VulcanoThings to do

Things to do in Vulcano

  1. Fossa di Vulcano

    Climbing Fossa di Vulcano (391m) is one of the island's main attractions. The walk up to the crater is self-evident. Follow the intermittent signs for 'Al Cratere' (or ask for directions), which take you south out of the port area along Via Provinciale. About 500m further, a track slopes off to the left (not well signposted; look out for a gravel track) which leads up to the crater.

    reviewed

  2. Laghetto di Fanghi

    Mud-bath enthusiasts should head for the Laghetto di Fanghi, a large mud pit of thick, smelly, sulphurous gloop that has long been considered an excellent treatment for arthritis, rheumatism and skin disorders. Don’t wear your designer swimsuit (you’ll never get the smell out), and be sure to leave your gold chains behind (they will tarnish). Afterwards you can hop into the water at the adjacent beach where acquacalda (hot springs) create a natural jacuzzi effect.

    reviewed

  3. Vulcania Tour bus

    The Vulcania Tour bus transports passengers up and down the steep curves of Gelso (20 minutes). If you are going to either of Gelso's beaches, ask the driver to let you off at the dirt track. Buses from Gelso leave at 11:00, 12:10 and 17:00, picking up passengers from the pier. Boat tours of the island also call in here and are happy to take passengers on a tour.

    reviewed

  4. La Forgia Maurizio

    The owner of this devilishly good restaurant spent 20 winters in Goa, India; eastern influences sneak into a menu of Sicilian specialities, all prepared and presented with flair. Don’t miss the liquore di kumquat e cardamom, Maurizio’s home-made answer to limoncello. The tasting menu is an excellent deal at €25 including wine and dessert.

    reviewed

  5. Cantine Stevenson

    Like some ill-advised transplant of Scottish décor onto a Sicilian island, Cantine Stevenson is, visually, sorely out of place. But take a tipple in James Stevenson's wine cellars and you'll be thanking the Scotsman who bought most of Vulcano in the 19th century with a view to exploiting its natural resources. He also planted the first vineyards.

    reviewed

  6. Gruppo Trekking Vulcano

    Though it's not really necessary since the climb up the volcano is not very tough, you can hire a guide. Contact Gruppo Trekking Vulcano. They organise daily hikes up the volcano as well as other treks, including an ascent of Stromboli (and snorkelling outings. It has a stand by the restaurant Da Maurizio.

    reviewed

  7. Ritrovo Remigio

    This place sells the best cannoli ever. Fresh, with the perfect contrast of soft ricotta and crispy biscuit, it'll send you cannoli crazy. Don't leave Vulcano without getting at least one. It's right by the port, as you get off the ferry.

    reviewed

  8. Trattoria Maniaci Pina

    On the south side of the Vulcano, beside a black-sand beach, this atmospheric, down-to-earth trattoria serves hefty portions of fresh-caught fish at affordable prices. Try the spaghetti with nero di seppia (cuttlefish ink).

    reviewed

  9. Gruppo Nazionale Vulcanologia

    Sedentary volcano-watchers can visit the small museum administered by Gruppo Nazionale Vulcanologia, which has displays about Vulcano and a video (in English, French and Italian) about Stromboli’s last big eruption.

    reviewed

  10. Gioielli del Mare

    The proprietor of this outfit organises bus tours around the island in his red transit Ford. Make a booking and wait for a group of 10 people to form.

    reviewed

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  12. Da Vincenzino

    Just near Da Maurizio, this place is close to the port and OK for lunch or dinner. The service is friendly and the portions generous.

    reviewed

  13. Sprint

    Scooters (per day €15 to €45), bicycles (€5 to €8) and small motorised cars (€35 to €70) can be rented from Sprint.

    reviewed

  14. Café Piazzetta

    For pizzas and snacks, try Café Piazzetta, which has live music in the summer.

    reviewed

  15. Diving Center Saracen

    You can go diving with the Diving Center Saracen.

    reviewed