Salina
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 1 January 2024
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The pretty, green island of Salina is the second most populous of the seven Aeolian Island that belong to Sicily. It lies roughly 65 kilometres north of the Sicilian mainland port of Milazzo, just beyond Vulcano and Lipari, the latter of which is its closest neighbour.
Salina is characterised by the protuberance of two long dormant volcanoes, covered with lush foliage; this is the most fertile island in the group. It's possible to reach the island by ferry (or hydrofoil) at two ports: Santa Maria Salina and Rinella. |
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On arrival at Santa Maria Salina you'll find a small port with fishing boats and a wide piazza that leads into the main town. You can happily spend a day here, relaxing at the few shops, bars and restaurants or walking along the lungomare (seafront) towards the beaches.
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Nestled in the heart of the Aeolian archipelago off the northern coast of Sicily, Italy, the island of Salina stands as a picturesque oasis of natural beauty and historical significance. With its lush landscapes, charming villages, and a history that dates back to ancient times, Salina has become a beloved destination for travelers seeking tranquility, cultural exploration, and Mediterranean allure.
Salina's captivating beauty is characterized by rolling hills, verdant vineyards, and pristine beaches. The island's volcanic origin has blessed it with fertile soil, giving rise to abundant vegetation and vineyards that produce the world-renowned Malvasia wine.
Salina's captivating beauty is characterized by rolling hills, verdant vineyards, and pristine beaches. The island's volcanic origin has blessed it with fertile soil, giving rise to abundant vegetation and vineyards that produce the world-renowned Malvasia wine.
History
Salina's history is intertwined with that of the Aeolian Islands, bearing evidence of early settlements by various civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines. The island's strategic location in the Tyrrhenian Sea made it a crossroads for trade and maritime activities, contributing to its cultural diversity.
The island's name is believed to have originated from the ancient Greek word "Didyme," meaning twins, which alludes to the twin peaks of Monte Fossa delle Felci and Monte dei Porri that define Salina's landscape. Archaeological sites, such as those found in the village of Santa Marina, offer insights into the island's rich past.
The island's name is believed to have originated from the ancient Greek word "Didyme," meaning twins, which alludes to the twin peaks of Monte Fossa delle Felci and Monte dei Porri that define Salina's landscape. Archaeological sites, such as those found in the village of Santa Marina, offer insights into the island's rich past.
Highlights
- Malvasia Vineyards: Salina's vineyards are famous for producing Malvasia, a sweet wine with a rich history. Visitors can tour wineries, sample wines, and learn about the winemaking process while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Pollara: This stunning coastal area is known for its horseshoe-shaped bay, formed by the collapse of an ancient volcanic crater. It gained fame as the filming location for the movie "Il Postino."
- Hiking Trails: Monte Fossa delle Felci and Monte dei Porri offer hiking opportunities, rewarding adventurers with sweeping views of the island and beyond.
- Beaches: Salina offers various beaches, such as Rinella and Santa Marina, where visitors can relax on sandy shores and swim in crystalline waters.
Visitor information
- Accommodation: Salina offers a variety of accommodations, including boutique hotels, cozy bed and breakfasts, and charming guesthouses in picturesque villages like Santa Marina and Malfa.
- Cuisine: The island's cuisine showcases Mediterranean flavors and local specialties, often featuring fresh seafood and regional produce. Visitors can savor authentic Sicilian dishes in local trattorias and restaurants.
- Festivals and Events: Salina hosts events celebrating its culture, such as the Malvasia Wine Festival, where locals and visitors come together to celebrate the island's viticultural heritage.
- Ferries and Boat Tours: Salina is well-connected to other Aeolian Islands, making it convenient for travelers to explore the archipelago through boat tours and ferry connections.
Isola di Salina
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Comunes: Leni, Malfa, Santa Maria Salina
Province: Metropolitan City of Messina Region: Sicily Population: 2,535 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2023) Size: 26 km² Highlights: ports, tranquility Recommended accommodation: Hotel Ravesi |
Salina Travel
If you're in the mood for exploring the island there are various options open to you; there are scooter rental outlets available or taxi drivers that will take you on a tour. There's also a public transport bus system in place.
Making your way to and from Salina is easy enough; most visitors take a ferry or hydrofoil from the port of Milazzo. The hydrofoils are the faster option and take an hour and 25 minutes. If you're planning on visiting a few of the islands on the same day, take note of the two different ports on the island. Apart from the main port (Santa Maria Salina), there are further connections available from Rinella. You will need motorised transport to get from one to the other though.
Head east from Salina and you first reach Panarea before moving on to the active volcano island of Stromboli. Heading west in the opposite direction you'll find the two quietest of the Aeolian islands: Filicudi and Alicudi.
Making your way to and from Salina is easy enough; most visitors take a ferry or hydrofoil from the port of Milazzo. The hydrofoils are the faster option and take an hour and 25 minutes. If you're planning on visiting a few of the islands on the same day, take note of the two different ports on the island. Apart from the main port (Santa Maria Salina), there are further connections available from Rinella. You will need motorised transport to get from one to the other though.
Head east from Salina and you first reach Panarea before moving on to the active volcano island of Stromboli. Heading west in the opposite direction you'll find the two quietest of the Aeolian islands: Filicudi and Alicudi.
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Arrival ports: Santa Maria Salina, Rinella
Journey time from Sicilian mainland: 1 hr 25 m (Milazzo to Salina) Distance from nearest Sicilian mainland port: 65 km |
Arrive by: ferry, hydrofoil
Arrive from: Milazzo, Messina, Palermo, Naples, Reggio Calabria Best airports: Catania Airport, Palermo Airport, Naples Airport |
