Sicily is famous for some of Italy's most picture-perfect beaches. But venture out of the seaside resorts and you'll be rewarded with rugged coastline, ancient caves and deserted diving spots, writes contributor Peter Briggs. A few miles southeast of the seaside town of San Vito Lo Capo in north-west Sicily lies a expansive nature park: Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro. If this area hadn’t been designated a reserve it would be full of private, fancy vacation homes.

Coming here, it’s better to bring a pair of comfortable shoes, along with water shoes to deal with the pebble beaches. Cars are not permitted inside the reserve so you’ll have to set out on foot through the roughly seven kilometres of dirt paths connecting everything. It’s approximately one kilometre to the first beach once you enter the reserve, and there are several rustic shelters where you’re welcome to stop and take a break.