Active volcanoes, Dramatic cliffs and winding coastline
Dramatic cliffs and winding coastline, black beaches and thermal hot springs, a deep blue sea and charming port towns are all characteristic of this enchanting group of islands. Four days have been set aside to explore these islands on foot , with opportunities to relax on the beach, explore the villages and taste the great local food. Back on the mainland of Sicily you will stay in the lively coastal town of Taormina at the base of Mt Etna.
Highlights:
- The sea, the nature and the wonderful landscape of the Aeolian Islands
- History, culture and night life in Taormina
- The continuous volcanic activity of Stromboli
Day 1: Catania
Arrival at Catania. Welcome and private transfer from the hotel to Milazzo harbour (2h). Overnight stay in hotel* in Milazzo.
Day 2: Lipari (4 hours hiking, + 360m – 460 m)
Hydrofoil from Milazzo to Lipari (1 h). Check-in at the charming hotel near the small harbour of "Marina Corta". Hiking to the old roman spa of "San Calogero" with a wonderful view over Vulcano's crater. Dinner and overnight stay in hotel* in Lipari.
Day 3: Vulcano (3 hours hiking, +390 - 390 mt.)
In the morning hydrofoil to Vulcano (10 min.). Vulcano, one of the seven Aeolian Islands, famous for its black beaches and Thermal Springs. Excursion to Vulcano's crater to see the "fumaroles". Time for going to the beach and to the Thermal Springs. In the afternoon hydrofoil back to Lipari. Dinner and overnight stay at the same hotel in Lipari.
Day 4: Lipari – Stromboli (4 h hiking, + 400 – 400 mt.)
Transfer by hydrofoil from Lipari to Stromboli (1 h). Check in at the hotel and relax on Stromboli's unique black beaches. In the late afternoon trekking to the "Sciara del Fuoco" where we can have a first approach to the activity of Stromboli. Wonderful panoramic view from the craters. Overnight stay in hotel at Stromboli.
Day 5: Stromboli (6 hours hiking, + 924 – 924 mt.)
In the morning free time to visit the lovely village of "San Vincenzo" or sea bathing. In the afternoon leaving for the excursion to the active volcano with certified volcano guides. The volcano is 924 mt high and people are allowed to climb up to the top in groups of maximum 20 people, escorted by a certified volcanic guide. The volcano guides reserve the right of deciding not to climb the volcano according to safety measures that are constantly monitored, the weather and also the physical condition of the trekkers. Overnight stay in hotel.
Day 6: Taormina
In the late morning hydrofoil from Stromboli to Milazzo (2 h). Private transfer from Milazzo harbour to Taormina. Time to relax and discover this lovely town. Overnight stay in hotel.
Day 7: Taormina (walk: 4,5 km, 3 hours hiking, +300 –300 mt)
In the morning clients walk to Castelmola, a medieval village perched precariously above Taormina. The hamlet is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, with its thirteenth-century Castle dramatically situated to command the hills and valleys. In the afternoon free time for visiting historic Taormina and its Greek theatre, or bathing in the blue sea of the natural reserve of "Isola Bella". Dinner on your own and paid locally.
Day 8: Departure
Private transfer to Catania airport.
Accommodation :
- 1 night in hotel* in Milazzo
- 2 nights in hotel* in Lipari with 2 dinners included
- 2 nights in hotel in Stromboli
- 2 nights in hotel* in Taormina
Included:
- Transfer from Catania to Milazzo hotel (day 1)
- Transfer from Milazzo harbour to Taormina (day 6)
- Transfer from Taormina to Catania airport (day 8)
- Accommodation as described in the program, with breakfast
- 2 dinners at Lipari
- Volcano Guide at Stromboli
- Maps, road book and assistance in case of emergency
Not included:
- Hydrofoils at the islands: about €70 during low season and €80 in high season (june-sept)
- lunches
- dinners not included in the program
- Tourist taxes (about 5 €)
Trips Note
Destination: Sicily
Travel Style: Guided walking holiday
Interest: Sea &Coastal hiking, Winter Sun
Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
Departures: J Mar Apr May Jun Jul Sep Oct
Group size: from 4 to 15 people
Airport: Palermo