Map of the Alcantara Gorges

The Alcantara gorges are a beautiful natural site located near Francavilla di Sicilia (ME) in the Alcantara Valley.
It is a veritable canyon excavated in an ancient lava flow with deep gorges – up to 25 meters deep and up to 5 meters wide – in which flows the river Alcantara.
There are several theories about the formation of these canyons: some argue that was the power of water that carved the canyon, but the best hypothesis argues that the ancient lava flow was split in two after a strong earthquake motion and only after this event the water of the river began to flow in the Alcantara Gorges.
The river – whose name derives from the Arabic “Al Qantarah” that means “bridge” – rises at 1250 meters on Nebrodi mounts and ends, after about 50 km, at Cape Schisò.

The whole area is now under the control of the “Alcantara River Park Authority” to preserve the pristine landscape and protect the important and rare plant and animal species living there.

The Alcantara gorges represent an indispensable destination for nature lovers and walk along the gorges is an unforgettable experience.
This is possible only when water is low and only in summer because of the cold temperature of the river. We reccomend you to rent boots to avoid getting wet.
In the other periods of the year, you can only reach the entrance of the gorges by the stairs or you can take the elevator that starts from the parking car.

Visiting the gorges, you will be marvelled from the contrasts of light, from its clear water, from waterfalls and calm lakes, from caves and from black basaltic rocks with strange shapes.

Useful information

To reach the Alcantara Gorges, you will take the exit “Taormina-Giardini Naxos” of the highway A18 Messina-Catania and continue on State 185 street to Francavilla di Sicilia for about 13 km.
When you will arrive to destination, you will see a large parking where you can leave your car, a restaurant, bars and special places to do camping.
For those arriving from the north of Sicily, take the highway Messina-Palermo, exit at “Falcone” and then follow for Francavilla di Sicilia, or – if you wish to delve in the Regional Park of Nebrodi – exit at S. Agata di Militello and continue towards of San Fratello, Cesarò, Randazzo, Castiglione di Sicilia and Francavilla di Sicilia.

For further information, visiting the site of the “Alcantara River Park“.

Map of Erice

Erice is a beautiful village nested on Mount San Giuliano at about 750 meters above sea level and it has become one of the main tourist destinations of Sicily.
Erice is located in a spectacular position, near some of the most beautiful Sicilian places like San Vito lo Capo, Segesta, Trapani, Palermo and offers visitors the unique views over much of the northwest coast of Sicily.
The views of the city of Trapani and its salt flats, of Mount Cofano and of the archipelago of Egadi are unforgettable.
It appears like an ancient medieval village with narrow cobbled streets that climb the mountain and with typical homes, courtyards, shops, excellent bakeries, restaurants, churches and monuments.

Erice has a long history: it was inhabited by the Elimi, who built the walls and the temple dedicated to Venus Ericina -  goddess of love and fertility. The city was then under the dominion of the Carthaginians and after the battle of Egadi – 241 BC – it was conquered by the Romans. After a period of decline it was in the hands of the Arabs and later of the Normans who built the famous castle on the ruins of the Temple of Venus. During the medieval period, churches and monasteries were built and since then the village remained as can be seen now and was built only some baroque palace.

In 1963 – with the initiative of Professor Zichichi -  the Centre for Scientific Culture “Ettore Majorana” was founded in Erice that is an important pole in the field of international scientific research. The Centre promotes interesting events, conferences and lectures on science, which annually attract many experts. That’s because Erice is also known as the “city of science.”

Among the many cultural events we highlight the Medieval and Renaissance Music Week which takes place every year in late summer.

Getting there

To reach Erice we recommend you to use the car driving along the highway A29 Palermo – Mazara towards Trapani and follow the signs. For more information please visit Google Maps.

For those coming from farther away, the nearest airports are Trapani (13 km) and Palermo (just over 100 km) and the most served port is the port of Palermo. From here we recommend you to rent a car to arrive easier to Erice and especially to turn freely and enjoy all the sights that are in its nearby.

Alternatively, if you arrive in Palermo and you not want to rent a car, you can reach Trapani by train, by taxi or by bus (eg Bus  Segesta offers this service) and from there reach Erice or by bus (AST) or by cable car – that is in operation since July 2005 and in about 10 minutes takes you to the town.

When to go there

There is no better time to visit Erice seen that in any season this beautiful medieval town gives the best.
Given the altitude, in winter the temperatures drop well below zero, the town is surrounded by a charming fog and you have the feeling that time has stopped.
In spring and in summer you better enjoy the wonderful views, the temperatures are pleasant, but we reccomend you to bring a sweater because the air remains cool.

Must see

The medieval village of Erice is a triangular terrace overlooking the sea and strolling along its narrow streets you can see:

• Cyclopean Walls: they running along the northeastern side of the village for 700 meters and are interrupted by towers and Spada Door, Carmine Door and Trapani Door. The bottom of the walls dates back to Phoenician times, while the upper to the Norman period.

• Castle of Venus and the Temple of Venus Ericina: the castle was built by the Normans using the remains of the Temple of Venus Ericina. The tower represent the access to the complex that was in the past a guard place and a prison. Inside the castle you can admire a sacred well, the remains of the Temple of Venus Ericina, those of a Roman termal bath and of a Punic house.

• Balio Towers: they are a part of the system of fortifications of the castle and in the past were the home of the Norman governor.

• Balio Gardens: they are situated in front of the castle and from here you can enjoy a spectacular view of the sea, of the salt pans of Trapani, on Egadi and on much of the northwest coast of Sicily.

• Pepoli Tower: it is situated on a platform overlooking the pine forest and it was born as a hunting lodge.

• Corso Vittorio Emanuele: it was once called “royal road”, is the city’s main axis along which there are many excellent shops and bakeries. It begins at Trapani Door and ends at Umberto I square.

• General Salerno Street: it links Corso Vittorio Emanuele with the castle.

