Photo by admin – that’s me and my wife in Vulcano island : – )

It is not a secret that the Aeolian Islands are called the pearls of the Mediterranean. Surely you enchant their unique atmosphere, clear sea, white houses contrasting with the black volcanic beaches and agile life regardless of the presence of volcanoes. In the fertile areas off the coast of Sicily you admire growing vines, olive and fig trees in the wild mountainous inland countryside and smoking a volcano Mount Etna. In deep valleys you can see a beautiful cities with many ancient and Norman sites.

Due to its climate, beautiful landscape, exotic wildlife and beautiful coastline are Aeolian Islands looking forward a growing interest of tourists. They are suitable for lovers of nature and hiking, as well as for a sun worshippers and swimmers. Clean seawater and rugged coastline make these islands a paradise for divers and water sports operators.

Photo by admin

Geographical location of the Aeolian islands guarantees a subtropical climate. Average temperatures are acceptable due to fresh winds that pleasantly cool hot air from the sea and bring soothing moisture. In summer the temperature reaches around 35 °C, annual average temperature is 14 – 16 °C. An important climatic factor is the distribution of annual precipitation. Rainy seasons are mainly autumn and winter. Rain is usually rare in summer, it is usual that six months are totally without rain.

You can get to Lipari by a ferry from Sicily (a town Milazzo), where you can be transferred with your car. It is possible to move between islands by fast ships Aliscafo. The most popular type of accommodation on the Aeolian Islands are bungalows or apartments.

Aeolian islands offer really a lot. Certainly you should not miss the greatest attraction of the islands – a trip to the active volcano Stromboli. In 2000, the Aeolian Islands were included in the list of UNESCO’s cultural and natural heritage sites.

Photo by admin – Vulcano island

View Aeolian Islands – in Sicily, Italy in a larger map

The post Aeolian Islands – unique volcano islands near Sicily, Italy appeared first on Europe Explored.

Filicudi, Aeolian Islands, Sicily, Italy by Ghost-in-the-Shell

The beaches spread out throughout the island are pebble beaches rather than sand and while the main beach is the most readily accessible, many people prefer the secluded locations of the other beaches around the island. However, in order to get to the other beaches on Filicudi, you will have to cross sharp jagged rocks.

The island itself has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Just outside of town, along the man road that crosses the island you will find the archeological site of a Bronze Age settlement that was discovered on the island. The settlement was only discovered back in the 1950s and there are still regular digs going on in the area today.

Filicudi and Alicudi islands, Sicily, Italy by Tore Urnes

For those who want to get a true view of the surround waters and islands around Filicudi, you will need to put on some good shoes and make your way to the heart of the island where you will find Fossa dei Felci. The peak is situated 774 meters above sea level and from there you can see forever in all directions. The views at the peak are nothing less than extraordinary and if you are up to it, you simply have to spend the day trekking to the top.

An interesting place to visit on Filicudi is the Grotta del Bue Marino which up until the 1960s was inhabited by seals. Unfortunately the seals no longer live in the cave which makes visiting it a little easier. The nearby Cane Reef is also a popular attraction around the northwestern part of the island.

The post Filicudi – one of eight Aeolian islands near Sicily, Italy appeared first on Europe Explored.