This butterfly-shaped Mediterranean island has ancient limestone quarries, clear blue coves, and a historic tuna fishing industry dating back to Arab rule.
Favignana, the largest of Italy's Egadi Islands, lies in the Mediterranean Sea 7 kilometers off Sicily's western coast. You can swim in turquoise waters at Cala Rossa's limestone coves, learn about traditional tuna fishing at the old Florio Factory, or cycle past ancient stone quarries where locals now grow citrus and fig trees. The island's clear waters and rocky coastline create natural swimming pools carved from former quarry sites.
Getting Around Favignana
The eastern side of Favignana is flat, while the western part rises into hills leading to Monte Santa Caterina. You'll find bike rental shops near the port where you can rent a bicycle with a lock chain for €10 per day. The island's small size means you can cycle to most beaches and sites within 20-30 minutes.
Swimming Spots and Beaches
The 33-kilometer coastline creates many distinct swimming areas. At Cala Rossa, you can swim in blue waters surrounded by limestone walls of an old quarry. Families with children often head to Lido Burrone for its long sandy beach. At Cala Azzurra, you'll find a mix of white sand beaches and rock formations, while Bue Marino's quarry-carved pools make unique swimming spots.
Marine Protected Area
The waters surrounding Favignana are part of a 54,000-hectare marine reserve - the largest in Europe. Atlantic marine species migrate through these waters, creating an active ecosystem where sea turtles, dolphins, and many fish species live. You can join local fishermen on boat tours to learn about traditional tuna fishing methods.
The Florio Factory Museum
This former tuna processing facility now houses exhibits about maritime industry, with archaeological finds and historical photographs. The museum documents local fishing traditions, and former factory workers guide visitors through the building, explaining its operations and the traditional "mattanza" tuna fishing technique.
Local Food and Cuisine
Restaurants across the island serve fresh seafood, especially tuna - as tartare, grilled steaks, and fishballs. Try the local pasta alla bottarga made with dried tuna roe. The menus also include pasta with sea urchins, local lobster, and couscous that reflects Sicily's North African influences.
Stone Quarries and Gardens
In the northeastern area, local residents have transformed old calcarenite quarries into private gardens. These sheltered spaces now grow figs, almonds, and citrus trees. Along the coast, the geometric cuts in quarry walls create natural swimming pools, with stone ledges and clear waters.