• Cordici Museum: it is located in Umberto I square in the town hall and houses important archaeological finds of the necropolis, coins, pottery, vestments and sculptures of past centuries. In particular you can see the splendid head of Aphrodite dating from the fifth century BC and The Annunciation of Antonio Gagini.

• Spanish Quarter: here there is a construction that was begun in the seventeenth century but it was never completed, which boasts a beautiful view of Mount Cofano, of the Gulf and of the tuna trap of Bonagia.

At Erice you can admire many beautiful churches:

• Mother Church: it was built in 1314 and is dedicated to the Virgin. The entrance is facing the walls and is characterized by severe medieval lines while the interior has been remodeled several times. In front of the facade there is the bell tower, built in 1312 as a watchtower.

• Church of St. Orsula: dating back to 1413, at its inside you can see the groups of the eighteenth century of the mysteries of the Good Friday procession.

• St. Anthony Abate Church

• Church of St. Salvatore

• Church of St. Peter: it was built in the fourteenth century and was then rebuilt in 1745 with a Baroque portal. Nearby there is the Monastery of Poor Clares that is now one of the seats of Ettore Majorana Centre for Scientific Culture.

• St. Martin’s Church: it is in Norman style but with a Baroque portal, at its inside there is a wooden choir of the seventeenth century.

• Church of St. Giuliano: it was built by the Normans in 1080 and today houses a cultural and artistic center.

• Church of St. John the Baptist: it is one of the ancient churches of Erice and was restored and modified many times. It contains interesting works such as the statue of St. John the Baptist of Antonio Gagini and frescoes from the former church of Santa Maria Maddalena of the fourteenth century.

Moreover, from Erice you can also easily reach other major tourist attractions of northwest Sicily as:

*  San Vito lo Capo
* Segesta
* Trapani
* Palermo
* Isole Egadi
* Mozia

Where to stay

Erice offers several lodging options, from cheap hostels to luxury hotels.
An alternative that you will find in Erice is to stay in the convents and monasteries offering a good service at affordable prices.

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Restaurants/Typical cuisine

Erice is famous for its typical pastries: cakes with almonds and marzipan, Genoa pastries with cream (fried sweets flavored with Marsala wine), Mustaccioli (old biscuits made in cloistered convents), Buccellati (cakes filled with figs, almonds, walnuts , raisins), chocolate or orange balls and many other delicacies.

Given the proximity to the sea and Trapani, at Erice you can eat excellent fish, couscous and many of the typical Sicilian food.

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Shopping

Walking through the narrow streets of Erice, you’ll see many shops selling typical handicrafts, hand-painted ceramics and colorful hand-woven rugs called “Trappite”. You’ll also find many famous pastry shops where buy delicious sweets of Erice.

Links

For more information please visit the website of the Town of Erice.

Map of San Vito Lo Capo

San Vito lo Capo is a charming seaside village located on the northwest coast of Sicily, near Trapani. His long and beautiful bay stretches from Cape San Vito and Cape Solanto and it is located about 39 km from Trapani and about 100 km from Palermo. It is a typical lively Mediterranean town with white houses, bougainvillea and jasmine that spread intoxicating scents, white beach and a turquoise sea with thousand shades.

San Vito lo Capo has developed at the end of the eighteenth century with the construction of the first houses near a chapel dedicated to St. Vito Martire. Its history is though much older as evidenced by the finds of the Paleolithic, Mesolithic and Neolithic and the presence – however not found and still wrapped in mystery – of the ancient township of Conturrana.

The chapel dedicated to St. Vito was initially built around the year 300 and was later the subject of many changes and restructuring to become the sanctuary we can see now. According to the legend, Vito was a young nobleman of Mazara del Vallo who, converted to Christianity, had to abandon his hometown to escape the persecution of Diocletian. He escaped with his nurse Crescentia and his tutor Modesto by sea but during a storm they found shelter near the village of Conturrana, that was located in the territory of the actual San Vito lo Capo. Here Vito tried to spread Christianity and performed numerous miracles, but the locals not heard him and drove him from the country. God punished then this unfaithful people destroying the city. The legend says that Crescenza, when she stopped to see the collapse of the village, became a stone and in that point now stands the chapel dedicated to her. The sanctuary and the chapel took the reputation of being miraculous and magical and have attracted many pilgrims in the past centuries.

Besides the center, part of the territory of San Vito Lo Capo are also the fraction of Macari and that of Castelluzzo. The first is known as a charming location on the Gulf, with a view of the Mount Cofano and the cliffs of Cala Mancina, while Castelluzzo is located between Ponte del Biro and the Nature Reserve of Mount Cofano and it is famous for the presence of extended cultivation of olives and for its atmosphere of tranquility and relaxation.

San Vito lo Capo is not just sand and sea: it is located in a strategic position for visiting all the beauties that offers western Sicily and it is therefore a place that meets the needs of all travelers.

Getting there

To reach San Vito lo Capo we recommend you to use the car travelling along the highway A29 Palermo-Mazara and taking the exit “Castellammare del Golfo”. From there you can follow road signs and in about an hour you’ll arrive at your destination.

For those coming from farther away, the nearest airports are Trapani (about 40 km) and Palermo (about 100 km) while the most served port is the port of Palermo. From here we recommend you to rent a car to arrive more easily at San Vito and especially to turn freely and enjoy all the beauties located in its vicinity. Alternatively you can take a taxi or use the services of different bus companies that connect frequently and efficiently Palermo and Trapani to San Vito lo Capo.

You can also take the train that arrives at Castellammare del Golfo and from here use bus services, taxi or rent a car to get to the final destination.

When to go there

San Vito lo Capo is primarily a seaside resort with a Mediterranean climate and so the best time to stay there and to do a “beach life” is from May to October, when air and water temperatures are favorable and rainfall are relatively low.

In the middle months of summer (June, July and August) there are also very high temperatures and the beaches are invaded by many tourists. In the remaining months the climate is mild and pleasant and the country is less affected by mass tourism.

