Unveiled Italian island boasts awe-inspiring scenery and vineyard terraces, making it a must-see destination.
Nestled in the Tyrrhenian Sea off the coast of Sicily lies the captivating island of Salina, often referred to as 'the green island' due to its lush landscapes. This jewel of the Aeolian archipelago, renowned for its spectacular landscapes shaped by six ancient volcanoes, offers a plethora of attractions and activities for visitors.
Salina's name originates from a small salt lake where salt was once harvested. Today, the island is renowned for its fresh produce, particularly capers, which are used in local dishes and sauces, and the Malvasia delle Lipari, a sweet wine produced on the island, which is a famous specialty.
One of the top attractions on Salina is hiking Monte Fossa delle Felci, the highest point of the archipelago at 962 meters (3156 ft). The hike offers panoramic views of the island and surrounding sea, taking around 3 to 4 hours round trip from the trailhead near the village of Lingua.
Another must-visit location is the village of Pollara, famed for its dramatic setting within an extinct volcanic crater and its stunning sunset views. Pollara is also known as a filming location for the movie Il Postino. Nearby, Balate Bay offers one of the most enchanting views on the island, particularly at sunset.
Exploring charming villages like Santa Marina Salina and Lingua is a delight. These picturesque towns boast pedestrian streets, boutiques, pebble beaches, and opportunities to buy fresh capers, turmeric, and oregano from local producers. Santa Marina beach, on the east coast, is the most famous beach on Salina, made of large smooth stones facing a crystal-clear sea.
For those seeking a gastronomic adventure, Salina offers a total immersion in traditional Mediterranean cuisine. Punta Lena offers a menu centred around fresh, seasonal ingredients, while Nni Lausta, a Michelin-starred restaurant, specialises in local fish and seafood dishes. For flavours from around the world, La Terrazza del Pheniculo is a lovely venue to consider.
Boat tours and inter-island excursions provide scenic views of the coastline and neighbouring Aeolian Islands such as Lipari, Panarea, and Stromboli, including the opportunity to witness Stromboli’s volcanic activity by night. The rock arch of Punta Perciato, accessible only by boat, offers postcard-perfect views.
To reach Salina, one must first fly to Sicily, landing in Palermo or Catania, and then travel to the port of Milazzo on the north-east coast. From Milazzo, there are two ways to travel to Salina: the hydrofoil or the traditional ferry.
The best time to visit Salina is from late spring to early autumn (May to September) for ideal weather and ferry services. A stay of 2 to 4 days is recommended to fully enjoy hiking, village exploration, wine tasting, and island hopping around Salina and the Aeolian Islands.
[1] Visit Salina [2] Aeolian Islands [3] Salina Guide [4] Lonely Planet
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