Balestrate, Sicily

Explore my beautiful hometown on the beach.

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Balestrate, a small beach town in Sicily, holds a special place in my heart. It's the birthplace of both of my grandfathers.  My grandfather, Angelo Saputo’s and our families home still continues to draw us back year after year. For over a decade, I've been fortunate to experience Balestrate's authentic charm, immersing myself in its rich culture and deep-rooted family traditions. These trips are always a journey back to my Italian roots.  

What makes Balestrate so special? It's the warmth of the relatives who welcome us with open arms, the shared meals around overflowing tables filled with homemade Sicilian dishes, and the invaluable opportunity to learn about our family history. I cherish the moments with my family in their kitchens and around their tables.

Spiaggia di Balestrate

From its stunning coastline to its local markets.  It is located just a 50-minute drive west of Palermo, this charming town offers seven miles of golden sandy beach perfect for families. It’s a quaint town; the beaches are rarely crowded— generally the climate is hotter and drier than other parts of Italy.

Santa’ Anna Mother Church of Balestrate Piazza Evola (left), Saputo House Today (right), Saputo House Past With My Grandfather, Angelo And My Great Aunt Maria (bottom)

People come from all over to enjoy the golden sand and the harbor near the center. It’s considered the last town in the province of Palermo. Balestrate Beach natural reserve rests in a deep curve between Trapani and Palermo. In the center of town is the rectangular Piazza Evola, anchored by the church of Sant’Anna. Piazza Evola is the meeting place for family, friends, and loved ones to gather any time of day, especially in the evenings and on weekends. The piazza fills with festivities every summer evening, featuring events such as theater and dance productions, band and music performances, and even my first Carnevale — public processions with music, dancing, and masquerades. So fun!

Via Roma is the main thorough fare of the town, connecting many dining options, from traditional pizzerias and gelato shops to restaurants specializing in the freshly daily caught seafood. The street’s atmosphere offers a focal point for both locals and tourists.

Each region in Italy has its own unique cuisine, and Sicily is no exception. Each dish has been shaped by its inhabitants over the years and is dictated by the seasons and local produce. The fish is unbelievably abundant. Sicilians are obsessed with freshness, often shopping twice a day to get the best of the best — from freshly baked bread and pastries to meats and fish caught at dawn. In fact, you might hear a local fisherman announcing his morning catch as he drives through the streets early in the morning. Prices, surprisingly, are remarkably affordable compared to Italy’s major cities.

Beyond Italy's iconic landmarks and bustling cities, like Milan, Rome, and Venice lies a deeper, more authentic experience. – They’re all worthy destinations, drawing millions each year. But what if you crave something more than a typical tourist experience you will definitely experience the everyday life of Sicilian families and towns. Small towns like Balestrate reveals a side of Italy often missed by vacationers. To me, that’s where the real magic of Italy lies!

Explore more on my blog post Must-see and To-dos While in Balestrate

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Ciao!