You may also be hearing about it for the first time, but Pantelleria, a lovely island between Sicily and Tunisia, is a real paradise for anyone who wants to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This remote Mediterranean island has escaped the radar of tourist guides, which is why this summer is the right time to visit it.
The volcanic islet on the Mediterranean coast, south of Sicily, is one of Italy's southernmost points. It was his aloofness that ensured that, despite his excellent location and beauty, he remained fairly unknown and uncivilized. The original name of the island was Bent-el-Riah or in Arabic translation, daughter of the wind. The wind is one of the characteristics of the island, in addition to the dramatic lava formations and mud baths. While discovering the island, which is characterized by terraced olive groves, vineyards, as well as cute houses made of local volcanic stones with domes, you can also create yourself in one of the underwater caves, while you will not really find real beaches here. Never heard of Pantelleria before? You are far from the only one. But that's why the island is so much more popular among the famous, among other things, famous people have made their nest here Giorgio Armani.
When to Pantelleria?
Between June and September, the island welcomes you with clear skies and only a small chance of rain. Winter, on the other hand, is more humid and cold, and for hiking adventures, a visit in spring or autumn is recommended.
Photo: Unsplash/Ante HamersmitWhat should I see at Pantelleria?
Thermal water springs, mud baths, mountain tops with picturesque views that reach all the way to Tunisia. All these are the characteristics of the island, where you will search in vain for sandy beaches and lively nightlife, but you will find peace, the gentle caress of the wind and a variety of hiking opportunities. Volcanic lake Lago Specchio di Venere is located on the northern coast of the island, and next to it there are also a series of natural springs and mud baths with a temperature between 40°C and 50°C.
The mud also has beauty properties, so you can apply it without hesitation to the skin, wait for it to dry and then wash it off with geothermal water. Although the island is not famous for the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean, it is Balata dei Turchi definitely worth your visit. And effort. After several kilometers of unpaved road, descend to one of the best swimming areas on the island – a beautiful cave with turquoise blue water.
Photo: Unsplash/Ante HamersmitCala Tramontana on the other hand, it is one of the most popular swimming spots on the island. It is a small swimming cave, which is equipped with a wooden jetty and flirts with a row of traditional stone houses. Also Cala Levante it quickly impresses visitors, even though it is located between a series of steep cliffs, on the east coast of the island. Arco dell'Elefante is a natural bridge that resembles an elephant's trunk and is definitely worth a visit while exploring Calo Tramontana and Calo Levante.
Definitely worth a visit Parco Archeologico dei Sesi, an archaeological site in the north-western part of the island, where you can find a series of preserved megalithic stone necropolises - sesi. Pantelleria it is also popular among hiking enthusiasts, who can choose from a range of picturesque hiking trails and peaks that offer views far and wide, all the way to the African coast. It is suitable for anyone who is interested in vigorous activity underground Museo Vulcanologico, a small museum with a fascinating presentation of the volcanic geology of the island.
Photo: Unsplash/Paolo ChiabrandoHow to explore Pantelleria?
The best way is to rent a car, as the roads are often poorly maintained and difficult to access. In August, the rental prices vary between 50 and 70 euros per day, and during the rest of the year they drop by almost half. Buses on the island are quite unreliable, but you can definitely use taxis.
How much is a plane ticket to Pantelleria?
You can fly to Pantelleria from Venice with the Volotea airline for as little as 38 euros. You can search for flight tickets according to your vacation date HERE.
Photo: Unsplash/Adelio ZanottiCovid-19 restrictions on Pantelleria
To enter Italy you need to fulfill the PCT condition, i.e. you need either a vaccination certificate, a negative test result or a health certificate. Check all current information about Covid-19 restrictions HERE.
Accommodation on Pantelleria
Hotel Village Suvaki
The first four-star complex on the island offers beautiful views from the balconies of the rooms, and at the same time, the hotel is located in a fantastic location, which is an excellent starting point for discovering the island. The hotel also has a swimming pool, and the hotel restaurant spoils you with delicious Italian cuisine.
Pantelleria Dream Resort
Just a short walk away from the coast, a few kilometers outside the main town of the island, there is accommodation with traditional stone houses. It offers two outdoor pools with a panoramic view and a spacious sun terrace. The suites are furnished in Arabic style, and every day you are pampered with a rich breakfast buffet.