Therefore May and September are the ideal months for those seeking a quiet stay in San Vito and full of relaxation, while for those who want to pass busiest holiday we reccomend June, July and August.

Must see

Beach and sea

The turquoise blue sea, clear and clean and the white beach are undoubtedly the highlight of San Vito lo Capo. The seabed that slopes gently and the water devoid of dangerous currents makes the sea of San Vito also suitable for children or for those who are not great swimmers. The beach is wide and excellent services are made available to tourists without affecting the original beauty of the bay.

For fans, San Vito offers beautiful diving spot and the possibility of fishing in different ways, from “Bolentino” to apnea fishing.

City and monuments

• Center of San Vito lo Capo: it is distributed along Savoia street – a pedestrian street full of shops, bars and restaurants that arrives on the seafront. Along this course, in summer, numerous events are organized to entertain tourists.

• Sanctuary: in Arab-Norman style, it is located in the pedestrian streets of the city and worth visiting.

• Chapel of St. Crescentia: it has a particular form and it was built in the sixteenth century.

• Sea Museum: it is located in Savoia street n. 57 and it retains some important archaeological remains that were found in the rich depths of San Vito. A wreck of an Arab-Norman ship dated around the year 800 was found near the lighthouse.

• Palace La Porta: it is located in Savoia street and it is a beautiful nineteenth century palace that is the seat of the current city hall.

• The lighthouse: it is a symbol of San Vito, it was built in the middle of nineteenth century during the Bourbon Kingdom. Its tower is 40 meters high and at night its light arrives up to 20 nautical miles.

• The Torrazzo: it is a tower that was probably build by Arab and it is located near the port of San Vito.

• Macari and Castelluzzo: these are the two localities that are part of the municipality of San Vito Lo Capo and they worth a visit for their charming location which offer breathtaking views and for their peace of mind.

• Cous Cous Fest: it is an international, gastronomic and cultural festival held every year in September and sees the couscous as the protagonist.

Excursions

• Zingaro reserve: it was established in 1981 and it is an area of approximately 1,700 hectares with a coastline of about 8 km that stretches from San Vito lo Capo to Scopello. The Zingaro is one of the most pristine and beautiful location of all Sicily. Here are several routes to do only on foot, discovering the typical flora and fauna of the Mediterranean, with beautiful coves, sheer cliffs and caves, including the Uzzo cave where were found the remains of prehistoric settlements. As a reserve, it is essential to observe the full respect for the environment, birds and other animals and even plants that live here. A tip: at the inside of the reserve there are equipped areas but there aren’t bars or restaurants and therefore it is essential to bring a packed lunch and, especially in summer, a good supply of water.

• Nature Reserve of Mount Cofano: it was established recently and looks like a huge amount limestone with steep cliffs that plunge into the beautiful turquoise waters of the bay of San Vito. It is possible to hike up to even the top of the mountain, which boasts a wonderful view. You can see the Tower of St John, the Tower of Tuna and admire the many species of birds that inhabit the reserve, including peregrine falcons, buzzards and kestrels. On Mount Cofano there are also quarries where the pearl marble of Sicily is extracted and several caves including the Cave Mangiapane, located at Scurati district, that takes the name of the family who lived here from ‘800 until the end of World War II. In this large cave were built small houses that were then abandoned by the shepherds and are now used by the cultural association “Living Nativity” of Custonaci which each year prepares in this charming place a renowned Living Nativity.

• Tonnara del Secco: at about 3 km from San Vito there is this old tuna trap, whose nets were lowered especially in spring when many fishes swam here for their reproduction. At its side the remains of ancient fish processing plants can be seen. Now the tuna trap is out of use, but remains a very distinctive and fascinating place to visit.

• Castellammare del Golfo: it is a nice town and beach resort. It was once an important commercial and fishing center. Here it’s possible to admire the medieval Aragonese castle – located in Garibaldi street – and the Mother Church. From Scopello to  Castellammare del Golfo the coastal road offers beautiful views.

• Scopello: a small fishing village dominated by the seventeenth rural farm overlooking the main square.

Here we list some of the most beautiful places near San Vito lo Capo that worth a visit:

* Erice
* Segesta
* Trapani
* Palermo
* Egadi
* Mozia

Where to stay

San Vito lo Capo in recent years has become a popular destination and the prices of accomodations are therefore increased. Although it is possible to find solutions for all budgets and you can save a lot of money by booking in advance and during less popular periods.

You’ll find high-level hotels and residences with private beaches but also simple but nice pensions, rooms for rent, farmhouses and even campings.

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Restaurants/Typical cuisine

At San Vito lo Capo you’ll find the flavors, the colors and the dishes of Sicilian tradition including of course the “Arancine di riso” – that are rice balls – “Caponata” of eggplant, the Sicilian “Cannoli” – pastries filled with ricotta cream, bits of chocolate and candied – and the Sicilian “Cassata” – a sweet made of a base of sponge cake filled with ricotta cream, covered in icing and marzipan and decorated with candied. You should even taste ice cream, sorbets and granita with brioche that you will find in lots of tastes in the many bars located in the pedestrian zone and along the beach.

The local specialty is the cous cous: of Arab origin, then spread to San Vito during his domination by the Arab people and it is a dish made with semolina balls that are handmade and baked in a special pot and served with a rich and tasty fish soup which is prepared mainly with rockfish, vogues, white bream, grouper and croaker. The cous cous is so joined the culture of San Vito lo Capo which is organized every year in September the Cous Cous Fest – an international event that sees this important plate as the protagonist.

You can also taste typical “Busiate with Pesto from Trapani” – a format similar to Bucatini pasta with tomato sauce, garlic, basil, almonds and pecorino cheese and the “bread Cunzato” that is seasoned with extra virgin olive oil, salt, oregano, anchovies, black olives and red pepper. “Bread and Panelle” is a specialty of Palermo that you will also find at San Vito and it is a great dish you can eat on the beach since it is a simple bun stuffed with seasoned flour and fried chickpeas.

