Vulcano

Elevated at 391 meters, the Gran Catere of Fossa di Vulcano inspires you to climb the mountain, and for a nominal fee, good walking shoes and sunscreen, this is possible! Ascending a well-marked Via Provinciale, prepare to take a gravel track for the last stretch towards this Volcano, dormant since 1890. Knowing that it takes about an hour of strenuous climbing in black sandy soil with blowing winds and dust, climbers welcome a refershing mid-way pit stop at a Café to enjoy drinks and ice cream.

An observation platform at this level allows one to view inside the crater! For an unusual experience, descend 50 meters along a path to the actual floor of the crater! Reaching the top opens up a breathtaking full 360° view over the crater, and the entire Aeolian Archipelago.

Caution: Beware of the vents around it for the gases are extremely hot.

Vulcano’s beaches abound, from the frequented to the more remote. Nestled near the island’s small capital of Porto Levante lies La Spiaggia Sabbia Nera Beach, where the water is calm and ideal for swimming. Relax or stroll the long stretch of volcanic sand. Just across the island of Vulcano on the south coast, walk downhill to the black, sandy Spiaggia dell’Asina Beach, where swimming is so inviting. Sun lovers seeking tranquillity may adventurously head out to the black, sandy Spiaggia Cannitello Beach will enjoy its lush, semi-tropical vegetation. There is a simple café and parasols, and sun decks are available for rental.

As you stroll towards Lungomare from Porto di Levante, the mud baths at Laghetto di Fanghi await you. These therapeutic pools lie off of a lofty vertical Faraglione stone jutting towards the sky. And in the valley, dark rocks shaped by wind over centuries into interesting shapes, aptly named Valley of Monsters, add to the fascination of the geological marvel.

Strong volcanic activity on Vulcano Island and deep under the sea is the natural wonder thought to possess healing and soothing qualities for the skin. To view this activity, there are areas near the monolithic rocks where bubbles spewing up from the sea floor create an atmosphere similar to lounging in a luxurious spa … as good for the spirit as for the body. A modest 1.5 euro access fee and change for the showers will contribute to your total experience.

The Mud Baths: one of the most popular reasons that attract visitors to Vulcano is none other than the opportunity to bathe in Laghetto di Fanghi, a large pool of warm, muddy, sulphurous water located close to the dock, and the focus of your Guided Wellness Trip. Swim daily in the pool (once or twice as advised) then cover your face and body with the mud(only as directed), let it dry to form a mask, then rinse it off. Next to the mud baths, hot springs make the sea warm and bubbly, like a natural Jacuzzi. Very hot vents of air also spring up through the rocks around the pool, so take care where you place your feet!

Please be aware that the smell of sulphur, a direct characteristic of a trip Vulcano, may be overpowering at times, however this smell is absolutely safe for humans and absolutely non toxic. It’s best not to wear clothes or swimming attire that you want to keep as the smell may linger and the mud could stain.

There are many great little souvenir shops and restaurants in Porto Ponente and in neighbouring villages.

To fully enjoy the natural beauty of the island of Vulcano, you may wish to rent a car or a scooter. For these services, please contact us.