Scala dei Turchi in Realmonte: Can You Visit? Where is it Located and How to Get There

The Scala dei Turchi is a white cliff soaring above the sea located along the coast of Agrigento. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Sicily.

It is a natural paradise sculpted by the relentless work of the sea and wind. It is located in Realmonte, in the province of Agrigento, and seems to be carved by an artist's skilled hand, protecting some of the most beautiful beaches in Sicily.

The Scala dei Turchi is composed of a sedimentary rock that is calcareous and clayey, known as marl, with its distinctive white color.

We have created a small guide on how to get there, with maps and beautiful photos.

The Scala dei Turchi appears suspended between sky and sea, and is not far from Porto Empedocle. Its name is linked to the legend that this place was a refuge for Turkish ships that climbed the steps in the rock to plunder the areas along the coast.

The typical stepped shape is due to the erosion process caused by water and wind.

This breathtaking cliff rises among golden sandy beaches; to reach them, one must walk along the natural staircase of limestone. From the top, the view is stunning, embracing the entire coast of Agrigento all the way to Capo Rossello.

In this corner of paradise, you will find sheltered coves and pieces of paradise protected by the white rock.

The staircase has been masterfully described by Andrea Camilleri in his work The First Investigation of Montalbano.

The Sicilian beach has been closed to the public since February 2020 due to the risk of collapses. However, there are significant updates for 2023.

According to the official site of the Valley of the Temples, the Archaeological Park of the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento will be responsible for managing the Scala dei Turchi.

Currently, an agreement between the Region and the Municipality of Realmonte is being finalized, which includes, among other things, the introduction of an entrance fee to ensure safety during the visit of the white marl cliff.

According to available information, the ticket will not only cover access to the Scala dei Turchi but also to the Roman villa of contrada Durrueli.

Currently, the Scala dei Turchi is closed to the public, but as we read earlier, it may reopen with the arrival of summer.

The reopening will occur with respect and protection of the cliff and may return to being accessible with limited numbers and an entrance fee. The methods are still unknown, so stay tuned for more information.

The Scala dei Turchi can be reached both by car and by public transport. By car from Realmonte, follow Provincial Road 68 until you reach the Scala dei Turchi, the beach is approximately 3 km away.

From Agrigento, you can reach it by taking the SS115/SS640 from Via Francesco Crispi, a distance of about 16 km.

If you are traveling by public transport, from the Valley of the Temples, you can take a tour bus to the Scala dei Turchi.

From the Agrigento bus station, daily buses stop near the Scala dei Turchi.

Why is it called Scala dei Turchi?

The Scala dei Turchi gets its name from Saracen pirates, referred to as Turks, who landed in this area in the 16th century. Learn more

Where is the Scala dei Turchi located?

The Scala dei Turchi is located in Realmonte, in the province of Agrigento

How to get from Agrigento to the Scala dei Turchi?

From Agrigento, you can reach it by taking the SS115/SS640 from Via Francesco Crispi, a distance of about 16 km.