Balestrate, Sicily

Our courses in Italy are run in cooperation with AMFI International 
OID NUMBER E10034731

Balestrate is a small seaside town in western Sicily, located on the Gulf of Castellammare, roughly halfway between Palermo and Trapani. With around 6,000 permanent residents, its population grows a lot in summer as tourists and Italians come for the beaches. The town has golden sandy and pebble beaches, clear calm water, and a scenic port. Behind it are fields of olives, citrus orchards, and vineyards, giving a mix of sea, nature, and farming life. Historically called Sicciara (for many cuttlefish in the nearby seas), Balestrate also has sites like an ancient Greek necropolis, the Castle of Calatubo, several churches, and charming streets. It’s a calm place, good to relax but well-positioned to travel to many interesting Sicilian sights.

What awaits you in Balestrate:

Experience Balestrate. Lose yourself in the narrow streets of the historic center, savor the local cuisine in one of the many typical restaurants, and be captivated by Sicilian hospitality.

Atractions of Balestrate

Fishermen’s Beach (Spiaggia dei Pescatori). A charming pebbly cove near Balestrate, very picturesque and historic (fishing roots), nice clean water.

Spiaggia Libera di Balestrate. The free public beach in Balestrate, with golden sand, clear shallow water — good for relaxing without paying lido fees.

Le Blond, Lido Surf Paradise, Lido Ipanema-Copacabana-Lagoa. Beaches with full amenities (umbrellas, sunbeds etc.) near Balestrate; ideal if you want comfort.

Castello di Calatubo. Historic castle located between Balestrate and Alcamo. Has good views over the Gulf of Castellammare and interior lands. Medieval origins; strong views and photo ops.

Valle di Calatubo & Cuba delle Rose. The valley around Calatubo, with grottos, rural/manor-houses (“bagli”), old structures, and the small “Cuba delle Rose” (an ancient Arab fountain). Great for short hikes and seeing old rural Sicily.

Spaiggia Orientale di Balestrate. East beach of the town, more quiet, scenic, good for walking & relaxing.

Mount Bonifato. Slightly further inland, a mountain with nature, pine forest, old ruins, nice views over the sea and countryside.

Sanctuary of Madonna del Ponte. A religious & historical site just a few km from Balestrate, in Partinico, set in a scenic landscape.

Alcamo panorama

What awaits you nearby

Balestrate is also an excellent starting point for exploring the wonders of western Sicily.

Segesta: A few kilometers from Balestrate, immerse yourself in history by visiting the magnificent Doric temple and the Greek-style theater of Segesta, an archaeological site of great importance.

Trapani and the Salt Pans. Discover the city of Trapani, with its port, Baroque churches, and evocative salt pans, where salt is still harvested using traditional methods.

Palermo. The vibrant capital of Sicily, with its historic markets, Norman palaces, and lively nightlife, is easily accessible from Balestrate.

Erice. Visit the medieval village of Erice, perched on a mountain with breathtaking views of the sea, and discover its artisan shops and ancient churches.

Scopello and the Zingaro Natural Reserve. Enjoy the village of Scopello with its ancient “baglio” (courtyard) and the unspoiled nature of the Zingaro Reserve, with its hidden coves, scenic trails, and rich Mediterranean flora and fauna.

Useful information

How to get to Balestrate:
By car: Balestrate is easily accessible via the A29 motorway, which connects Palermo and Trapani.
From the airport: By train, rental car, taxi, private transfer.
By public transport: The Balestrate bus station is located in the city center. Several bus lines connect the city to the main centers of Sicily. We do not recommend using the train for logistical reasons.

Courses in Balestrate