Ghar el-Melh
غار الملح
A historic pirate port and Ottoman fortress town on a lagoon, with nearby sandbars and beaches that serve as a hidden escape for Tunis residents.
Formerly known as Rusicade, غار الملح was a base for the Ottoman navy and pirates in the 17th century. The town still has three Ottoman-era forts and an old fishing harbor. The harbor quays are part of the Ramsar wetland site, and flamingos are often seen on the lagoon. Outside town, Sidi Ali el Mekki Beach and a sandbar beach reached by boat offer clear blue water and few crowds. It is about 60 km from central Tunis, roughly 1 hour by hired car, and can be combined with the ruins of Utica and Bizerte.
Opening hours
Open all day