Favignana is the largest of the Egadi islands which lie off the north-western coast of Sicily. Its butterfly shape is the reason for its alternative name of La Farfalla. Once the center of Sicily’s tuna-fishing industry, over-fishing and EU regulations have diminished its importance to the local economy which is now more dependent on tourism than fishing although the old tonnara (tuna processing warehouses) remain in situ at the port.  Favignana is almost completely flat and lends itself very well to being explored on foot or by bike.

Unsurprisingly, tuna-related products such as smoked and canned blue-fin tuna and bottarga are the souvenirs to bring home from a visit to Favignana. The craggy coastline is dotted with sandy beaches that are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with two of the most popular are Cala Azzurra and Lido Burrone. At Cala Rossa, the Grotto of Sighs is worth a visit. In winter the sound of the water flowing in and out of the grotto is said to sound like a human sigh, and there are good diving spots at Cala Rotonda, Cala Grande and Punta Ferro. The town of Favignana Citta is attractive and there is plenty of good eating to be found in the vicinity of its two picturesque piazzas.