A sweet Sicilian Island populated since the days of Ancient Rome, Ustica has long been a haven for those seeking baby blue waters, marine protected diving, a gracious local scene, and a warm welcome that binds the heart. While it may take its name from the word for ‘burnt’ due to its volcanic nature, life on Ustica is completely laid-back and ever alluring. Surrounded by beautiful beaches and decadent diving spots thanks to the Marine Park status, water babies will be in their element. Be sure to take the tender to the nearby caves to watch the light sparkle and dance on all shades of blue water. Walkers and nature lovers alike will adore hiking the hills and paths that crisscross over gentle volcanic slopes. In the center, a string of stunning plazas invites you to sit in the sunshine and dine on incredible local delicacies that call on the Sicilian art of slow cooking. History lovers will get their fill with a whole host of tunnels, museums, and archaeological sites on offer. For those wanting an island that delivers dreamy experiences on both the land and the sea, Ustica is it.
The Aeolian Islands archipelago is made up of seven populated islands off the coasts of Sicily and mainland Italy. The island of Alicudi is the most remote and is the least populated of the islands. It is a simple and unassuming place with an utterly unique atmosphere and a population of less than 100 people. Its rugged charm and isolation draw the intrepid traveler seeking peace and solitude.
Part of the Aeolian islands, Filiculi has several small villages and very fertile soil, with grapes, olives, grains and vegetables all grown here. The island is also of great archeological importance as it was a thriving site of production and trade, around 2000 BC. Capo Graziano houses the ruins of over 30 oval huts from that period. With only 300 residents on the island it is a delightful escape and a peaceful place to set anchor in one of the many quiet coves.
Located at the southern most end of the Aeolian islands, Vulcano Island is named after the Roman god of fire and is of course home to an active volcano which has had frequent eruptions. Don't be put off by the smell of sulphur - it has fantastic hiking paths, beaches that are characterised by dark, volcanic sand and mud baths which are said to have beneficial properties.
Stromboli is the northernmost island of this archipelago, which can be easily reached from mainland Sicily or from any of the other Aeolian Islands. It is the only island in the world with a permanently active volcano that juts sharply out of the sea, making it a unique charter destination. Because of the small size of this remote island, land transport is not available, making it an idyllic, unspoilt destination, excellent for exploring.
Panarea is the ideal destination for a luxurious island getaway. Everyone has heard of Capri, but in Italy however, the locals know of Panarea. During the summer, VIPs, actors, and Italy's affluent youth flock to this glamorous little island for yachting vacations, romantic getaways, and late-night parties. Even though Panarea has a rich history, including the remains of a Bronze Age village, tourism has not affected it much and it is still an authentic destination.
Portorosa is a modern and cosmopolitan tourist spot, developed with yachting in mind, yet it has still kept its rich cultural traditions. This is the best spot for a yacht charter if you want easy access to essential services and facilities all whilst enjoying a destination with unspoilt panoramic views of the authentic Sicilian landscape.
A success story of a destination - Capo d’Orlando is a small Sicilian fishing village that has risen to be a beloved tourist destination. Sitting on the north-east coast, this small resort centers around beautiful beach life. Stretching on for an impressive 2km and boasting fine white sand and shingle, a focal point lighthouse, and palm tree promenade, it holds the promise of summer swims and warm evenings with a drink in hand. The charismatic town backs onto the mountains and offers pristine sunset views of the Aeolian Islands. When not gazing at the horizon or swimming in the soft blue sea, there’s museums housed in 19th century villas, ancient frescoed thermal baths, caves and castle ruins.
Cefalu is situated on the north-east of Sicily's coast and is about 70 kilometers from the eastern edge of Palermo, while Catania is about 180 kilometers north-west. A charter from Cefalu is often considered as part of a Sicilian route as it is one of the undiscovered gems of the Mediterranean. Cefalo has a great beach and old, winding medieval streets, with lovely restaurants overlooking the rugged coast, serving lovely southern Sicilian cuisine. Cefalu is home to an impressive Norman cathedral with its Byzantine mosaics and imposing twin towers, making it one of the most impressive in Europe.
Palermo, Sicily's capital, is a beautiful, historically rich Sicilian city with wonderful architecture, culture and gastronomy. This ancient European city has existed here for almost three thousand years and during that time, it has been influenced by various cultures. It is particularly noted for it's Norman architecture, churches and palaces. Palermo has numerous points of interest that are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Palazzo Reale with the Cappella Palatine, the Chiesa di San Giovanni degli Eremiti and the Cattedrale di Palermo to name just a few.