In this exciting new installment of “Trekking with Veronica“, I take you to discover one of the wonders of the province ofMessina: the Marinello lakes nature reserve.
The path of the Marinello lakes winds at the foot of theSanctuary of the Black Madonna ofTindariand dell 'Archaeological area of Tindarithrough a path that passes by three bodies of water of brackish origin. It is a Nature Reserve of unrivaled natural and scenic beauty.
The path of the Marinello di Tindari lakes is not tiring and takes about 1 hour. You don't need particular technical clothing also because a large part of the itinerary unfolds on sand and, precisely for this reason, it is also absolutely recommended for cyclists. The temperatures, especially in summer, can be high, so it is always advisable to bring a hat, a bottle of water, a towel and a swimsuit. In fact, it is possible to access the neighboring beach for free.
HISTORY AND LEGEND OF MARINELLO LAKES
Scientists agree in affirming that the lakes of Marinello di Tindari derive from the morphological variations of the territory which, precisely in these areas, have created mirrors of brackish water. In reality the legend is far more interesting. In fact, it is said that, in 1982, the tides have traced a lake with a profile similar to that of a woman with a child on her lap…. exactly with the same features of the Black Madonna of Tindari, whose sanctuary watches over from above and is connected to the lakes through theCoda di Volpe trail.
FLORA AND FAUNA
During the path of the Marinello lakes, if lucky, you will have the opportunity to see the rich and varied fauna that lives in these areas. Among the species that deserve a place of honor stand out themacrocephalic gobywhich lives at small depths on the muddy bottoms of the Green lake, the eel, thebig-headed smelt, the peacock, thepipefish, sea bass and marmora. Among the plant species, on the other hand, we should mention euphorbia, reeds, myrtle, capers and the classic and picturesque Sicilian prickly pears.
HOW TO GET
The most practical way to move around Sicily is by car. For tourists who come to visit the island, I always recommend renting a car in order to have complete freedom in moving around. To get to the Marinello lakes, whether you are starting from Palermo, Catania or Messina, you need to follow the A20 motorway and take the Falcone exit in the direction of Oliveri. From there, just follow the signs for the "Riserva Naturale Orientata dei Laghetti di Marinello" in Tindari.
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