Scoglitti

Scoglitti is a coastal settlement that forms part of Vittoria’s municipality, a vibrant town overlooking the Channel of Sicily along the island’s south-eastern coast. Scoglitti is a captivating destination that draws countless visitors with its pristine beaches of fine golden sand and crystalline waters perfect for swimming. Inhabited since ancient Greek times, Scoglitti has always been a peaceful seafaring settlement that developed significantly during the Roman era, becoming an important commercial hub with active trade connections to many locations across Africa and Asia. The fortunes of this territory subsequently followed those of Vittoria and Sicily more broadly, experiencing successive periods of Arab, Norman and Swabian rule.

In 1693, Scoglitti was severely damaged by an earthquake that struck eastern Sicily, and the town was rebuilt in Baroque style during the nineteenth century, aided by a flourishing artistic movement in the area. During the eighteenth century, Scoglitti (and Vittoria more generally) flourished thanks to the commercialisation of wine and other local products exported chiefly to the island of Malta. Scoglitti’s port also played a significant role during the Second World War, as it was here that Anglo-American forces landed in July 1943 during the Italian campaign.

Today Scoglitti is one of south-eastern Sicily’s principal tourist destinations, featuring a picturesque harbour that pulses with the rhythm of local life. Add to this stunning beaches of fine golden sand, calm transparent waters and a rich gastronomic heritage.

Scoglitti’s beaches

Scoglitti is renowned for its beautiful coastline and town harbour, where fishing boats depart at dawn carrying fishermen who catch the fresh fish that supplies many of the city’s restaurants. Scoglitti Beach is the main beach in the area and stretches for around 3 kilometres along the coast, providing the perfect setting for days of sunshine and relaxation. This stretch of sand is predominantly equipped with facilities, offering a wide range of services including sun lounger and parasol hire and numerous restaurants and bars. The beach is also home to an ancient watchtower that adds a historical touch to this beautiful location.

For those seeking greater tranquillity and relaxation, there is Torre Cabrera beach, which boasts golden sand and crystalline waters with gently sloping seabeds. Those wanting a wilder setting can opt for Due Rocche Beach, characterised by a truly evocative atmosphere thanks to its rocky formations and cliffs offering panoramic sea views. Approximately 2 km from Scoglitti’s centre lies the town of Santa Croce Camerina, which is home to the renowned Punta Secca Beach, a marvellous stretch of sand interspersed with rocky areas made famous by the television series “Il Commissario Montalbano”.

Where to stay in Scoglitti

Particularly in recent years, Scoglitti’s accommodation offering has expanded and diversified to welcome visitors from around the world and cater to various needs. This can be considered the ideal base from which to explore the coastline and the perfect destination for a family holiday, as well as for couples or young people seeking relaxation and entertainment.

Recommended hotels and B&Bs in Scoglitti

Scoglitti boasts a wide range of hotels and resorts that represent the best choice for those looking to escape the daily grind and treat themselves to a relaxing break. Many hotels, both offering half-board and full-board options, are located right on the seafront and offer various services and direct beach access.

Apartments and holiday lets in Scoglitti

Scoglitti has a range of holiday homes and apartments available for rent for medium to long-term stays. If you rent a house or apartment for several weeks, the tariff can be more economical than a hotel room.

This type of accommodation suits travellers who value independence and privacy, as you have access to a kitchen for preparing your own meals, whilst also enjoying greater freedom and flexibility with your schedule.

Things to do in Scoglitti

Characterised by cobbled streets and pastel-coloured houses overlooking the sea, Scoglitti is a beautiful example of Sicilian authenticity and folk tradition. The main square, Piazza Immacolata, is considered the beating heart of this welcoming and hospitable location, as it hosts the vibrant town market offering numerous local specialities and traditional products. Among the notable sights in the town are two fascinating Baroque churches that form part of the area’s architectural heritage. The first is the Church of Santa Maria di Portosalvo, an eighteenth-century Baroque religious building with a finely decorated interior; the other is the Church of San Francesco di Paola, characterised by sumptuous architecture and valuable sacred artworks.

There are also two must-visit sites in the area that have become famous through the television series “Il Commissario Montalbano”, which filmed many scenes here, contributing to the location’s renown. The Commissario Montalbano House is a neoclassical villa overlooking the sea that served as a set for filming several episodes. After visiting this, head to Punta Secca Lighthouse (in the municipality of Santa Croce Camerina), which was built in the nineteenth century and likewise became famous through the television series.

Moving to Vittoria, you’ll find sites of great historical interest there too, such as the Castello Colonna Henriquez, named after Countess Vittoria Colonna Henriquez who commissioned its construction in 1607. This fortress long served as the seat of the County of Modica before being converted into a prison; today it houses a multi-purpose civic museum and an art gallery.

What to do in the evening in Scoglitti

Porto Cannone and the Lanterna seafront are the heart of local life and a meeting point for both visitors and residents, where you can watch fishing boats return with their fresh catch and sample local specialities at the various restaurants in the area.

Especially during summer, Scoglitti comes alive thanks to numerous shows and events organised to entertain all ages. The town offers a rich programme of activities and festivals held during patron saint celebrations, such as San Francesco di Paola on the second Sunday of July and the feast of Maria Santissima di Portosalvo Assunta in August.

How to reach Scoglitti

The best way to reach Scoglitti from various locations around Sicily is by car, as the area is not served by local public transport. The connection to Vittoria’s centre, approximately 12 km away, is provided by the SP17 road. From Catania by car, take the A19 motorway heading south until the Siracusa/Ragusa/Airport exit, then follow signs for Scoglitti, first along the E45 and then the SS 194. Other major connections are the SS 115 South-Western road, which links Scoglitti to Comiso, Gela and Caltagirone, and the SP2 provincial road to Acate.

By train, the nearest station is Vittoria, which lies on the Siracusa-Gela-Canicattì line and has connections to major centres in the Ragusa region as well as Caltanissetta and Siracusa. The nearest airport is Comiso, located just 25 km from Scoglitti.

Scoglitti Weather