Western Sicily, Italy

About Western Sicily

Western Sicily is better known for the vast flat lagoon at Lo Stagnone, but Puzziteddu, near Mazara del Vallo on the south-west coast, is the other side of the island's kitesurfing: an open sea beach with waves.

The season runs March to October, with over 250 windy days recorded here annually and thermal effect adding strength through the summer. Wind arrives from the south, south-east, west and north-west.

The sea deepens slowly and there is reef, though the character of the spot is waves rather than obstacle — small to medium, well suited to intermediate riders and to anyone comfortable in surf. Wave action creates currents, which is the main reason beginners should not be here unaccompanied. The sources are specific: you want to be comfortable with waves and completely comfortable with self-rescue.

The beach has a distinctive raised wall behind it separating the riding area from the buildings and road, and parking is free. Sicily itself — Selinunte, Marsala, Trapani, the food — needs no defending.

When to go

Best months: March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October.

Kite areas

1 distinct riding area documented within this destination.

• Puzziteddu

  Best months: March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October.