The main element of the typical cuisine of San Vito lo Capo is the fish that we find in many pasta dishes such as pasta with cuttlefish, spaghetti with sea urchins, pasta with lobster, pasta with sardines, “marinara” rice, and obviously in many second dishes.

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Shopping

Strolling along the promenade of the beautiful seaside village, you’ll see many fine stores and shops selling various local products and souvenirs of San Vito and Sicily in general, as Sicilian ceramics, cakes and local delicacies.

Links

For more information see the website of the town of San Vito lo Capo.

General Information/Map

Map of Alassio

Alassio is a charming city and a famous seaside resort located on the west coast of Liguria – that is a northern region of Italy -, between Cape Mele and Cape Santa Croce. The legend says that the name “Alassio” derives from Adelasia who was the daughter of Emperor Otto I who fled with the squire Aleramo and established their home near Mount Tirasso. Later this place was called Alaxia in memory of the princess, and then became Alassio.

It’s always been the favorite holiday for the inhabitants of Lombardia and Piemonte – two northern regions of Italy – in fact it is only 245 km from Milan (the main city of Lombardia) and 195 km from Turin (the main city of Piemonte).

Towards the end of ‘800 and the beginning of last century many foreign tourists – mostly British – have bought and built several villas and have chosen Alassio as a seaside resort. This explains the presence of Nouveau buildings and the names of some streets (eg Hanbury Avenue, that was the name of a family that has resided for years in this city and contributed to its economic development).

Alassio is inhabited by about 11,000 people and attracts every year many tourists also coming from northern Europe.

Getting there

Alassio is easily reached by car taking the highway A10 Genoa – Ventimiglia. We recommend going out to Albenga and from there follow the signs that lead you to the destination in ten minutes.

Other very comfortable means of transport is train; the train station is located in the center of Alassio and there is an efficient bus and taxi service, which connects it with all the areas of the city.

For who comes from further away it’s possible to take the plane and arrive at the nearby airports of Genoa and Nice (both at about 100 km from Alassio) and from there take another public transport or rent a car.

There are also bus services that link the main cities of Lombardy and Piemonte to Alassio.

It’s very important to know that as in all countries resort on the Ligurian coast, it is quite difficult to find a free parking for your car: therefore we recommend you to arrive early in the morning.

When to go there

Alassio is located in a privileged location overlooking the sea and surrounded by rolling hills that protect it from cold winds from the north.

This explains its Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot and windy summers and not very cold winters.

The best time to stay here is usually from March to October and the bathing season begins in May and ends in late September.

Must see

Beach and Sea

Strength of Alassio is undoubtedly its beautiful long white sandy beach that stretches for about 4 km between Cape Mele and Cape Santa Croce. Here the sea bottom is sandy, degrades very slowly and the water is free of currents: this explains why Alassio is often chosen by families with children as a holiday resort.  Along the beach there are numerous beach resorts and a few free beaches.

The sea of Alassio also offers beautiful divings. After moving to the tourist port of Alassio towards Albenga – precisely at Murena Cape -  you can dive and observe a rich flora and fauna.

Near the island of Gallinara – that is located off the coast of Albenga – there is an ancient relic – the Umberto I – while in front of Albenga a merchant ship full of Roman amphorae was found.  But it is not possible to dive near these wrecks because it is a protected area and so they can be observed only from the surface.

The wall of Alassio

The wall of Alassio – located in Dante street – is a wall that defines the public gardens that in the 50s the citizens began to decorate with colored tiles with the signature of celebrities.

Precisely in 1951 Hemingway stayed in Alassio and the painter of this seaside city – Mario Berrino – had the idea to place a tile on the wall with the signature of the famous American writer.

After Hemingway left their autograph many other famous personalities like the italians Quartetto Cetra, Cosimo di Ceglie, Pippo Baudo, Loredana Bertè, Fausto Coppi, Gino Bartali and Fabrizio De Andrè (just to name a few).

The wall is also known to be a venue for lovers on Valentine’s Day: there is a statue of Eros Pellini representing two lovers and a mailbox where the most beautiful love letters where delivered.

The wall of Alassio has become known thanks to the beauty contest “Miss Muretto” which takes place every year and has seen winners also women who became famous as Simona Ventura – a known Italian TV presenter.

“Budello”

The “Budello” of Alassio is a long pedestrian narrow street that reaches the walk Ciccione.

It is the main meeting point of Alassio and along this alley there are many shops and places to rendezvous and spend evenings.

Monuments

Among the Alassio monuments we recommend to visit:

• Vegliasco Tower: it is situated in a dominant position on the Gulf of Alassio. It has a very ancient origins and it is one of the most beautiful towers in the area.

• Torrione (The Tower): it is a watch tower which is located in Borgo Coscia (a fraction of Alassio) in front of the sea. It was built in the sixteenth century by the Genoese.

• Alassio British Library: it was built in the early ‘900 in Liberty style.

• Alassio Train Station: it is an Art Nouveau style building and it was built in the early of ‘900 on a project of the engineer Manfredini.

• Sanctuary of the Madonna della Guardia: it is located on Mount Tirasso, was built in 1200 over the remnants of a medieval castle.

• Church of Santa Croce: it is in Romanesque style and was built by Benedictine monks of the island Gallinara in the eleventh century. From the nearby lookout you can enjoy unbeatable views of the Gulf of Alassio and its hills.

• Chapel in memory of the dead of the sea: it is located near the port Luca Ferrari. It was built on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea and it was inaugurated in 1929.

• Collegiate Parish of St. Ambrose: it is located in Alassio in St. Ambrose square and it was built in the second half of 1400.

• Church of St. Anna to the mountains: is located in Julia Augusta street, was built in 940 at the behest of the Benedictine monks of the Gallinara and it was the first parish of Alassio.

Where to stay

Alassio offers to tourists many accommodations: hotels, residences, bed and breakfast, holiday rentals and campings.

