Few words on Marinella and the Reserve

There is plenty of information out there about the ancient Selinunte and I would strongly recommend anyone interested a visit to the place. However, the aim of this article is primarly to let you know more about the village of Marinella and the Natural Reserve of the Belice river at the end of a beach area called by the locals "la Pineta".

The village of Marinella di Selinunte has always been characterised by local fishermen, better known as the "Scarioti" or "Marinara". It is a pleasure to walk down to the "scaru" early in the morning and have a nice breakfast enjoying a cool lemon granita (a must have typical icy Sicilian summertime delight) and brioches while waiting for the boats to return from a night long fishing. In the winter however, to warm the heart, a "cornetto" (a croissant not an ice cream!) and cappuccino will do the trick.

People here are very friendly and willing to explain (strictly in sicilian dialect, italian and gestures) what is going on during "l'abbanniata di li pisci"; the traditional fish auction. Those are the right times to immerse yourself in the folklore and life of the place.

During July and August there will be many festivals, concerts and plays for you to enjoy. For the younger folks the "Ferragosto" bonfire night (on the 14th of August) on the beach must not be missed during which you will experience a midnight swim, guitar music and if you put money in the pot even food. Drop me an email if you want to join one of the many bonfire parties, I can try to put you in contact with someone.

During your stay keep an eye open on price as tourists are sometimes charged more than usual. Therefore it is advisable asking for a printed price list before ordering in restaurants. Same goes if you are shopping in a fruit and veg shop or while in supermarkets lookout for the price labels that by law must be displayed.

The best time in the summer to enjoy the beach, sea and wildlife of the Natural Reserve around the Belice river's mouth is by going there early in the morning or from 7pm until sunset. By then the scorcing heat of the day has loosen its grip and you can really relax both by lying down near the sea or walking close to the river banks, looking out for birds, lizards and beautiful wild flowers. The Belice Reserve has been established since 1985 and locals have proudly taken into their own hands the task of keeping it tidy and clean.

The young generation of Castelvetrano and Marinella di Selinunte is committed and strongly wants to improve the experience for tourists and we would really appreciate a feedback that can help us to do so. We are currently trying to put pressure on local "sleepy" administration to get the ball rolling on many key issues which need an immediate solution.
We would like to share the beauty of this enchanting place with you because Selinunte deserves it.

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