From Milazzo: Panarea and Stromboli Boat Trip by Night
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The Aeolian Islands, of volcanic origin, lie off the northern coast of Sicily in the province of Messina and comprise 7 strikingly beautiful islands: Vulcano, Stromboli, Lipari, Panarea, Alicudi, Filicudi and Salina, plus 5 islets – Basiluzzo, Dattilo, Lisca Nera, Bottaro and Lisca Bianca – in the vicinity of Panarea.
Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2000, the Aeolian Islands are a true slice of paradise, boasting breathtaking beaches lapped by the crystalline waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, sensational views and fascinating geological features including the 2 active volcanoes of Stromboli and Vulcano.
The Aeolian Islands form part of an underwater volcanic arc and are bathed by sea that’s ideal for swimming, diving and sailing. These enchanting rugged and wild islands are perfect for trekking enthusiasts and those who love fine food alike.
Famous since antiquity, the Aeolian Islands featured prominently in Greek mythology and numerous legends.
Lipari is the largest island and often serves as a base for exploring the others, whilst Panarea is the smallest and most exclusive, frequented by show business personalities captivated by its unspoilt nature.
Salina is the second largest island, made famous by the film Il Postino starring Massimo Troisi, whilst Vulcano is renowned for its fumaroles concentrated around the Crater area and on the isthmus between Faraglione and Vulcanello, as well as its thermal waters and mud baths.
Stromboli, on the other hand, is known for its constant volcanic activity, particularly thrilling at night when the lapilli pierce the darkness.
Filicudi is the oldest island in the archipelago and, together with Alicudi, sits on the westernmost part of the volcanic arc. Both are less touristy, ideal destinations for nature lovers and those seeking peace and quiet.
The Aeolian Islands are a highly sought-after destination and during July and August they’re visited by sun-worshipping tourists from all corners of the globe.
The best time to visit the Aeolian Islands is from mid-April to late September. Before and after the summer months, the islands are quieter, more authentic and prices are lower.
Officially, the tourist season runs from 1 June to 30 August, with hotels receiving bookings for these periods from early in the year. However, if you want to discover the true character of the Aeolian Islands, we recommend avoiding the summer months while still enjoying the sea and fine weather.
Sea, beaches, nature, history, culture and gastronomic excellence – the 7 islands of the Aeolian Archipelago are a small world waiting to be discovered.
Lipari, Salina, Vulcano, Alicudi, Filicudi, Panarea and Stromboli are all jewels set in crystal-clear sea of striking turquoise hue, ideal for snorkelling.
Several Aeolian beaches have been judged among the most beautiful in the Mediterranean: Black Sands, Cala Junco, Praia di Vinci beach, Pollara and Venus Pools are undoubtedly the most spectacular.
During your stay on the Aeolian Islands, relax in the Mud Pool at Vulcano or amid the verdant slopes of Salina.
The fortified citadel of Lipari Paese is sensational, built on a rocky promontory between the ancient harbours of Marina Corta and Marina Lunga, and comprising 4 churches and the Aeolian Archaeological Museum, as is the panoramic viewpoint of Quattrocchi, 3 kilometres away along Lipari’s western coast.
Among the finest excursions on the Aeolian Islands are the ascent to Vulcano’s Crater and the climb up Stromboli to witness its explosive eruptions, which occur every 15 minutes.
For diving enthusiasts, diving Filicudi is unmissable. The island’s underwater archaeological site is home to 9 Roman ships plus two vessels from the early 1900s.
Alicudi is a wild island offering stunning unspoilt panoramas.
The 7 islands of the Aeolian Archipelago offer excellent boutique accommodation. The archipelago is wild and enchanting, and each island is unique in its own way.
Being the largest in the archipelago, Lipari is the most cosmopolitan and boasts excellent lodging facilities. Ideal for all types of guests, particularly those planning numerous excursions, Lipari offers a charming town, white sandy beaches and comfort and amenities. Lipari is also the ideal launching point for exploring the other islands in the archipelago.
Panarea, small and exclusive, is the chicest of the Aeolian Islands. Frequented by VIPs and jet-set personalities, the island has no beaches but boasts several nightclubs.
If you want to fully appreciate the volcanic nature of the Aeolian Islands, Stromboli is the right destination for you. The spurts of lava will leave a lasting impression on your holiday memories. Its black sand beaches make it an even more magical and enchanting destination.
Vulcano Island is famous for its thermal waters and mud baths as well as its pungent sulphurous smell. Not to be missed among Vulcano’s beaches is Black Sands, and for those who enjoy hiking, there’s the climb up the crater. Ideal for both mud bath enthusiasts and those wishing to explore the archipelago.
Green and peaceful, Salina suits families well. The island offers enchanting views of the nearby islands of Panarea and Stromboli and is ideal for couples and families looking to stay.
The extinct volcanoes of Alicudi and Filicudi are the most remote and westernmost islands of the archipelago. Both wild, Alicudi is an enchanting place to retreat to and savour a different kind of holiday, ideal for those seeking relaxation and complete tranquillity. Filicudi has the most beautiful seabeds in the archipelago. If you need to completely switch off from the daily grind, crave silence and peace, these islands are perfect for you.
During your stay on Lipari, Salina, Vulcano and Filicudi, we recommend hiring a car, scooter or quad to make the most of the area.
To hire cars, scooters or quads on Lipari, you can contact Pit Stop, at the main harbour next to the Siremar ticket office, or Da Marcello, which also has bike hire, 200 metres from the hydrofoil dock. Services also include free delivery and collection of your chosen vehicle directly to your accommodation.
Rent Bongiorno operates in Santa Mariba on Salina and, in addition to scooter, car, motorcycle and bicycle hire, also offers the chance to explore the island by coach. A specialist workshop provides 24-hour assistance. In Piazza Immacolata in Malfa you’ll find Merlino car hire where you can rent cars and scooters. Vehicle delivery is free, either at the harbour or at your accommodation.
To get around Vulcano Island, you can contact Paolo where you’ll find cars, mini Mokes, bikes, minicars, mountain bikes, trekking boots and poles. The hire shop is on the road leading to the Crater. The island also has hire shops at Luigi’s and Jolly Motor.
On small Filicudi it’s easier to get around by scooter.
The traditional cuisine of the Aeolian Islands is based on fish and aromatic herbs, including the ubiquitous capers.
The typical dishes of the archipelago’s islands reflect the succession of various rulers and evoke the scent of the sea and tomatoes. Malvasia, the nectar of the gods, is a liqueur wine produced using ancient methods of drying grapes on racks under the Aeolian sun, to be sipped before or after meals with sesame biscuits or honey and almond biscuits.
Among the seafood much beloved are squid, amberjack and lobster, perhaps sprinkled with the zest of Sicily’s citrus fruits.
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