Aeolian Islands

I typically like to keep this blog food-focused. However, after experiencing the Aeolian Islands, located off the north coast of Sicily, I HAD to dedicate a post to this beautiful paradise. 

The island of Stromboli, a "perfect" triangle with a single volcano in the center. With a group and a guide, we hiked to the top of the volcano (at 920 meters in elevation ) and watched it erupt just after sunset. It was challenging, but also one of the most amazing experiences I have had in Italy.

 Nearing the top, we were above the clouds. 

We hiked the narrow ridge to the top and watched the eruptions from above the crater. It was very cold and windy on the top, with ash particles flying around. These are the "islands of wind".

 Lava

 Beautiful Salina island with Filicudi in the distance.

 Wild purple poppy with Panarea and Stomboli in the distance. The color of the water is intensely blue!

 There are 7 islands in total. This is the view from Lipari to Vulcano.

 Vulcano is known for it's stinky sulfur mud baths. 

 The Aeolian Islands

 Vulcano island also has an inactive volcano. This hike is much easier and faster than stromboli, but also rewarding!

Paradise