UNDER A SKY HIGH AND WITHOUT CLOUDS: Journey in the Aeolian Islands, Italy

The distance, the distance from everything, this is what you “feel” inside you, coming where – in spring and autumn – they stop herons and red herons, pelicans and flamingos, ducks, cranes and wild geese. Under that sky high and cloudless, seven volcanic islands retain clear waters and prehistoric remains, in a landscape overlooking the sea, covered with Mediterranean vegetation, where you too can learn to recognize olive and carob, fig and almond trees. At any time of year, you will find wind and mild climate and serenity, the experience of the soul that only Nature can give. To the north of Sicily, the seven volcanic islands (Salina and Lipari, Vulcano, Filicudi and Alicudi, Panarea and Stromboli), are surrounded by small islands, under that same sky high and cloudless, what looks good on you Malvasia wine and capers, almond trees and prickly pears. http://www.eoliando.it/info/eolie_arcipelago_eng.asp 

When you arrive in Lipari, the first things that you’ll see from the sea will be the promontory of the castle and an ancient acropolis. On this island, you shall know the radiance of pumice stone, coastal high and low, covered with geraniums and bougainvillea. Maybe you visit the Castle and Cathedral, the archaeological area and the Aeolian Museum (where you’ll be amazed by the section of marine archeology). Do not forget to go to Acquacalda, surrounded by a landscape of pumice quarries, but the last day of your stay on the island I advise you to go to Pianoconte. Yes, the special place in my memory, a plateau full of small white houses, with a lookout fascinating and unforgettable: Quattrocchi. http://www.eoliando.it/info/eolie_arcipelago_eng.asp