The Aeolian Islands are like small chips off the Sicilian Coast, set adrift, and offer the same wonderfully contrasting landscape: beautiful sandy beaches in a range of colours, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and verdant rural idylls. There’s a lot of variety in the accommodation options on our list of the best places to stay on the Aeolian Islands too, from traditional seaside hotels, to converted villas and farmhouses, and resorts with plenty of style and all the bells and whistles. What our recommendations seem to share is a preference for white paint and elegant arches, plus room rates that might surprise you. Because, at the moment, the best places to stay on the Aeolian Islands are still just under the radar of many travellers.
The seven Aeolian Islands are Lipari, Salina, Vulcano, Stromboli, Panarea, Filicudi and Alicudi, but the ferry routes dictate that most visitors arrive on Lipari, which offers clear seas off postcard-perfect sandy beaches, a wealth of Greek and Roman archaeological sites to explore, and walking trails that run all over the island. Salina is the lush, green island, because of numerous fresh-water springs, which have lined the volcanic craters with fantastic flora — perfect for walkers and foodies. Vulcano is spectacular, but flawed a bit by its sulphuric mud baths — though these are seriously therapeutic, so this is a great pick for spa lovers. Stromboli is the youngest island, with volcanoes that still spit gas and magma, but it's an incredible place, and amazing for divers! Panarea is small and exclusive, its marina parked with luxury yachts, and its restaurants loved by sun-drenched glamour-pusses, but it still makes for a serenely beautiful escape. Filicudi and Alicudi both offer a sense of being the very remotest outpost of civilisation.
What the best places to stay on the Aeolian Islands all offer is the chance to stay on an island paradise, and for a reasonable price too.