Custonaci is the perfect destination for those looking for an authentic experience in Sicily, away from the beaten tourist track.
Its combination of unspoiled nature, ancient history, living traditions and genuine cuisine makes this small village a fascinating place to discover.
Between the wild beauty of the Monte Cofano Reserve, the spirituality of the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Custonaci, and the history that permeates the Grotta Mangiapane, every corner of Custonaci tells a story that is worth listening to and experiencing firsthand.
Here are the things to do and see in Custonaci for a visit that combines nature, history, tradition and local flavors.
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1. Grotta Mangiapane: a dive into the past
One of the most evocative and symbolic places in Custonaci is undoubtedly the Grotta Mangiapane. Located along the coast between Custonaci and the hamlet of Cornino, this natural cave is famous for having been inhabited by man since prehistoric times.
The peculiarity of the Mangiapane Cave is that, unlike other prehistoric caves, it was inhabited until the 1950s. Here, the Mangiapane family lived for generations, and left tangible traces of an authentic rural life.
The Mangiapane Cave can be visited all year round, an unmissable place for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in Sicilian history and traditions.

2. Sanctuary of the Madonna of Custonaci
The Sanctuary of the Madonna di Custonaci, located in the centre of the town, is one of the main pilgrimage destinations in Sicily.
Built in the 16th century, this sanctuary is dedicated to the Madonna who, according to legend, was responsible for a miraculous rescue of some fishermen at sea.
Since then, the Madonna has been venerated as the patron saint of the city and her image is kept inside the sanctuary.
The church is an example of late Gothic and Baroque architecture, with a richly decorated interior and frescoes depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary. Every year, on August 27, a great celebration is held in honor of the Madonna of Custonaci, which attracts believers and tourists from all over Sicily.

3. Monte Cofano Oriented Nature Reserve
Nature and hiking lovers cannot miss a visit to the Riserva Naturale Orientata Monte Cofano, one of the most beautiful nature reserves in western Sicily.
Monte Cofano is a limestone mountain that dominates the surrounding landscape and offers a breathtaking view of the sea. The reserve extends along the coast and offers numerous trekking routes of varying difficulty, ideal for both expert hikers and families looking for a day in the open air.
Popular routes include the coastal path, which offers spectacular views of the crystal-clear waters and passes ancient watchtowers, such as the Torre di San Giovanni and the Torre della Tonnara. The towers, dating back to Norman times, were part of a coastal defense system against pirate raids. The reserve is also home to a rich and varied fauna, including peregrine falcons, foxes, and numerous species of reptiles and seabirds.

4. Marble Quarries and Marble Museum in Custonaci
Custonaci is famous throughout Italy for the production of fine marble, in particular the pearly marble of Sicily, used in numerous architectural and artistic works at a national and international level.
If you are interested in learning more about this important industry, you cannot miss a visit to the marble quarries, located near the town.
Some quarries offer guided tours that allow you to discover the process of extracting and processing marble, from cutting the stone to its transformation into precious artefacts.
To further explore the history of marble in Custonaci, you can visit the Marble Museum, located in the center of the town. Here you can discover the economic and cultural importance of this resource for the local community, through photographs, work tools, and marble samples.
>>> Museo del Marmo di Custonaci 328 111 6511
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5. Cornino Beach
For those who want to enjoy the sun and the sea, Custonaci offers one of the most beautiful beaches in western Sicily.
Cornino beach overlooks Cala Buguto, a picturesque bay with crystal clear water and a mostly sandy seabed, a stone's throw from one of the entrances to the Monte Cofano Reserve. Cornino beach is ideal for families and for those seeking tranquility away from the most crowded tourist destinations. In summer you will also find some equipped beaches with cabins, sun lounger and umbrella rentals and several bars.

6. Feast of the Madonna of Custonaci in August
Religious and cultural traditions are deeply rooted in Custonaci. Among the most important events is the Festa della Madonna di Custonaci, which is celebrated every year at the end of August. This festival, which lasts several days, includes religious processions, folkloristic shows, fireworks and tastings of typical local products. The procession of the Madonna arriving from the sea at sunset and then carried through the streets of the town on a cart decorated with flowers, is an exciting event that attracts numerous visitors.

7. The Living Nativity Scene in December
During the Christmas holidays, the Grotta Mangiapane welcomes a myriad of visitors eager to immerse themselves in the unique experience of the living Nativity scene.
Dozens and dozens of characters come to life, contributing not only with their presence, but also with their active work. Over the years, new elements have been added to the event, thus creating a Nativity scene that today pulsates with authenticity that goes beyond the simple representation of the religious event par excellence, the Nativity. In fact, it becomes a fascinating reenactment of an agricultural and pastoral world of the golden age of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.
Expert craftsmen from every corner of Sicily perform their daily work, skillfully re-evoking trades that have disappeared for decades. These ancient professions, forgotten and sacrificed on the altar of progress, hide an eternal beauty.
For information Tel +393401432291
info@grottamagiapane.it

8. Local cuisine: authentic flavours of the past
You can't visit Custonaci without tasting its typical cuisine. Being a town in Western Sicily, here you can find typical dishes of the Trapani tradition, such as fish couscous, pesto alla trapanese (made with almonds, tomatoes and basil), and fresh red prawns from Mazara. Custonaci is also renowned for its dairy products, such as pecorino cheese and fresh ricotta, which often accompany pasta dishes or are served with honey and homemade jams.

9. Follow the cycle path that goes from Cornino to Bonagia
The Cornino cycle path in Custonaci winds along the north-western coast of Sicily, offering a suggestive route immersed in nature. It runs along the crystalline sea, offering breathtaking views of the Gulf of Bonagia and Mount Cofano, a protected nature reserve. It is a quiet itinerary, ideal for cyclists and pedestrians, which allows you to explore the wild beauty of the Sicilian coast. Along the way, there are panoramic rest points, perfect for admiring the landscape and breathing in the sea breeze.
>>> See route

10. Ash Beach
It is located on the opposite side of Cornino (San Vito Lo Capo side) in the immediate vicinity of the Monte Cofano Reserve. The beach alternates between rocky and sandy areas, crystal clear sea with colors ranging from green to blue. In summer you will also find two small beaches that rent sunbeds and umbrellas. Rock shoes are recommended.