Islands of Sicily

There are some archipelagoes and islands near Sicily. They are very popular among the tourists especially among those who are travelling by yacht. On Sicily you can be offered different tours and trips to the Eolia Archipelago, to Ustica Island, to Pantelleria Island, to the Egadi Archipelago and the Pelagia Archipelago.

The Eolia Archipelago is situated in the Tyrrhenian Sea at the northern sea coast of Sicily. It belongs to the Messina province. The archipelago consists of three islands: Stromboli, Volcano and Lipari. Sometimes the Eolia Archipelago is called the Lipary Islands. These small islands appeared as a result of volcanic activity and they are considered to be unique nature formations. Even now the eruptions happen there sometimes. Though they are not so great as Etna’s but it is a great entertainment for the tourists. The Eolia Archipelago is under the protection of the UNESCO and it is considered to be the part of the world heritage. You may attend the islands and have a rest at their beaches with black sand or admire the geysers and picturesque coastal rocks, called faraglioni, from the board of the yacht. But it is not free of charge. The most comfortable way to the islands is from the Messina port.

Ustica is just near Palermo. It is not a big island, only 9 km in width. There are not any special sights or picturesque scenery there but there is one of the best Italian diving centers there. There are dozens of diving schools in Ustica. Numerous rocks and reefs give a good opportunity to the divers to admire and enjoy the fantastic underwater landscape. You can ferry to Ustica Island from Palermo.

The Island of Pantelleria is situated at the south-west coast of Sicily near Trapani. Enjoying its beaches is a very popular way of having a rest. Pantelleria is the peak of an extinct volcano. Thanks to its fertile soil the tourists may have fresh fruit and vegetables every day. Local wine is also very popular, especially sweet muscat Passito di Pantelleria. You can fly to Pantelleria by plane from Palermo or ferry from Trapani.

The Pelagia Archipelago consists of three islands: Lampedusa, Linosa and Lampione. There are many places of interest of the time of the dominion of Ancient Rome and Greece .The landscape of the islands is also amazing. It is one of the best places to have a rest on Sicily. Rabbit Beach is the most famous beach there and it is one of the best in the world. It is situated on Lampedusa.

The islands of the Egadi Archipelago are not so popular as the neighbouring Pantelleria. The most well-known islands are Favingana, Levanzo, Marettimo. Here you can have a rest far of the noisy civilization and enjoy the grottoes and the Mediterranean scenery. The Egadi Islands are especially popular among the yachtsmen all over the world.