Alicudi

The most westerly and most isolated of the Aeolian Islands, barely larger than Panarea, is Alicudi, a true earthly paradise. With an almost perfectly conical shape, unspoilt, rugged and solitary, Alicudi boasts landscapes characterised by terracing with dry-stone walls, splendid sea views and the small boats of fishermen.

Alicudi has only one inhabited centre, located on the eastern slope, divided into small hamlets: Alicudi Porto, Contrada Tonna, San Bartolo, Contrada Pianicello and Contrada Sgurbio.

Monte Filo dell’Arpa reaches 675 metres above sea level, though in reality it extends much deeper. This steep mountain is the cone of an extinct volcano that plunges more than 1,500 metres into the depths of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

The beaches of Alicudi are found within narrow granite inlets and are mainly accessible by sea; the only one you can reach on foot is the one near the port.

Alicudi has retained its natural charm intact and is the ideal destination for those seeking relaxation, peace and quiet, and a love of nature. There are no nightclubs, pubs, banks or cash machines, just a small restaurant with a unique atmosphere and plenty of tranquillity.

Alicudi has no asphalt roads but rather paths suited to donkeys, the island’s only form of transport, stone-paved tracks and steps.

Alicudi is connected to the other islands of the Archipelago by hydrofoils and ferries.

The coastline and beaches of Alicudi

To make the most of your holiday and get an idea of Alicudi’s beaches, arrange a boat tour of the island, which will allow you to fully appreciate its beauty and rugged coastline.

The small and idyllic island of Alicudi boasts just one beach accessible on foot, the grey pebble beach of Alicudi Porto, and several tiny wild coves, almost all on the eastern slope near the only inhabited centre, accessible only by boat.

The coastline is predominantly high and inlaid with volcanic caves. The pebble beach of Bazzina, situated on the eastern coast, not far from the port, is an enchanting inlet with fairly shallow waters.

The Palomba landing is ideal for both divers and hikers.

Things to do at Alicudi

Without roads, Alicudi is the wildest of the Aeolian Islands.

The rugged and jagged coasts of Alicudi can be explored by boat from the island’s only inhabited centre, whilst Monte Filo dell’Arpa, the summit of the now extinct volcano that makes up the island, is crossed by numerous mule tracks that start from Alicudi Porto and lead to the valley where lava once flowed before emptying into the sea and to the summit itself. The paths also allow you to walk right around the island.

Alicudi’s beaches, tiny and pebbly, are ideal for snorkelling. The excursion to Scoglio Galera, along the western coast of the island, is particularly worthwhile.

The small cluster of houses that make up Contrada Tonna will allow you to admire the typical architecture of the Aeolian Islands.

Don’t miss the Church of San Bartolo, patron saint of the Aeolian Islands. A boat tour of the island also allows you to visit the inhospitable yet beautiful western part of Alicudi.

Where to stay at Alicudi

Most visitors come to the island for a day trip by boat, but if you want to stay overnight, be aware that the few accommodations on Alicudi are located in the immediate vicinity of the port, in the south of the island.

Recommended hotels in Alicudi