Page 42 - The Sicilian Experience Brochure

Aeolian

Islands

The Aeolian islands are a group of seven
volcanic islands just 45 minutes by hydrofoil
from Milazzo and 1 hour 15 minutes from
Messina. Famed for centuries by the cognoscenti
Marina Corta Lipari
for their association with Greek and Roman
civilisations the islands offer a different and Lipari is the largest and liveliest of the islands favoured by scuba divers and snorkellers. With
slightly mysterious world from that of mainland and according to mythology claims that it was the absence of cars and with its rich and
Sicily. The oldest are Alicudi and Filicudi which the home of Aeolus, god of winds, who gave colourful sub-tropical vegetation Panarea is a
prime example of how life can still be lived at
are approximately 1 million years old and the Ulysses a bag of winds to assist him during
most recent are Vulcano and Stromboli which his ten-year Odyssey around the eastern nature’s pace.
still have volcanic activity. Mediterranean Sea. Among its attractions Lipari Stomboli is the furthest away from the
has a superb archaeological museum, spa baths
Architecture here is quite unique with houses and Roman sauna cave. A trip round the island mainland. It is most famous for its spectacular
built from the local lava and pumice stone and by scooter is the best way to explore the small “fireworks” display and is the only volcano in
mainly painted white. Only Lipari and Salina villages and admire the breathtaking views of Europe with permanently eruptive activity.
permit cars from outside and the smaller islands the other islands. An early evening climb to the crater can be
offer the rare experience today of an almost undertaken with a guide and takes
vehicle-free environment. Services between the The second largest island, also the highest is approximately three hours to go up – two to
islands are good and visitors have a choice of Salina. With its twin peaks it is surprisingly come down.
hydrofoils or more leisurely car ferries. green and fertile. It is here that the grapes for The crystal clear waters surrounding the Aeolian
the famous dessert wine malvasia are grown
islands make it a diving and snorkelling haven.
Vulcano is the closest to Sicily’s mainland and along with capers and olives. The island,
its lunar landscape still shows traces of the last consisting of three small towns, is quiet and Courses at all levels can be arranged and
eruption in 1890 which shaped its rocky equipment hired locally.
relaxing.
coastline. It is possible to walk to the crater’s
peak – and also experience the pungent smell of Panarea is the smallest and arguably the most
the sulphurous gas it exudes. Its beach is of fine, beautiful of the islands with stunning views of
soft black sand, the sea bubbling with hot Stromboli. Very fashionable with the “jet-set” in
springs and its famous hot mud pool is reputed the summer months, it has clear blue waters
to cure rheumatic ailments. surrounding a rocky coastline and is much

Lipari

Hotel Mea

Hotel Mea ★★★★
This hotel is a haven of modern luxury built on
traditional, local ideals. The brilliantly white
exterior of the hotel terrace and pool area, and
the beautiful panoramic view the terrace
beholds has an immediate calming effect on
guests. Hotel Mea is situated centrally at only a
five minute walk from the port, yet peacefully
tucked away from any unwanted noise or
traffic. Rooms open out onto meandering
garden pathways which are ornamented with
ulive (olive trees), a Sicilian talisman of good
luck. The sophisticated restaurant Chimera,
Hotel Mea boasts a traditional menu comprising of locally
sourced vegetables, fruit, and fresh fish. The
interior of the hotel is a refreshing fusion of a
modern minimalist taste, a traditional Eolian
style, as well as Moorish undertones, as a
result of which each room is uniquely adorned
and decorated. Guests can enjoy the idyllic
terrace and pool area as the hotel hosts open
air aperitivo, cocktail hour and on occasion live
music events.

FACILITIES
● 37 rooms b/s wc - most with patio
sea/mountain view
● 2 garden suites
● restaurant
● bar
● swimming pool with hydromassage area
● air conditioning
Hotel Mea ● lift
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