Off Sicily's northeastern coast lies an archipelago of seven spectacular islands of volcanic origin. The Aeolian Islands (Isole Eolie) tempt with superb snorkeling and lazy boat days in the clearest and cleanest of Italy's waters, not to mention plenty of challenging treks along rocky paths.
In addition to the abundance of outdoor activities, the area is rich with capers, fresh-from-the-boat seafood, and Malvasia wine. These islands truly sate every appetite.
Named for Aeolus, the keeper of the winds in Greek mythology, these isles are licked by the Mediterranean breeze throughout the year, which makes them a popular destination for sailing. In Homer's Odyssey, Aeolus ruled over Aeolia, a mythical, floating island. He kept the winds locked away and only released them at the command of the gods. Odysseus was entrusted with a closed bag of unfavorable winds to ensure a safe and speedy journey home. Alas, his crew opened the bag, and their ship was blown back to the shores of Aolia.
The islands emerged from the sea through a series of volcanic events nearly 700,000 years ago. On the oldest island, Panarea, researchers have found evidence of life dating back to the Neolithic period, as well as artifacts from the ancient Bronze Age. The youngest island, Stromboli, is probably close to 40,000 years old. And a litany of civilizations has inhabited this archipelago through the ages: Greek, Roman, Carthaginian, Visigoth, Byzantine, and Norman, just to name a few.
Lipari is the largest island and provides the widest range of lodging, so it's a good jumping-off point for day trips to the others. Vulcano is noted for black-sand beaches and stupendous sunsets (from the top of the Gran Cratere you can see the entire archipelago), as well as for the acrid smell of sulfur.
Panarea is the most exclusive island, with more of a see-and-be-scene vibe. It is also, according to some, the prettiest of the group. Perhaps most remarkable is Stromboli, with its constant eruptions, while the greenest island—and the one with the best hiking—is Salina. The farthest afield are Filicudi and Alicudi, where electricity was introduced only in the 1990s and where travelers can go for ultimate peace and quiet.
