Sicily, the island being €kicked’ by the boot that is Italy, is notable for a number of reasons. Leaving aside its ancient and arduously-shed connections with the Cosa Nostra, the region is famous among tourists of all persuasions for its quaint towns, excellent food and drink, first-rate beaches and, more importantly, its stunning natural beauty.

This characteristic, which it shares with other regions of Italy such as Tuscany or Puglia, is what drives so many nature enthusiasts and lovers of the outdoors to rent villas in Sicily. The warmer months, when the region reveals its full natural splendour, are particularly popular among hikers, trekkers, cyclists, or simply those who enjoy wandering through bucolic natural scenery. It is to this type of tourist in particular that the lines below – which attempt to outline some of the must-see attractions for this part of Italy – are aimed.

Vendicari

One of the main attractions nature-loving tourists renting villas in Sicily will not want to miss is the Vendicari Natural Reserve. Located in the south-east of the island, this natural spot would be attractive enough to more private tourists simply on the grounds of offering beautiful, unspoilt and barely explored beaches; however, hard as it may be to believe, this is far from its main selling point. Rather, the main argument in favour of visiting Vendicari is that it is a yearly migrating ground for the pink flamingo, one of the most fascinating and visually striking representatives of the bird family. The location’s mixture of lagoon and sandy beaches – two of the flamingo’s preferred habitats – make this natural reserve an attractive migration spot for this species of bird

Aside from pink flamingos, nature lovers visiting this spot during the winter months might be able to spot storks, herons and cormorants, as well as other, more common types of migrating birds – such as several species of duck. A wealth of coves and buildings to explore and enjoy – including a 15th century tower – complete the appeal of Vendicari for tourists renting villas in Sicily, particularly during the colder off-season.

Mount Etna

Another, rather more obvious natural highlight of the Sicilian region of Italy is Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe and the second most active in the world. The imposing nature and reputation of this landmark makes it a must-visit attraction for not only lovers of nature, but almost any tourist passing through or staying at villas in Sicily; those who prefer to explore these natural spots with privacy and in their own time are therefore forewarned to pick their timing for visiting Etna carefully.

Alternatively, volcano lovers who do not wish to be subjected to crowds and bustle may opt to visit the nearby Stromboli volcano. Highly rated by volcano enthusiasts, this mountain may not be as renowned or impressive as its more famous companion, but it will not defraud the expectations of those wishing to witness the unique appeal of a live volcano.

Other potential natural highlights of the island include a number of other natural reserves, including Zingaro, Cappo Gallo, Monte Cofano and Cavagrande del Cassible, as well as the nearby Egadi islands, which boast plenty of stunning natural spots in their own right. A wealth of other, smaller natural spots ensure that a visit to this part of Italy will not at all be wasted for a lover of greenery and natural landscapes.