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Restaurants/Typical cuisine

The culinary tradition of Alassio is typically Mediterranean and combines the tastes of the sea and the land. The dishes are rich in fish, vegetables, spices and the main ingredient of each preparation is olive oil, which is also found in the famous Ligurian pesto.

You can taste the excellent focaccia, “farinata” (made with chickpea flour) and Pasqualina cake. In addition you can also find the “Kiss of Alassio”, chocolate candies, and ” Biscette of Solva”, pancakes with fennel seeds typical of the village of Solva.

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Shopping

The “Budello” of Alassio is the place where to go shopping. Here there are jewelers, shops designer labels, clothing, souvenirs and even several shops that sell local gastronomic specialties.

Links

For more information visit the web site of the town of Alassio.

Map of Lindau (Bodensee)

General Information/Map

Lindau is a typical town in Bavaria, and thanks to its superb location it is one of the most visited of all Germany. It is indeed located on the right bank of Lake Constance (Bodensee), it is close to the border with Austria and Switzerland and is surrounded by mountains (Pfänder).

Its medieval old town is situated on an island on the Lake Constance and it is connected to the mainland by a rail and road bridge.

In the past it was one of the most important ports of Bavaria and the statue of the lion – that is symbol of strength – and the Bavarian Mangturm – that is an ancient lighthouse -  testify to its rich history.

Lindau became famous thanks to the numerous conferences that are held in the city including those held every year by the winners of the Nobel Prize.

Getting there

To reach Lindau you can use a plane or train or car.

The nearest airport is Friedrichshafen (only 22 km from Lindau) or you can arrive to the Altenrhein Regional Airport in Switzerland (approx. 30 km), or Memmingen (approximately 70 km), or Monaco (approximately 180 km), or Stuttgart (200 km) or Zurich (130 km).

By train there are direct connections from Dortmund, Karlsruhe, Ulm, Monaco, Basel and Zurich.

If you prefer use the car to get to Lindau you can see GoogleMaps.

To get around the city we suggest you to rent bicycles or to use the buses that every half an hour linking all parts of the city.

When to go there

There is no better time to be recommended to visit Lindau; to choose when to go there, you should consider what the city offers during the different periods of the year.

If you are looking for sunshine and pleasant temperatures, spring and summer are to be preferred, but if you want to find peace, relaxation and calm we recommend the autumn. For those who want to enjoy the charm of Lindau wrapped in a biting cold and surrounded by snow-capped mountains, winter is obviously the best time.

Must see

The main street of the historic center is the Maximilianstrasse, along which there are many shops and homes of the XVI century with colorful colors. Heart of the city is the Marktplatz, where there is the fountain of Neptune (Neptunbrunnen) built in 1840.

One of the symbol of Lindau is its port: it was completed in 1856 and it was known for the presence of a lighthouse and a monument that is representing a lion facing the lake. The statue of the lion is 6 meters high and was carved by the sculptor Johann von Halbing while the lighthouse stands 33 meters tall and its lights create a very special and fascinating atmosphere.

Among the many monuments of Lindau we reccomend you to see:

• Pulverturm: it was built in 1508 in the western tip of the island and in the past it was an arms depot. But when even the back of the island with vineyards and fields has been strengthened, the tower was integrated in the city’s defensive walls.

• Römerschanze (Roman fort): it was a small and fortified island useful to defend the port and then it was connected to the island city in the nineteenth century. It was so named after the discovery of some Roman coins.

• Museum of Lindau: it is located in the center’s main square – the Marktplatz – in the “Haus zum Cavazzen”. This house built in baroque style, was rebuilt by Grubermann after a fire occurred about in 1729 and it was defined by the famous art historian Dehio “the finest residence in the Lake of Constance”. It houses the Museum of Lindau from 1929 and comprises furniture, paintings, sculptures, silver, glass and pottery from different historical periods. There are also old toys and the famous collection of ancient musical instruments.

• Diebsturm: it is also called Malefizturm or Stadtknechtsturm. It was built around 1370, it was the highest west point of the city walls and it also had the role of a prison.

• Peterskirche: dates from 1000 and it is the oldest church in the city. At its inside there is the cycle of paintings devoted to the “Passion of Christ “created by Hans Holbein the Elder in the late of the fifteenth century.

• Mangturm: old lighthouse that was built in the thirteenth century and measures 37 meters.

• Fountain of Lindavia (Die Lindavista-Brunnen): it was created in 1884 by the sculptor Wilhelm Rümann of Monaco. The bronze figures positioned between the four marble tanks symbolize the activities practiced in Lindau that were viticulture, gardening, fishing, agriculture and navigation. On the pedestal stands Lindavia – the female incarnation of the city – with a crown on the head and the helm of the city in hand.

• Alte Rathaus: the old town hall which was erected between 1422 and 1436 in Gothic style. It was modified in the sixteenth century and it assumed the typical characteristics of the Renaissance. It lies along Maximilianstraße next to the new city hall (Neues Rathhaus) in baroque style, built between 1706 and 1717.

• Old cemetery of Lindau: it represents an important cultural monument of the history of Lindau. It is located in Aeschach district and it was transformed into a park in 1940.

Among the other monuments of Lindau we remind you the Unserer Lieben Frau Catholic Church dedicated to Our Lady and the St. Stephen’s Evangelical Church that are located in the Marktplatz.

Among the many excursions that can be carried out starting from Lindau we indicate:

• the climbing with cableway on the mountains (Pfänder) that surround the city. From the top you can enjoy a wonderful view over Lake Constance, on Austria and Switzerland;

• boat trip to discover the beautiful views that offer this land (for example the excursion to the beautiful island of Mainau);

• visit to the Affenberg park where you can see several examples of monkeys;

• excursion to the Reno falls.

Along Lake Constance there are also nice trails in the nature to do with the bike. In winter you can ski on the mountains that surround the city while in summer you can practice water sports.

Where to stay

Lindau and its surroundings offer many types of accommodation to suit all budgets.

