Monte Monaco is the 732-metre limestone massif that towers over the southern edge of San Vito Lo Capo, giving the beach its dramatic backdrop. The mountain is a serious hike — the ascent takes two to three hours and requires a degree of fitness and appropriate footwear — but the views from the ridge are exceptional: the whole bay below you, the Egadi Islands to the west, and on clear days the outline of Tunisia on the horizon.
The trail begins on the outskirts of town and winds through maquis scrubland before climbing steeply through limestone outcrops. Spring is the best season, when the wildflowers are out and the heat has not yet built up. In summer, an early start is essential.