Discover Balestrate – Beach, Culture and Traditions

Balestrate on the Coast and in Nature

The eastern coast of Balestrate features a wide beach with fine sand. It includes both freely accessible stretches of beach and beach resorts. The sea, museum and church can be seen as different focal points of a day in Balestrate. When planning a day at the beach, you can therefore choose between a free-access stretch and a beach resort.

Beaches and Woodland Nearby

Lido Squalo Beach and Spiaggia di Sicciarotta are located in the immediate vicinity of Balestrate. Spiaggia di Piano Inferno Marina and Spiaggia di Alcamo Marina are located nearby. In Balestrate, a woodland area of community interest is the only equipped area where relaxing walks in nature are possible. Walks in the woodland are therefore a different activity from spending time at the beach.

Museum of Handicrafts and Natural History

The Museo etnoantropologico di Balestrate preserves old work tools, household items and everyday objects that bear witness to the handicrafts and traditions of the 19th century. The museum also has a natural history section with a shell collection. Alongside the work tools, the shell collection provides a focus on natural history.

Chiesa Madre and Architectural History

The Chiesa Madre contains statues and works of art. Among them is a baptismal font bearing the inscription “Sicciara 1880”; the architecture of its chapels is attributed to Damiani Almeyda. A guided tour of the Chiesa Madre covers its architectural history and the most important historical events. The year 1880 thus provides a specific historical reference point within the church.

Religious Traditions in Balestrate

Every year in Balestrate, families erect altars in honour of Saint Joseph; Saint Joseph is considered the patron saint of carpenters. These altars are part of the town’s recurring tradition and connect religious tradition with local craftsmanship.

Festivals and Maritime Events

Balestrate’s traditional annual calendar includes the Feast of Saint Peter and the Sea as well as a fish festival in June. Carnevalandia takes place in February as a children’s carnival featuring a parade of allegorical floats and a shepherd’s dance. The Settimane azzurre include regattas as well as sailing and maritime activities in May and June. The events are therefore spread across February, May and June.

Mango Cultivation and Visits to the Growing Areas

Businesses in the Balestrate area offer visits to mango-growing areas. There, visitors can learn about cultivation techniques and growing secrets and taste mangos picked directly from the tree.

Castles and Palazzi Nearby

The ruins of Castello di Calatubo are located in the immediate vicinity of Balestrate. The Castello dei conti di Modica, Palazzo Rocca and Palazzo Di Gregorio are also located nearby.

More places to discover: Godrano, Gangi, Alimena, Corleone, Belmonte Mezzagno, Vicari, San Nicola l'Arena and Grisì.

For the broader travel overview: Palermo.