The Bay of San Cataldo between Terrasini and Trappeto: everything you need to know about one of the most popular bays in the world that has made even Hollywood directors fall in love.
Sicily, with its rich historical past, delicious traditional gastronomy and enchanting locations, continues to amaze visitors. Not far from Palermo, there is one of its hidden beauties: the Bay of San Cataldo, famous for the legendary landing of the Angevin fleet in 1314.
This attractive cove is located near the mouth of the Nocella stream and offers an experience of unparalleled natural beauty.
Located between the seaside resorts of Trappeto and Terrasini in Sicily, the Bay of San Cataldo is a destination that combines the breathtaking beauty of the sea, sky and cliffs with a rich cultural heritage, creating a unique experience.
History and geography of the Bay
The Bay of San Cataldo is located in the heart of the Gulf of Castellammare, with waters that fade from dark blue to emerald green. This charming cove is accessible via a staircase overlooking the sea, which offers breathtaking views along the coast.
The area is also famous for its historical importance: in 1314, the Angevin fleet landed right here.
Other signs of the past can be found at the top, including a World War II bunker and a Norman church overlooking the beach.
Flora and fauna of Cala Muletti
The Bay of San Cataldo is surrounded by lush nature. From the beach, you can admire the majestic Grotta delle Colombe, a limestone cove known locally as "a rutta ri palummi".
The crystal-clear waters provide an ideal environment for marine life, and while exploring the caves along the coast, you can spot several animal species.
It is the ideal place for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts who love to observe the many fish species and the lush underwater flora present. Attractions and activities to do The Bay of San Cataldo is a real hidden gem. Access to this natural wonder is made possible by a spectacular staircase overlooking the sea. As you descend this staircase, you are rewarded with flashes of the crystal-clear waters stretching to the horizon and the striking rock formations along the coast. At the end of the staircase, visitors find themselves in a small, secluded cove surrounded by the cliffs of Cala Muletti and the crystal-clear waters of the Grotta delle Colombe. The atmosphere in this bay is magical and the contrast between the majesty of the overhanging stairs and the serenity of the place below is extraordinary.
This destination is ideal for reconnecting with nature and with oneself, for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts who love to explore the seabed of the Sicilian coast, or for sea lovers who often moor their sailboats or yachts in love with the context.
How to get to the Bay of San Cataldo :The Bay of San Cataldo is located between Trappeto and Terrasini, easily accessible via the State Road 113. The panoramic path offers a breathtaking view and leads to the sheer staircase that leads to the corner of paradise. To reach the Bay of San Cataldo, you can take the E90 motorway and exit near Partinico, then follow the SS113 state road. This itinerary is valid both for those coming from Western Sicily (Trapani, Castelvetrano, Castellammare del Golfo or San Vito Lo Capo), and for those arriving from Palermo and the eastern side of Sicily. For those who have booked a holiday home in Trappeto, Baia di S. Cataldo is easily reachable in 5 minutes by car or motorbike, or by sea, with the use of boats for rent at the Tourist Port of Trappeto.
Once activated, the promontory is reached by crossing a short stretch of beach, followed by a slight climb among the rocks that you encounter along the path. It is therefore advisable to wear closed and comfortable shoes and to be careful during the journey.