Accomodation search

Restaurants/Typical cuisine

In the cuisine of Lindau the main dish is definitely the pig that is accompanied by potatoes, sauerkraut and mustard. You should taste the Haxen which is a leg of pork that is accompanied by Knödeln that are potato gnocchi. Typical of Bavaria is the Weißwurst – a white sausage of veal – and Bretzel – baked goods and savory form of staple, which are often eaten spread with butter. Among typical dishes there are also soups cooked in many different ways and among sweets you can taste the famous Apfelstrudel or apple strudel. Lindau, like the rest of Bavaria, is also famous for its excellent beers.

Shopping

At Lindau is possible to buy beer mugs, the renowned Bavaria porcelain, traditional Bavarian clothes and crafts in wood. During the Christmas period in Lindau are also organized markets and you can find many trinkets and decorations for sale.

Links

For further information on Lindau, you can see the web site of the city.

Map of Alicudi

Alicudi is an unspoiled and wild island, and it retains its natural charm. Formerly it was called by the Greeks “Ericusa”, that meaning “rich of heather”. It is the most western island of the Aeolian archipelago and it measures about 5 sq km.

It is characterized by steep coastlines especially in the west part of the island, and its highest point is represented by Mount Filo dell’Arpa, that is a volcano now dormant that reaches the 675 m above sea level.

It has just over 100 inhabitants located on the eastern side of the island, where there is the only country called precisely Alicudi. The town is divided into five fractions: Alicudi porto, Contrada Tonna, San Bartolo, Contrada Pianicello and Contrada Sgurbio. In the latter village there are only five houses, each of which has the name of the five senses, while the Contrada Pianicello is inhabited by a group of people from German Switzerland.

At Alicudi there are no roads but only lava stone steps and we then moves only by foot or by mules.

On the island there is only one restaurant, a bar, two grocery stores, a shop where sell newspapers and local crafts, a pharmacy, a clinic for first aid and a post office. The electric current in the houses came just a few years ago while the streets are still deprived of light. The island has always suffered from a serious shortage of water, in fact every house has its own cistern for collecting rainwater.

Alicudi is an island suitable for the tourist who wants to spend a holiday in close contact with nature in a secluded place, away from the chaos, where the leaves that move with the wind and the lapping of waves on the coast are the only noises that interrupt the enchanting silence.

Getting there

Alicudi is connected to the mainland and to the other islands of the archipelago by hydrofoils and ferries. For more information see the article of the Aeolian islands in general.

Must see

At Alicudi we suggest you to make the climb to the Filo dell’Arpa through the lush vegetation of the island with its “Fico d’india” (vedere se esiste la traduzione) trees, capers, colorful bougainvillea and heather. From the summit of the dormant volcano you can enjoy an excellent view.

In the center of the village you can see the church of Carmine, the church of San Bartolo (building of the 1600, that has been recently renovated) and a collection of archaeological finds such as pottery and remains of buildings.

The beaches of the island, with rocks and stones, are reachable only by sea with the exception of one that is located at the harbor.

Therefore we recommend the trip around the island by boat to admire its beauty, its steep coast that overlooks the sea and that is punctuated by some lonely cove. During this tour you can see the Rock Galera, that is surrounded by clear waters rich in flora and fauna and the Sciara dell’Arpa, that is a valley that from the top of the island arrives to the sea. Then yuo can see the Punta Roccazza, the Cave of Palumbo, the Scalo Vecchio which is another point of landing of the hydrofoil, and finally you get to Punta Perciato. You can also explore the Timpone of Females, that is a natural fortress where women and children took refuge during attacks.

The waters around Alicudi are rich in fish and therefore they are a destination for fishermen and for lovers of diving.

Where to stay

At Alicudi there is a wide range of tourist facilities. There is a hotel, “The Ericusa” and some rooms and houses for rent.

Accomodation search

Restaurants/Typical cuisine

On the island there is only a restaurant, “The Ericusa”. For more information, see the article about the typical cuisine of the Aeolian Islands.

Shopping

At Alicudi there aren’t  shops where you can do shopping, but there are only two small stores for basic necessities.

Links

On the website of the Municipality of Lipari, in the “Tourism Section”, you can find all the information obout the island.

Map of Filicudi

Filicudi is a destination for who loves the sea, the nature and the silence.
The island has a very rough and rocky land, it is cone-shaped and measures just under 10 sq km. Formerly it was called Phoenicusa that is meaning “rich in ferns”. The highest mountain is Monte Fossa delle Felci that is a dormant volcano and it is up to 744 m altitude.

About 300 people live on the island and there are three urban centers (Filicudi Porto, Valdichiesa and Pecorini a Mare) that are connected by the only paved road on the island. Other areas of Filicudi are reached only by the old (mulattiere).

On the island there are all the necessary services including the post office and rentals of scooters and bicycles that are the best means of transport.

We reccomend to go to Filicudi in the spring when the island flourished, there isn’t too hot and you can then follow the many trails through the lush vegetation that offering some breathtaking views.

Getting there

Filicudi is connected to the mainland and to the other islands of the archipelago by hydrofoils and ferries. For more information see the article of the Aeolian islands in general.

Must see

Overland tours:

At Filicudi there are many paths that you can cover to discover the hinterland of the island and in  particular we recommend the climb to Monte Fossa delle Felci.

Near the port of the island there is the Aeolian Museum which houses important archaeological finds of the archipelago while at Capo Graziano you can admire the remains of a prehistoric village.

The coast is rocky and the beaches are made of small stones; we recommend the beach of Capo Graziano and the beach of Pecorini.

Sea excursions:

The boat excursions leave from the port of Filicudi and bring the tourists to admire the cliffs and the caves that are located along the coast of the island.

In the northern part of Filicudi you can see the Rock of Giafante, which in Sicilian means “elephant”. This is a formation from the shape of a pachyderm, which was created after a volcanic eruption.

