Aeolian Islands Complete: volcanic landscapes, charming villages, and secret coves

Stromboli is the most active volcano in Europe, a black cone rising from the sea in the Aeolian Islands and erupting at regular intervals, offering a spectacle unique in the world. The island, without paved roads, lives in a primordial atmosphere: the white houses of the village huddle at the foot of the smoking mountain, threaded by narrow lanes and silence. Guided excursions to the panoramic heights allow visitors to witness the explosions, while the Sciara del Fuoco shows the lava flows descending to the sea. The black beach of Ficogrande and the deep waters invite swimming. At sunset, arriving by boat before the volcano is unforgettable. Primordial and powerful, Stromboli fascinates those seeking the pure force of nature.

Panarea is the smallest and most fashionable of the Aeolian Islands, an elegant and refined corner loved by the international jet set for its summer nights. The low white houses, draped in bougainvillea, climb among car-free lanes scented with sea and flowers. The little harbour of San Pietro pulses with life in the evening, among restaurants and bars, while by day the island invites dives into crystalline coves and boat trips to the nearby islets and underwater fumaroles. The beach of Cala Junco, in a natural bay, is among the finest in the archipelago. Exclusive and luminous, Panarea seduces with its chic charm and enchanting sea.

Salina is the second-largest of the Aeolian Islands, the greenest and most luxuriant of the archipelago, recognisable by its two extinct volcanoes covered in vegetation. Far from mass tourism, it preserves an authentic atmosphere of small villages, vineyards and the capers for which it is famous. Its cellars produce Malvasia delle Lipari, a sweet wine with an intense aroma. The village of Pollara, the set of the film Il Postino, offers a spectacular bay at sunset, while Santa Marina and Lingua, with its salt lake, offer crystalline sea and fish restaurants. The trails allow visitors to discover untouched nature. Genuine and relaxing, Salina is the ideal Aeolian island for those seeking quiet, flavours and wild beauty.

Vulcano is the Aeolian island closest to Sicily, with a character strongly tied to its geothermal origin, which gave its name to all the volcanoes in the world. On arrival, one notices the smell of sulphur from the fumaroles and the famous thermal muds, visited for their curative properties. The climb to the Gran Cratere grants a spectacular view over the archipelago and the chance to look into the smoking crater. The black beaches, such as the Sabbie Nere, and the warm bubbling waters complete the experience. The boat tour reveals coves and the famous natural arch. Surreal and fascinating, Vulcano offers total immersion in the geothermal nature of the Aeolians.