Sicily Short Break: the Aeolian Islands in June 2025

Our adventure begins in the seaside gem of Tropea in Central Calabria. We’ll depart on a 46-foot catamaran in the morning, bound for the closest of the Aeolian Islands, volcanic Stromboli. Often smoking from constant eruption, Stromboli’s volcano (see photo above) earned it the name “lighthouse of the Mediterranean” in ancient times. We’ll overnight on the boat, then continue south, exploring more of the islands before landing at Salina for two glorious nights. Our education here will be simple and genuine: think “how are capers transformed” and “how’s Malvasia dessert wine vinified“? The food at our hotel, created by Sicily’s youngest Michelin-starred chef, is quite memorable.

Sicily is like a sweater woven with multi-colored yarn, and its Aeolian Islands are no exception. In order to capture the yin-yang essence of its micro-cultures, we’ve packed a lot into five days. Certainly traveling among the Aeolians via boat is the best way to experience their beauty. Then we settle on one of the prettiest islands for two nights of contrast. And we end at a unique country paradise with another Michelin culinary experience.  Of course, this is a vacation; so we’ve included some free time each day and have purposely avoided early departures. Come discover this corner of Sicily with us, for five magical days….

*B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner provided

DAY 1: FROM CALABRIA TO SICILY

Check out of Villa Paola after breakfast (for those who were part of Adagio’s Calabria trip) and late morning embarkation on your private 46-foot luxury catamaran, with departure for Stromboli Island. The sailing time is typically 4-6 hours. NOTE: the description of Days 1 and 2is indicative only, since it’s subject to prevailing winds and weather.

Stromboli, located at the northernmost point of the Aeolian archipelago, is the above-water peak of a large underwater volcano. The island residents are clustered in two areas: the largest boasts the picturesque villages of San Vincenzo and San Bartolomeo, whose typical white houses cling to the lower crater; while tiny Ginostra village is accessible only by sea. Stromboli’s beaches, known for their black sand and cliffs that contrast with the crystal-clear sea, create landscapes of great charm with the opportunity to swim and snorkel at small beaches or explore the village of San Vincenzo on foot.

Arrival should be in time to explore the island, swim and snorkel. At sunset, you will navigate around the island and stop under the “Sciara del Fuoco” to admire the continuous eruption of the active volcano. B at hotel; L and D on board.

Accommodation for tonight: private berths with en suite bathroom on your chartered 46-foot catamaran

DAY 2: STROMBOLI – PANAREA – LIPARI – SALINA

Departure from Stromboli towards Panarea, known as “the Island of the VIPs.” It is tiny but loaded with natural charm; you’ll be captivated by the lush vegetation of bougainvillea, hibiscus, prickly pears, and capers, along with stunning beaches accessible almost exclusively by sea. Explore the Prehistoric Village, perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, and immerse yourself in the spectacular underwater landscapes while snorkeling.

After lunch on board, depart from Panarea and arrive in Lipari. The largest of the Aeolian Islands, Lipari offers a rich historical center and an archeological museum of great interest. Housed in a historic fort above town, the museum’s collection includes hundreds of ancient amphorae that serve to explain the trading role of these islands long ago. The day will finish on the island of Salina, home for the next two night. Disembark and enjoy a transfer to your hotel, a boutique family-run gem whose restaurant features chef Martina Caruso. The youngest chef to receive a Michelin star in Italy, Marisa’s also earned the Michelin Sustainable Gastronomy designation; we recommend that you book dinner in advance if you want to try Martina’s creations. B, L on board.

Accommodation for the next 2 nights: Hotel Signum 4*, Salina

DAY 3: AUTHENTIC SALINA 

Today, meet your local guide who will immerse you in the essence of Salina. After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive to the village of Pollara, made famous by the gorgeous movie The Postman (Il Postino), which was filmed there in the mid-90s. In this timeless village you’ll visit a caper farm and follow the plant to table journey of the caper bud, derived from the bush’s unopened berries. Enjoy a light lunch based on different caper recipes.

After lunch head to Santa Marina for the best “granita” of the Aeolian islands. Finish with a wonderful vineyard tasting of Malvasia “vera”. This local wine is still produced using the traditional techniques of sun-drying the grapes on woven cane mats.

Tonight, we will be happy to suggest our favorite restaurants and trattorias in Salina.

DAY 4:  TO MAINLAND SICILY

Bidding farewell to your hosts this morning, head to the mainland via a 2-hour ferry ride to Milazzo harbor. There you’ll meet your driver for a private transfer (about 90 minutes) to Zash Country Boutique Hotel, a manor house set in a huge orange grove at the feet of Mt Etna, Sicily’s renowned volcano. The New York Times named Zash as a choice hotel to use when visiting Sicily, “among the 52 places to go in the world”.

We suggest spending a leisurely afternoon here. Make the most of the Spa (must reserve treatments ahead),  and tonight enjoy dinner in their cozy Michelin-starred restaurant, tucked in the stone vats exactly where the wine was once fermented. B, 5 course Michelin-starred D with pairing of local wines

Accommodation for tonight: Zash Country Boutique Hotel & Spa 4*

DAY 5: TO CATANIA AIRPORT OR ONWARD TRAVELS WITHIN SICILY

Transfer to Catania’s Fontanarossa airport and departure (please schedule flights AFTER 10am) or contact us if you’d like to explore further the main island of Sicily. Arrivederci! B

This short break tour offers the perfect start for a more in-depth exploration of Sicily. Contact us to help you plan your Sicilian adventure. Photo above highlights the Baroque jewel, Ragusa Ibla.