It also passes from the little island of Montenassari that has the profile of a back of a dragon and, on the south side of the island, you can see a rock that has the shape of the head of a horse.

Very suggestive is also the Rock of the Fortune, Punta of Perciato with the nearby beach of smooth pebbles and the cliff La Canna, that is about 80m high and it is surrounded by clear waters and rich in fish.

Absolutely not to be missed is a visit to the cave of Bue Marino, where the water takes beautiful colors and there are evocative play of lights. Until a few years ago the cave was the refuge of the monk seal now extinct.

In the waters of Filicudi you can also make unforgettable dives.

Where to stay

At Filicudi there are few hotels / guest houses and some houses and rooms for rent.

Accomodation search

Restaurants/Typical cuisine

On the island there are some restaurants, trattorias and pizzerias, that are mainly located at Filicudi Porto and Pecorini a Mare. For more information, see the article of the typical cuisine of the Aeolian Islands.

Restaurant search

Shopping

Unlike Alicudi, at Filicudi there are some shops where to buy souvenirs and typical objects of the archipelago.

Links

On the website of the Municipality of Lipari, in the section of tourism, you will find all the information on the island.

Map of Stromboli

Stromboli is the farthest island from the coast of Sicily. It measures approximately 12.5 square kilometers and the population lives in the village of Stromboli that is divided among the villages of San Vincenzo, San Bartolo, Scari, Ficogrande and Piscità.

Only a dozen of people lives at Ginostra, that is a small village in the southwest of the island reachable only by sea. The latter is a very typical village: it is located near the famous “Sciara del Fuoco”, the people moving to the edge of mules and until a few years ago were without electricity. It is a very charming village with few houses, a grocery, a restaurant, the Church of San Vincenzo and nothing else….only silence and stillness.

The village of Stromboli is the true center of the island. It is characterized by many narrow streets that climb the volcano and it is spread along a beautiful black sand beach which runs uninterrupted from Scari to Ficogrande.

We recommend turning the island by foot to discover every hidden corner or rent a motorbike or an electricity car.

The island of Stromboli is characterized by the presence of an active volcano, “Iddu” as it is called by the Sicilians and that means “He”, which every year attracts hundreds of tourists. And it is in fact very beautiful admire its eruptions, particularly at night, which occur constantly.

It is a very quiet island, a destination for those who wish to spend their holiday in close contact with nature and fully relax.

The island in 1949 was been the set of the famous film of Rossellini “Stromboli terra di Dio” which had as its main protagonist Ingrid Bergam. This event was very important because it has made known to the world the beauty of this island and has therefore contributed to the development of its tourism.

Getting there

Stromboli is connected to the other islands of the archipelago and to the mainland by ferries and hydrofoils. For more information see the article of the Aeolian islands in general.

Must see

Tour of the island by foot:

Walking through the narrow streets of Stromboli, you can admire unforgettable views and discover beautiful corners. In the center of the island you can see the house where stayed Ingrid Bergman during filming, the beautiful church of San Bartolomeo and the church of San Vincenzo. If you want relax we suggest to go to the long and black sandy beach of Scari and dive into the transparent sea.

Tour of the island by boat:

Daily boat trips are organized to take tourists to see the island from the sea, to see the volcano that is surrounded by its black smoke, to admire the village of Ginostra and the awful cliff of Strombolicchio. The latter is located a few hundred meters north of the island of Stromboli, it is uninhabited and it is the home of a lighthouse of the Navy. The boat also passes in front of the “Sciara del Fuoco”, that is the slope of the island from which normally goes down the lava, diving in the sea. It is recommended making the island tour by boat in the evening to watch the eruption of the volcano from the sea.

Excursion to the crater:

It is also possible to take part in a memorable climb to the crater, accompanied by experienced staff, which allows you to see the eruption of “Him” at 900 m altitiudine. For more information contact then tourism agencies of Stromboli and of the other islands. We only anticipate that to make the climb to the crater is needed a specific equipment and you can not get to the top of the volcano alone without guides. The hike to the crater is also organized with departures from the other islands.

Where to stay

Despite the small size of the island, there are various kinds of accommodation facilities located in the center of Stromboli.

Accomodation search

Restaurants/Typical cuisine

Locals and restaurants are located in the center of the island, along the streets that from the harbor climb the volcano. The Strombolian cuisine has much of the tradition of Campania. One of the typical dishes of the island are “Strombolian Spaghetti” with tomatoes, wild fennel, mint, garlic, anchovies, chilli and breadcrumbs. For more information, see the article of the typical cuisine of the Aeolian Islands.

Restaurant search

Shopping

See the article of the Aeolian islands in general.

Links

On the website of the Municipality of Lipari, in the “Tourism Section,” there are all useful information on the island.

Map of Panarea

Known as the island of VIP, Panarea is actually a little paradise in the Mediterranean. It is the smallest island of the Aeolian archipelago and it is surrounded by the islets of Basiluzzo, Spinazzola, Lisca Bianca, Dattilo, Bottaro, Lisca Nera and by the rocks of Panarelli and of Formiche.

The center of the island lies in the village of San Pietro where there is also located the port. At the north-east of the island there is the another village Ditella and at the south-west there is Drauto. The south-east cost of Panarea is characterized by small beaches and vast flatlands while the north-west part of the island has high and uneven coasts.

Its blue and white houses, its narrow streets passable only by machines and electrical motors and its wonderful sea, make Panarea a very popular tourist destination. On the island there are many clubs and discos, and for this reason it is mostly frequented by young people.

In summer in the sea around Panarea moor (ormeggiano) hundreds of boats and luxury yachts and the island is filled with tourists.

To admire its beauty, we recommend you get around by foot or use the efficient taxi service. Panarea is also known to be the most expensive island of the Aeolian archipelago.

Getting there

Panarea is connected to the other islands of the archipelago and to the mainland by ferries and hydrofoils. For more information see the article of the Aeolian Islands in general.

