Tour the Aeolian Islands

The seven gems of the Mediterranean Sea known as the Aeolian Islands boast a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. Formed by Volcanic activity these miraculous islands are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and are rich in culture. Located at the tip of the toe off the coast of Italy, Lipari, Vulcano, Salina, Stromboli, Filicudi, Alicudi, and Panarea offer a wide range of activities for tourists.

 

Lipari

Known as the largest of the seven islands Lipari’s port is an ideal base to start from. The village buildings are decorated in pastel colors thriving with restaurants, shops, and cafes in the summer months. Outside of the village, the island has winding walking trails with lava sand and pebble beaches ready to be explored.

 

Vulcano

As you imagined the name, Vulcano speaks for itself. With the active volcanic activity on the island, tourists can enjoy hiking, cycling, and kayaking, and afterward can take a dip in the thermal waters by the wonderful Laghetto dei Fanghi mud baths.

 

Salina

One of the most favored of the seven Aeolian Islands is Salina. Rich in greenery with vineyards and locally grown produce Salina is considered a peaceful, relaxing place. Where those who wander into deep imaginative states of self to explore hidden treasures within. This quiet, quaint little island with two extinct volcanoes is a must-visit when touring the islands.

 

Stromboli

The most active volcano in Europe with eruptions happening every day, this magnificent island can be seen from the coast of the gods and is the closest to the Porto di Tropea. Two times a year the Sun sets in alignment with the top of the volcano and is called “Bacio del Cielo” which means the kiss of the sky. Although Stromboli is a small island, it is the most known of the seven Aeolian Islands.

Panarea

Is the smallest of the seven islands. It’s most loved by celebrities as it is considered the crown with pristine white beaches, turquoise waters, hidden caverns, and breathtaking panoramic views. It will feel as if you stepped into another world while marveling at the mass formations of rocks towering out of the sea.

The last two of the Aeolian Islands are Filicudi and Alicudi

Filicudi is widely untouched with small, traditional villages only accessible by donkey. This island is mostly abundant in wild beauty and has its own charm of ancient pathways. Alicudi is the most remote island of them all. Formed by a now-extinct volcano this getaway island is mostly visited by artists, and solo adventures looking for simplicity without the crowds.

 

There are many ways to tour the islands, but the most popular is by charter boat. You can customize an itinerary to your desired locations along with the freedom to explore them all by boat. Public ferries make trips to the islands daily and depending on where you arrive you can get to the islands within a few short hours. Catania, Palermo, Naples, and the Porto di Tropea have ferries operating throughout the summer season from mid-April to mid-October.

 

Our Path of the Heart Take Me to Tropea Retreat in June 2024 includes a tour of the Islands

Join our retreat to experience the Aeolian Islands and a trip to Capo Vaticano Thalasso Resort and Spa. All the details on our retreat can be found on Tropea Retreat.