Sailing in the Aeolian Islands

Set sail from Portorosa marina, located in eastern Sicily. The sea here was awarded a Blue Flag by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), for meeting high standards for water quality and services. Head in the direction of Vulcano, the most southern of the Aeolian Islands. Explore the Horse Grotto by boat, a rocky nook to the west of the island, resembling a Greek theatre. On the island, discover active volcanoes, mud baths and hot water beaches. Hike to the crater of Fossa ll and admire the sulphur deposits that colour the ground bright yellow.

Depart Vulcano and head towards Filicudi, a naturally beautiful island off the northeast coast of Sicily. Explore the islands beautiful landscape on a hiking trail, leading to the abandoned village of Zucco Grande and to Fossa Felci, a mountain in the centre of the island. On the north-western coast, discover the rock obelisk of Scoglio della Canna (Cane Reef). Explore Capo Graziano and its prehistoric village, dating back to 1800 BC. If you are looking to relax, sunbathe on Solarium Lidalina beach.

Continue your sailing holiday to Alicudi, located in the bluest sea of the peninsula. The island is known as the island of a thousand steps. Explore pebbled and rocky beaches, such as Spiaggia Bazzina. Visit the Rock of the Galera in the west of the island, resembling the head of a dragon. Take a hiking trail from the port to Filo dell'Arpa, a mountain 675m above sea-level. At the summit, enjoy a beautiful panoramic view overlooking the north-west coast of the island. Dine at the only restaurant on the island, Bar L'Airone, which offers typical Aeolian cuisine.

Hoist your sails for Salina, the greenest island of the Aeolian archipelago. It is most renowned for the natural reserve that occupies half of its area. Visit one of the islands many vineyards. Explore the town of Santa Marina, with many shops and restuarants, as well as a Museum of Wine. See the two inactive volcanoes of the island; Fossa delle Felci and Monte dei Porri. In the middle of both lies the Valldichiesa Valley. Relax at Pollara Bay, where the movie Il Postino: The Postman and Pablo Neruda was filmed.

On day 5 of your yacht charter holiday, sail to the volcanic island of Stromboli. Admire the colossal rock of Strombolicchio, only reachable by boat. Will you spot the heart-shaped rock on the cliff facing south? Stop for a swim in the cobalt-coloured waters. Sail at sunset to the west side of Stromboli island to catch a glimpse of a volcanic eruption. We recommend checking sailing distance protocols before adventuring to this area.

Continue sailing to Lipari, the largest of the Aeolian islands. Explore the two main villages of the island, Marina Lunga and Marina Corta, brimming with shops, restaurants and promenades. The island is full of architectural beauties and churches. Visit Cattedrale di San Bartolomeo, a church perched at one of the highest points of the island. Hike to the nearby Belvedere di Quattrocchi, the best viewpoint of the island to admire the crystal clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Aeolian islands.

On the last day of your sailing holiday, make your return journey to the picturesque Portorosa. Don't forget to tidy the boat before you complete final check out! Spend the final day of your holiday discovering the rich historical and artistic heritage of the town.