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Lookout · Agrigento, Sicília
Scala dei Turchi
White marl cliff formed in terraces above the sea, on the coast of Realmonte, about 15 km from Agrigento. Access to the rock is controlled; the entire cliff can be seen from the neighbouring beaches.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Scala dei Turchi
The Scala dei Turchi is a cliff of marl — a very white calcareous and clayey rock — shaped by wind and sea into undulating terraces. It lies on the coast of Realmonte, west of Porto Empedocle, about 15 kilometres from Agrigento. The name, 'stair of the Turks', comes from the tradition that Saracen pirates used the cove as shelter.
The rock is fragile and the site is a geological point of interest of the Região Siciliana. For this reason, climbing to the white part is controlled: access rules, visiting shifts and the number of people allowed have changed several times. Check before you go whether access is open and how it works; never climb on sections that are closed off.
Even without climbing, the view is worth the trip. From the sandy beaches beside it, such as Lido Rossello, and from the top of the coast, you can see the whole cliff against the blue sea. The area also became well known through the Inspector Montalbano novels by Andrea Camilleri, who was born in Porto Empedocle.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to two hours, including the walk along the beach and time at the viewpoint.
Best time
In the late afternoon, when the western sun makes the rock appear lighter and golden. The beach season usually runs from June to September; in summer the area becomes crowded.
How to get there
By car, it's about a 25-minute drive from Agrigento via the SS115 road, with paid parking near the beaches. Public transport to Realmonte is limited: a car or taxi is more practical. From the parking area, walk down to the beach.
Tip
Respect the tape and prohibition signs. Wear sturdy footwear for the descent and for walking on sand, and bring water and a hat. Do not take pieces of the rock.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Scala dei Turchi
Can you climb the Scala dei Turchi?
Access to the rock is controlled, with short visiting shifts and a limited number of people, and the rules have changed several times. Check before you go; even without climbing, the neighbouring beaches provide a view of the entire cliff.
How to get to the Scala dei Turchi from Agrigento?
By car or taxi, in about 25 minutes via the SS115. Public transport to Realmonte is limited.
Can you swim there?
Yes, on the sandy beaches on both sides of the cliff, especially between June and September.