Cala del Preveto: a hidden treasure in Favignana

Cala del Preveto, on the south-west coast of Favignana, is still little known compared with other Egadi coves. The absence of mass tourism makes it perfect for anyone seeking a genuine connection with nature: cliffs, crystal-clear water and two islets just offshore.

The silence of Cala del Preveto

The cove is made of large pebbles and washed by clear water in shades of blue and turquoise. Unlike other parts of the island, it stays quiet even in midsummer: the right place to read, rest and listen to nothing but the sea.

Even the name has something mysterious about it. According to legend, it comes from religious figures who once lived on the islet opposite (“preveto” recalls the Italian word for priest). The ruins there, however, look more like a stable than a convent, and the debate among islanders is still open.

What to know before you go

A free beach with no facilities

There are no bars, beach clubs or rentals: bring water, food and sun protection for a self-sufficient day. The hollows in the cliff do offer natural shelter from the sun.

Water shoes are essential

The pebbles can be uneven, both on shore and in the water. Water shoes protect you from cuts and slips when getting in and out of the sea.

For experienced swimmers

The water gets deep straight away: the cove is not suitable for small children or people with reduced mobility. Experienced swimmers, in calm seas, can swim out to Preveto islet.

The best time to go

Thanks to the low number of visitors, you can find shade even in July and August. The sea is at its best with north-westerly, northerly or north-easterly winds, which keep the south coast calm and free of currents. Check the Favignana weather before setting off.

How to get to Cala del Preveto

You can arrive by land or by sea, and each option has its advantages.

By land

From the village, follow the road south towards Marasolo and go through the island’s only tunnel. Leave your vehicle in the parking spaces in the area and continue on foot for about 300-400 metres along an unmarked dirt path. By car it takes about 6 minutes, by bike around ten. See all alternatives on our getting around Favignana page.

By boat

From the sea the cove shows its most authentic side. You can join one of the boat trips departing from the harbour or consider boat and RIB rentals for a free itinerary among nearby coves and caves. In this case, your time ashore depends on weather and sailing.

The Preveto and Galeotta islets

Preveto islet

This small uninhabited islet lies just over 200 metres from the coast. Its cliffs, between 2 and 8 metres high, are surrounded by clear water much loved by snorkelers and divers. On the north-east side there is a tiny beach, Cala Pirreca, often covered with dried posidonia.

In May the islet becomes a refuge for nesting yellow-legged gulls, which is why islanders also call it the “Island of the Gulls”.

Galeotta islet

Next to Preveto is Galeotta, smaller but famous among divers for its biodiversity. The seabed slopes gradually from about 3 to over 30 metres; among rocks and crevices you can see octopus, moray eels, sea bream, starfish, nudibranchs, sponges and colourful corals. The name is said to come from the “galeotta”, a light, fast boat used in past centuries.

Remember that the whole area is part of the Egadi Islands Marine Protected Area: follow the access rules and do not disturb wildlife.

In the surroundings

Heading east along the Punta Sottile road you will find the beaches of Marasolo and Calamoni and, a little further, Lido Burrone beach. In the opposite direction are Cala Stornello, with its jagged coastline, and Cala Rotonda, famous for the Arch of Ulysses.

For the full picture of the island, read our guide to what to see in Favignana.

Frequently asked questions

Is Cala del Preveto crowded?

No, it is one of Favignana’s quietest coves even in midsummer, thanks to its less direct access and the absence of facilities.

Do I need water shoes at Cala del Preveto?

Yes, they are strongly recommended: the beach is made of large, sometimes uneven pebbles, both on shore and in the water.

Can you swim to Preveto islet?

The islet lies just over 200 metres from the shore and can be reached by experienced swimmers, only in calm seas and with great caution.