The Aeolian Sea gives way to a glittering volcanic archipelago containing six equally fascinating islands, all of which any tourist would be
ecstatic to explore. Also known as the Lipari Islands, they are located just north of Milazzo. All the islands are contained within a small area located
only a short ferry ride from Sicily's eastern Tyrrhenian coast.
Alicudi and Filicudi, to the west, seem to be the Italian versions of the Hawaiian island Lana'i - each beautiful and unspoiled, both rather
unpopulated and undeveloped. Lipari and Vulcano are separated by a mere half mile of water. The water in between the islands is renowned for its
naturally occurring hot muds, whose therapeutic properties are offered in the form of baths in every beauty spot and resort on the islands. Salina, the
second largest island, is famous for its rich Aeolian wine, Malvasia, and is arguably the most popular vacation venue. Only six miles northeast of
Salina is the miniscule, intricate island of Panarea. Avoid this island in August unless you want to join the invasion of the ' beautiful people' from
Milan and Rome who arrive in droves each and every day. If you're looking for action but don't want to fight hoards of tourists, check out Stromboli,
complete with an active volcano which erupts approximately every 47 minutes. Both volcanoes on Stromboli and on appropriately-named Vulcano erupt fairly
frequently. Terrain-wise, these two islands are fairly rugged, with deep caverns, steep cliffs, and astronomical views. The most fun to be had on these
two islands are the night treks to the volcanoes' summits. It's an incredible experience, but be warned: There are trek guides for a reason. Utilize
them. Not even residents make the trek alone.
These islands offer exclusive tourist resorts, rugged architecture, spectacular scenery, fertile vineyards, and even solitude for those who
desperately seek a release from the crowds of society in amongst the breezy waves of the Isole Eoli. You'll find castles, thermal resorts, water sports,
good fishing and, obviously, some out-of-this-world beaches, where even a heavy breeze doesn't stir the densely packed sand.
Ironically, the islands were named by ancient Greeks who believed the islands were the home of the God of Wind, Aeolus. Homer also wrote of the
islands in the poetic, classic literary manifesto 'The Odyssey.' The history of the Lipari Islands parallels the dense histories of Sicily and Calabria.
Settled in Neolithic times, the islands were colonized by Greeks in 575 BC. The Turks attacked Lipari, the largest island, in 1544. Pirates often sought
refuge in the islands over the centuries.
The Lipari Islands offer a little of everything for everyone, providing the opportunity for a fantastic vacation for even the most selective
relaxation connoisseur. Take a moment to explore these fascinating islands. Then hop on a plane and get there. You won't be disappointed.
This article was written by staff writer Sabrina Friedman. |
