Inside Sicily

Aeolian Islands in Sicily

There are seven main Isole Eolie or Aeolian Islands and they are located off the coast of the province of Messina.

They have such wonderful names as Filicudi, Panarea and Vulcano and sound like holiday homes for the Greek Gods in Sicily.

In fact, the volcanic archipelago was originally the mythical stamping ground of the 'King of Winds'.

Alum and sulphur were the main commercial products for a long time until pirates, led by Kair- al-Din, realised there was more money to be made by making slaves of the inhabitants in 1544.

Once things had settled down pumice again became an important commodity.

All visitors must climb the scorching white cliffs made of the stuff on the north eastern slopes of Lipari.

The Aeolian Islands can be reached by boat or hydrofoil from Messina, Milazzo, Livorno and Naples.

In the summer season this also includes the ports of Capo D'Orlando, Patti Marina as well as Palermo, Cefalu and Vibo Valentia.

Our tip: head to the east coast of Alicudi for the beaches, grottoes and crystal clear sea full of lobster.

Read on here for your holiday on Salina