Vaccarizzo-Delfino: Beach, Dunes and History

Vaccarizzo-Delfino borders the Gulf of Catania to the east. Its coastal character is reflected not only in the names of its beaches: dunes and the nearby Riserva Naturale Oasi del Simeto also shape themes that can be combined during a stay. Those looking for a holiday apartment can therefore first consider whether beach days or nature observation should be the main focus. The area's history also offers another way to discover this coastal destination.

Beach and Dunes

The southern section of Spiaggia La Playa di Catania is also known as Spiaggia di Vaccarizzo-Delfino and forms a continuous beach with Spiaggia di Villaggio San Leonardo. This section, known as Spiaggia di Vaccarizzo-Delfino, is part of the sandy beach area of Riserva Naturale Oasi del Simeto. Here, the coast and protected area come together in one landscape, while the names identify different sections of the beach.

The coastal area of Vaccarizzo includes a coastal dune; a palaeodune area is also recorded there, based on maps from the 1960s. Palaeodunes are older dune formations. These two dune features broaden the view beyond beach names and add another, historically shaped aspect to the coastal landscape.

Wetlands and Birdwatching

Nearby Oasi del Simeto is a natural area with a different character. It includes coastal dunes, marshes and river landscapes, and its wetlands are of great importance to resident and migratory birds that stop over or breed there. The Oasi thus brings together different habitats and the importance of wetlands for various groups of birds. Trails and areas for birdwatching have been established in the Oasi; guided walks are also organised along the trails. Details about taking part in the guided walks may vary. This gives nature enthusiasts concrete options for planning their day: depending on their interests, they can focus on birdwatching or a walk.

Traces of Local History

The area's history can be traced through several periods. Vaccarizzo was historically a fief owned by the Bonajuto family. In 1696, Francesco Bonajuto bequeathed Vaccarizzo to the Franciscan friars in his will; a legal dispute over ownership continued into the 19th century. Until the beginning of the 20th century, agriculture and woodland shaped the area. In the 1960s, private homes and bathing facilities were built in the eastern part. The Catholic place of worship Nostra Signora di Nazareth oltre Simeto was built in 2013. Thus, the history of ownership, earlier land use and later development belong to different periods.

Planning Your Stay

When choosing a holiday apartment in Vaccarizzo-Delfino, it helps to decide what you want to prioritise: should the beach be the main focus, or would you like to include the birdwatching areas and guided walks in the nearby Oasi? For getting there, AMTS route 438 runs between Stazione Centrale and Vaccarizzo. Check the timetable before travelling so you can plan around the departures.

Discover more destinations: Ramacca, Torre Archirafi, Trecastagni, Petrosino, San Leonardello, Motta Sant'anastasia, Calcerana-Marina, Sant'agata Li Battiati

For the wider travel overview: Catania.