Must see

Tour of the island by foot:

Departing from the port of the island you can see the many shops of the center and observe the many bars and discos that at night are filled with young people. Moving toward Drauto, through the typical streets of the island, you reach a first bay called Cala Zimmari characterized by a beach of dark sand and a calm sea.

Continuing on you come to Cala Junco – a beautiful beach with an amazing seaside – and then to  Capo Milazzese, that is an enchanting promontory on which it was found a prehistoric settlement from the Bronze Age.

In the northeast of the island, near the beach of the Calcara, you can see the vapors of fumarole that escape from fissures in the rock, sign of the volcanic origin of the island.

At Panarea there are also present some paths of the CAI (Italian Alpine club) that lead you to the top of  the island and to the Calcara.

Tour of the island by boat:

Absolutely not miss boat trips that are organized with departures from Panarea and also from the other islands. During these trips, the boat stops at various points of the island to allow tourists to dive into its beautiful turquoise waters.

They come close to other islands and reefs that surrounding the island and lead to see the underwater fumaroles – which are open after the earthquake of 2002 near the small island of Lisca Bianca – and the Cave of Lovers.

On some reefs and islets can be identified some rocks that was modeled by the sea and wind, and have taken special forms like the famous Finger of Aeolus, a wolf and an eagle.

In the water of Panarea and of its surrounding islets, it’s possibile do unforgettable dives.

Panarea by night:

At the sundown nightclubs and clubs are opened and attract young people even from other islands (the most famous nightclub is Raya). In fact, even from Lipari, depart at night many hydrofoils that take tourists to Panarea and then returns to resume at dawn.

Where to stay

The accommodations in Panarea are mostly luxurious and therefore expensive. If you want to save money, we recommend to stay in Lipari and reach Panarea  by hydrofoil.

Accomodation search

Restaurants/Typical cuisine

In the center of Panarea there are many bars and restaurants, which are also more expensive than the other islands. For more information see the article about the typical cuisine of the Aeolian Islands.

Restaurant search

Shopping

See the article of the Aeolian Islands in general.

Links

On the website of the Municipality of Lipari, in the “Tourism Section”, you’ll find all the information about the island.

Map of Vulcano

Vulcano is the Aeolian island closest to the Sicilian coast, it is in fact only 12 miles from Milazzo. It measures about 21 square kilometers and it consists of three now inactive volcanoes – Lentia, Vulcano Piano and Vulcanello – and of Vulcano della Fossa that instead gives signs of activity.

According to a Greek mythology, the island was the abode of the god Hephaestus, the god of volcanoes, of the endogenous forces of nature, of technology and of metals. It was believed that in the crater of the active volcano there was the workshop of the god of fire where the Cyclops  produced the weapons of the gods.

Vulcano is an island with a certain charm and attracts many tourists especially for the presence of springs, of ponds mud and of fumaroles.

We quickly notice to be near to the island by the strong smell of sulfur derived from the operation of the Vulcano of Fossa. This smell is really strong in some parts of the island and permeates the skin and clothes. For this reason we suggest you to use, especially for swimming in the pond mud, old clothes which can be throw if necessary.

At Vulcano you can find everything you need: from small supermarkets, to the ATM, to the emergency doctor. We recommend you to  rent a bicycle or a motorbike or a car to get around the island. You must remember that unlike Lipari, at Vulcano there isn’t a street that accomplishes the circumnavigation of the island.

Getting there

Vulcano is connected to the other islands and to the mainland by ferries and hydrofoils. Starting from Milazzo, Vulcano is the first stop and the travel is just over half an hour long. For more information see the article of the Aeolian Islands in general.

Must see

Tour of the island by foot:

We recommend to stop at Port of Ponente, where there are the famous black sand beaches  and where the sea water is warm because of the gases that are emanating from the seabed.

Not far away there is the Port of Levante with pond thermal mud; here you can immerse yourself and enjoy its beneficial properties, especially useful for rheumatism and some skin diseases (the entrance is a fee). To rinse the mud, you can dip yourself in the sea that boils because of underwater fumaroles. Always close to Port of Levante, there are several fumaroles that emitting gas that have  health benefits.

You must also see the beautiful small beach of Cheese and the small beach of Mastro Minico, which are situated on the south of the west beach. Another beautiful beach is the beach of Gelso, that is situated  in the other part of the island and to reach it we suggest to rent a mean of transport or to take a taxi.

Do not miss the climb to the crater of the Vulcano della Fossa at 400 m of altitude. You start from Port of Levante, the climb takes about an hour and you must be equipped with boots. When you reach the crater the sulfur smell is getting stronger, but the view of the panorama from up there is truly unforgettable.

Near Port of Ponente there is the Center of Volcanology.

On the island you can visit several caves (such as the cave of Rossi at Piano dell’Arpa) that were initially rocky cave of graves, later used as dwellings.

Tour of the island by boat:

We recommend to take a boat trip to discover the wonders of the island. The tours leave from Port of Levante and bring tourists to see the islet of Vulcanello, where you can observe the so-called Valley of the Monsters with its disturbing figures that are been formed after the solidification of volcanic material.

Continuing you arrive to the wonderful Horse Cave, with its lakes, tunnels, stalactites, stalagmites and special figures that are the result of sulfur water and of vapors.

Not far away you can admire the Venus Pool, that is a natural amphitheater surrounded by rocks and basaltic tuff.

Near the black beaches you can see the famous cliffs of the Mermaid.

At Vulcano there is also the possibility to make some beautiful diving.

Where to stay

Vulcano offers all types of accommodations, from Residences to the hotels with spa and wellness areas, to campings.

Accomodation search

Restaurants/Typical cuisine

The restaurants are mainly located in the center of Vulcano, near the Port of Ponente and the Port of Levante. For more information, see the article about the typical cuisine of the Aeolian Islands.

Restaurant search

Shopping

See the article of the Aeolian Islands in general.

Links

On the website of the Municipality of Lipari, in the “Section of Tourism”, you will find all relevant information on the island.