Volcano Island, Plunge Into A Beautiful Landscape
Isola di Vulcano is one of those places that you have to see to believe. It’s a tiny island off the coast of Sicily, where you can do all kinds of crazy things like swim in hot springs, bathe in mud, and climb an active volcano. Yes, you read that right: an active volcano. Don’t worry, it won’t erupt anytime soon (hopefully). But it will make your trip unforgettable.
Things to Do in Volcano Island
This small jewel in the mediterranean, gets its name due to the combination of the four different volcanoes (Lentia, Piano, Vulcanello and Fossa) present merging together to forming this spectacular scenery. With an extension of about 21 square kilometers, it is among the smallest of the Aeolian islands, that a scooter or a bicycle is enough to visit it far and wide. Here are some of my recommendations of the coolest things to do on Isola di Vulcano.
1. Check out the views
Before you do anything else, you need to take a moment and appreciate the amazing views that Isola di Vulcano has to offer. You can see the other Aeolian Islands from different spots, like Capo Grillo, which is a hilltop lookout that will blow your mind .
You can also spot the faraglioni, which are huge rocks that stick out of the water like giant teeth. They look awesome in photos, trust me.
2. Explore the villages
Isola di Vulcano has two main villages, Vulcano Piano and Vulcano Porto. Vulcano Porto is where all the action is: hotels, restaurants, shops, and the ferry terminal. It’s a fun and colorful place, where you can mingle with the locals and try some delicious food. Vulcano Piano is more chill and rural, where you can see some old houses and farms. It’s a nice contrast to the busy port.
3. Enjoy the beaches
Isola di Vulcano has some of the most badass beaches in Italy, thanks to its volcanic origin. The most famous one is La Baia Negra. The Black Bay, which has black sand and pebbles that make it look like a scene from a sci-fi movie.
Another cool beach is Spiaggia dell’Asino (Donkey Beach), which has black sand and very clear water. It can only be reached by boat, or a short swim from Molo di Gelso. If you want to chill and tan, these are plenty of places to be. Here are some to consider
Not all are accessible by driving, a boat rental could enhance you experience.
4. Go to the mud baths
One of the most popular attractions on Isola di Vulcano is theola di Vulcano located near Vulcano Porto. These are natural pools of hot water and sulphurous mud that are supposed to have healing powers for your skin and joints.
You can dip yourself in the mud and then wash off in the nearby sea. But be warned: the smell of sulphur is very strong and can stick to your clothes and skin for a while!
5. Climb the volcano
If you are feeling adventurous, you can climb to the top of hot springs, bathe in the active volcano that gives the island its name. The hike takes about an hour and a half, and it’s not very hard, but you need to wear proper shoes and bring water and sunscreen.
The reward is a spectacular view of the crater, which spits out steam and gas, and of the surrounding islands . You can also hear some rumbling noises from inside the volcano!
6. Swim in the Acque Calde
Another natural wonder on Isola di Vulcano besides the climb, is an active fumaroles(emissions of suphurous gas from earth’s crust), which are underwater springs of hot water that create bubbles and whirlpools in the sea. You can swim in these natural jacuzzis and enjoy a relaxing massage from nature.
The best place to find them is near Spiaggia Nera, where you can also see some fumaroles (vents of hot gas) on the shore.
7. Have a granita
After all these activities, you might want to cool off with a refreshing treat. A granita is a typical Sicilian dessert made of shaved ice and flavored syrup, usually served with whipped cream and a brioche. You can find many flavors of granita on Isola di Vulcano, such as lemon, almond, coffee, pistachio and mulberry. It’s a delicious way to end your day on the island.
8. Go for a hike
If you still have some energy left, you can go for a hike on Isola di Vulcano and explore its natural beauty. There are several trails that you can follow
Thanks to Giusi, Guide from Walking Eolie & Sicily, for making this trip memorable. Book your guided tour to learn all the best things to do.
How to get to Vulcano
Getting to the island is not a considerable challenge from the Sicilian coast. I got there from Milazzo, but there are multiple ferries and direct hydrofoils leaving Palermo, Milazzo, and Naples ports. The company to look for in these locations is Liberty Lines.
The hydrofoil from Palermo to Vulcano takes approximately 4 hours to reach the island. The same company can take you to the other islands in the chain as well, which I also would recommend to any travelers. Particularly Panarea and Lipari if you are pressed for time.
