Zembra / Zembretta

Far out at sea can be seen the outlines of two rocky islands, Zembra and Zembretta, known to the Romans as the Aegimuri. The islands are now a marine nature reserve, in which the oldest species of seal known to man, the monk seal, is now again gradually increasing in numbers. In spring thousands of shearwaters nest here and millions of migrant birds pause on their way to Europe. The smaller of the two islands, Zembretta, has a lighthouse but is otherwise uninhabited. The larger one, Zembra (area 5sq.km/2sq.miles; alt. 432m/1,417ft), was formerly a quarantine station for pilgrims to Mecca. It now has a diving center (established 1963) and a yachting harbor (diving and sailing schools). Accommodation is in modest huts and comfortable chalets. There is an irregular boat service from Sidi Daoud to Zembra.