Vulcano
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 1 January 2024
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Partially due to the fact that it the closest of the seven Aeolian Islands to the Sicilian mainland, the island of Vulcano is certainly one of the most popular. Aside from its geographical advantages, people come here to wallow in the mud baths and to enjoy the spectacular, unusual scenery on offer.
At 21 km² it's the third largest island in the archipelago behind its near neighbours Lipari and Salina. Despite being an active volcano, the island has just under 500 permanent residents, most of whom live close to the arrival port: Porto di Levante. |
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Most activity takes place in and around the port; this is where you'll find the famed mud baths and nearby hot water springs that come up through certain places in the sea.
Apart from lying on the black, volcanic sand beaches, one of the most popular activities on Vulcano is climbing up to the crater. Not for the faint-hearted, the climb takes around an hour and at the top you're rewarded with views down into the crater as it angrily billows out its sulphuric vapour. From here you also get some amazing views of the other islands.
It is possible to have a whole holiday on the island; there are hotels, bars, restaurants and shops, but most people visit just for the day or hop on and then off to one or other of the neighbouring islands.
Apart from lying on the black, volcanic sand beaches, one of the most popular activities on Vulcano is climbing up to the crater. Not for the faint-hearted, the climb takes around an hour and at the top you're rewarded with views down into the crater as it angrily billows out its sulphuric vapour. From here you also get some amazing views of the other islands.
It is possible to have a whole holiday on the island; there are hotels, bars, restaurants and shops, but most people visit just for the day or hop on and then off to one or other of the neighbouring islands.
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Profile
Situated within the enchanting Aeolian Islands off the northern coast of Sicily, Vulcano stands as a captivating destination that seamlessly blends volcanic landscapes with therapeutic natural elements. Known for its stunning vistas, healing mud baths, and mythical associations, this island offers a unique Mediterranean experience.
History
Vulcano's history is deeply rooted in its volcanic origins. The island's name is derived from "Vulcanus," the Roman god of fire and volcanoes. Throughout history, Vulcano has been inhabited by various civilizations, including the Greeks and Romans, who revered the island's natural thermal springs and sulfuric mud baths for their healing properties.
Highlights
- Fumaroles and Mud Baths: Visitors can witness the island's volcanic activity through its fumaroles, which emit sulfuric gases. The mud baths of Vulcano are renowned for their therapeutic benefits, with the naturally warm mud said to have revitalizing effects on the skin.
- Gran Cratere: Hiking to the Gran Cratere, the island's main volcano, rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the Aeolian archipelago and a glimpse into the island's fiery past.
- Spiaggia delle Sabbie Nere: This beach is characterized by its black sand, a result of volcanic activity. Visitors can relax on the unique shoreline and swim in the clear waters.
Visitor information
- Transportation: Ferries connect Vulcano to other Aeolian Islands and the Sicilian mainland. The island is relatively small and easily explored on foot or by renting bicycles or scooters.
- Accommodation: Vulcano offers accommodations ranging from hotels with thermal pools to charming guesthouses. Many of the accommodations are designed to take advantage of the island's wellness offerings.
- Thermal Spas: Visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation can indulge in therapeutic thermal spa treatments, including mud baths and thermal pools, offered by various wellness centers on the island.
- Cuisine: The island's cuisine highlights fresh seafood and local ingredients. Visitors can savor traditional Sicilian dishes while enjoying waterfront dining.
- Mythological Associations: According to mythology, Vulcano was the forge of the god Vulcan. The island's geological features and thermal activity are said to be the result of Vulcan's activities.
Isola di Vulcano
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Province: Metropolitan City of Messina
Region: Sicily Population: around 470 Size: 21 km² Highlights: mud baths, volcano Water quality: Blue Flag Beach 2021 - 2022 Recommended accommodation: Hotel Orsa Maggiore |
Vulcano Travel
The hydrofoil journey from Milazzo on the Sicilian mainland takes 40 minutes while there are a whole host of other ports from which you can sail including Naples, Salerno and Reggio Calabria. Closer still are the Sicilian ports of Messina and Palermo which provide further options. It's also possible to take hydrofoils to fellow volcano Stromboli, the main island of Lipari, the peaceful Salina, glitzy Panarea or the sleepy pair of Alicudi and Filicudi to complete the set.
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Arrival port: Porto di Levante
Journey time from Sicilian mainland: 40 minutes Distance from nearest Sicilian mainland port: 38 km |
Arrive by: ferry, hydrofoil
Arrive from: Milazzo, Messina, Naples, Reggio Calabria, Salerno Best airports: Catania Airport, Palermo Airport, Naples Airport |
