing and kitesurfing, but also for nature walks and visiting archaeological sites in the area.

Marsala’s Stagnone Lagoon is a popular area for water sports practitioners, particularly windsurfing and kitesurfing, due to the presence of constant winds and shallow water, which create ideal conditions for these sports.

The best times to windsurf and kitesurf in the Stagnone Lagoon are spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November). During these months, in fact, thermal winds often occur, blowing in a constant direction from the land to the sea, providing excellent conditions for sailing.

During the summer (July-August), however, winds are less constant and temperatures can become very high, making conditions less favorable for practicing these sports.

Thermal winds can also be found in the Stagnone Lagoon of Marsala during the summer, although they are not as constant and predictable as in spring and fall.

During the summer, in fact, air currents can occur that are generated by the thermal effect of the temperature difference between the land and the sea. These thermal winds can blow in a constant direction from the land to the sea, providing good conditions for kitesurfing.
In general, if you want to windsurf or kitesurf in the Stagnone Lagoon, it is always advisable to check the weather forecast and wind conditions before doing any activity, so as to make the most of the available conditions. We recommend downloading apps such as Windfinder or Windy

In the Stagnone area of Marsala, one can find many options for eating and enjoying local cuisine. Here are some of the best choices:

1. La Salinella: a restaurant located within the Stagnone Nature Reserve, specializing in fish and seafood dishes. The restaurant has a beautiful view of the lagoon and offers a very relaxed and casual atmosphere.

2. La Cambusa: a restaurant located in downtown Marsala, known for its traditional dishes and wide variety of local wines. The restaurant also has a wide selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes.

3. La Pineta: a restaurant located on the beach at Lido Signorino, specializing in fish and seafood dishes. The restaurant has a large outdoor terrace and offers spectacular views of the beach and lagoon.

4. Vineria San Michele: a wine shop located in the historic center of Marsala, specializing in local wines and cheese and charcuterie dishes. The venue also offers guided tastings of wines and local products.

5. Al Convento: a restaurant located inside an old convent in the center of Marsala, known for its traditional Sicilian dishes and charming, romantic atmosphere.

Europe’s Most Instagrammed Mill can be found at Mamacuara now SEI, located on the coast of Marsala’s Stagnone, it is a great place to enjoy aperitifs and cocktails in a unique and evocative atmosphere. The mill has been renovated and converted into a bar-restaurant offering a wide selection of drinks and snacks made from local products.

During the summer season, the Mill organizes theme nights, cultural and musical events that create a unique and fun atmosphere. The view of the lagoon and surrounding islands provides a breathtaking backdrop for enjoying an aperitif or a drink with friends.

The Mill is open year-round, but hours may vary depending on the season. In general, the bar is open from morning until late evening and also offers lunch or dinner, choosing from traditional Sicilian dishes to international cuisine.

Advance reservations are recommended, especially during peak season, to secure a table and best enjoy the aperitif experience at the Biangardi House Mill.

Here are some of the beaches closest to the Stagnone Lagoon:

1. San Teodoro Beach: located on the northwest coast of the lagoon, about 2 km from the Stagnone. This beach is known for its fine sand and crystal clear water.

2. Lido Signorino beach: located on the south coast of the lagoon, about 8 km from the city of Marsala and about 20 km from the Stagnone. This beach has golden sand and shallow sea, ideal for families with children.

3. Torre Sibiliana Beach: located on the northeast coast of the lagoon, about 20 km from the city of Marsala. This beach has a wide white sandy shore and clear sea.

4. Marausa Beach: located on the north coast of the lagoon, about 5 km from the city by the Stagnone. This beach has golden sand and shallow sea, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

5. Santa Maria del Focallo Beach: is located on the southeast coast of the lagoon, about 50 km from the city of Marsala. This beach has golden sand and crystal clear sea, ideal for beach lovers.

The Stagnone area of Marsala is quite extensive and there are many attractions to visit, so it is advisable to have transportation to get around comfortably. Here are some options for getting around the area:

1. Car rental: there are several car rental agencies in Marsala and Trapani-Birgi airport that offer rental cars at reasonable prices. The car makes it possible to explore the area on one’s own and to reach the various localities in the area, such as Marsala, Trapani, and the salt pans.

2. Bike rental: many accommodations in the area offer bike rental service, which is an environmentally friendly and healthy way to explore the area. The Stagnone Lagoon, in particular, is very suitable for bicycle excursions, thanks to the presence of numerous bicycle paths.

3. Public transportation: there are several bus routes connecting Marsala and the Stagnone area with major cities in the area, such as Trapani and Palermo. However, the public transportation service is not always very efficient and convenient, so it is advisable to check its schedule and frequency.

4. Cabs and private transfers: there are several cab companies and private transfer services that offer transportation from the Stagnone area to various destinations, such as the Trapani-Birgi airport or nearby cities. However, prices can be high.

In general, car rental is the best option for moving around the Stagnone area of Marsala with greater autonomy and comfort.

The Stagnone area of Marsala is primarily a daytime tourist destination, however, there are some nighttime activities for those looking to have fun after dark. Here are some ideas:

1. Bars and nightclubs: Marsala has several bar and nightclub options offering live music, drinks, and entertainment. Some of the most popular bars are located along Via XI Maggio and in Republic Square.

2. Evening walks: Marsala offers a very charming historic center, with many narrow, picturesque streets that become especially picturesque at sunset. An evening walk through the streets of the old town can be a very romantic and atmospheric experience.

3. Outdoor cinema: during the summer, there are several outdoor film screenings held in different locations in the Stagnone area, such as Marsala and Trapani. These events offer a unique film experience under the stars.

4. Festivals and festivals: during the summer period, there are several festivals and festivals in different places in the Stagnone area, such as Marsala, Mazara del Vallo, and Trapani. These events offer food, music and entertainment throughout the night.

5. Beach parties: during the summer time, there are several beaches and bathing establishments that organize beach parties with music, drinks and fun until late at night.

In general, nightlife in the Marsala Stagnone area is fairly quiet and relaxed, however, there are some activities for those looking to have fun after dark.

To visit the islands of Marsala’s Stagnone Lagoon, there are several options:

1. Boat tours: there are several agencies that offer boat tours of the lagoon, which include visits to the islands of Mothia, Santa Maria and Schola. These tours are led by local experts and offer a comprehensive overview of the lagoon and its islands.

2. Kayak or SUP rental: One of the most adventurous options for visiting the lagoon islands is to rent a kayak or SUP board. This allows you to reach the islands independently and explore the lagoon at your own pace.

3. Ferries: there are ferries connecting the mainland to the islands of Mothia and Santa Maria. These ferries depart from the port of Marsala and offer a convenient way to reach the islands and spend a few hours visiting.

4. Boat rental: for those with sailing experience, it is possible to rent a boat to explore the lagoon and its islands on your own.

In general, a visit to the islands of the Stagnone Lagoon of Marsala is a unique and evocative experience that allows you to discover the beauty of this natural environment. It is advisable to arrange the visit in advance and check the available options according to your needs and preferences.

Here are the distances of Marsala Stagnone from the center of the nearest cities:

• Marsala: The Stagnone is located about 10 km south of downtown Marsala.
• Trapani: The Stagnone is located about 15 km northwest of the center of Trapani.
• Mazara del Vallo: The Stagnone is located about 30 km southeast of the center of Mazara del Vallo.
• Palermo: The Stagnone is located about 120 km northwest of the center of Palermo.