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It was learned later that a fine of around €500 could have been imposed for hiking to the peak of the volcano without being accompanied by a guide. In my defense, no signs at the trailhead indicated such a requirement, but we were fortunate to avoid penalty.”
Some rumors claim the fines began after some hikers perished inhaling toxic gases. Others told us it was simply a new way for the guiding agencies to make money since they have sole rights to take you to the summit.
While we do not advise climbing the Stromboli volcano illegally, we do not personally regret the actions we took – resting under the stars as we watched eruptions of lava from the volcano.
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HOW TO GET TO STROMBOLI
One straightforward way to reach Stromboli is from Milazzo. Multiple ferries depart daily from its port to the Aeolian Islands: Lípari, Vulcano, Salina, Stromboli, Filicudi, Alicudi and Panarea.
Our visit to Sicily was rather short, therefore we had reserved only a single day to see Stromboli. To make the most of our time there, we took the initial ferry out and returned on the subsequent day as soon as possible.
We traveled using Usticaline, where a round-trip ticket cost € 45 per individual. The ferry takes roughly an hour and a half to reach Stromboli with stops at the other islands.
Top things TO DO IN STROMBOLI IN ONE DAY
The island of Stromboli consists primarily of two main settlements, Stromboli and Ginostra. Access to these settlements is solely by boat. Ginostra is much smaller in size, and the route to the volcano from there is more difficult, so we went to Stromboli.
You will find a sample Stromboli in a single day itinerary within this section .
STROMBOLI village
When arriving at the Stromboli port, you will see the imposing volcano that you are about ready to climb.
To the right on the main avenue, extensive volcanic black sand beaches could be seen.
Additionally, I suggest you move away from the coast and lose yourself in the whitewashed alleys. If you have ever viewed the classic Stromboli movie, you will feel as if you have been here.
Even in the month of July, the island retains a serene and leisurely atmosphere despite being buffered from the hustlings of other tourist hotspots in Sicily like Cefalu and Taormina.
When observing the size of the roads, you entirely grasp why there are no automobiles in Stromboli. The only vehicles traveling through these narrow lanes are motorbikes and the iconic Piaggio Ape, like the one you can see in the next graphic.
We also recommend exploring the Parrocchia di San Vincenzo Ferrari, where wonderful views are available from the square.
From there, you can see the Strombolicchio, an islet just 2km from Stromboli. Its name means “Small Stromboli” in Sicilian. This tiny islet is essentially what remains of the original volcano that collapsed into the sea.
STROMBOLI BEACHES
One of the finest ways to spend your morning in Stromboli is at one of its volcanic black sand shorelines, Grotta di Eolo, proposed by a pair of locals as the optimum beach around.
This shoreline is notable for its natural sea cave formed by lava. The beach site is quite hidden, so I recommend checking its location on the provided map.
An interesting aspect we came across on the way to this beach was an alert sign concerning tsunamis. Since earthquakes are relatively commonplace in Stromboli, this positions the island at risk for tidal waves if the tremors are sizable enough.
In the year 2002, a tsunami struck the island causing severe damages, and afterwards, signs similar to this could be easily spotted.
Hiking THE STROMBOLI VOLCANO by yourself
Nonetheless, the most exciting part of our day spent on Stromboli was ascending the active volcano.
In the map below, you can see guided tour routes in blue . It is done counterclockwise since it is simpler to go down a slope of volcanic ash.
The green route shown referred to the footpath of Sciara del Fuoco, a trail which guided individuals to the viewpoint overlooking Sciara del Fuoco. From there, only professionals with special permits or guardians could continue further. There ought to have been a warning sign present, yet curiously we did not happen to notice one.
SCIARA DEL FUOCO Lookout
The Sciara del Fuoco Lookout is approximately two hours from the center of Stromboli. I recommend carrying ample water. On the ascent, you will not locate any place to stop and obtain more.
It is elementary at the initiation. If you want to see the coast, you just have to walk Northwest on Via Vittorio Emanuele or Via Regina Elena, then follow Via Piscità.
When arriving at the “ osservatorio”, the path can become more obscured by the overgrowth that nearly envelops you. Additionally, the trail inclines more steeply, making traversing it more complicated.
The observatory was originally established for studying and monitoring volcanic activities, though nowadays it solely functions as a restaurant.
After undertaking a fairly oppressive zigzag trek of continual alteration in direction, we arrived at the vista intended merely in time to behold the sunset. This vantage point is located approximately 290m above sea level and contains two levels. From the second level one is able to perceive Sciara del Fuoco, the route by which lava moves downward towards the sea.
We got to see smoke emerging from the volcano and some stones rolling downhill. As with any natural phenomenon, it is impossible to control. It turned out that the volcano was in a low activity period during our trip to Stromboli.
THE SUMMIT OF THE STROMBOLI VOLCANO
We were very close to the highest point, at about 900 meters high (the peak is 924 meters).
We heard voices from those on a guided volcano tour near us. We saw the lights of their lanterns a few meters away. However, at that moment, we realized we perhaps should not be there. To avoid conflict with the guides, we decided not to join the guided groups and quickly went back the way we came. Whatever path is chosen, obtaining quality travel insurance for Europe is crucial. Here is a comparison of top travel insurance providers we recently reviewed.
WHERE TO STAY IN STROMBOLI
A few days before making their journey to Stromboli, Dani and I opted to cancel the lodging we had booked at the accommodation. Prices on Stromboli are quite pricey, and since we were traveling with a limited funds we decided to try to camp out either at the volcano or one of the beaches.
Bivouac IN THE SCIARA DEL FUOCO
Around two hours after we commenced, we were back at the starting point, the Sciara del Fuoco viewpoint.
Amidst the darkness and low volcanic activity, occasionally a few flashes of fire seemed to be shot endlessly, and other times, a muted roar breaking the night`s silence reminded us that the volcano was still alive.
While Dani practiced some night photos, I unfurled the sleeping bag and laid down to observe the volcano’s summit until sleep overtook me.
Bivouac in the GROTTA DI EOLO
However, the peace did not last very long. The sky became covered with clouds and a threatening rain. We gathered our bags and descended the volcano to find some shelter. And there was no better place than the Grotta di Eolo.
It was two o`clock in the morning when we opened the sleeping bags inside the cave. The temperature was perfect. Also, there were no mosquitoes and we were able to sleep the remainder of the night.
The next morning, we rose early with the first lights that crept into our cave, and headed to the port for the ferry.
WHERE TO EAT IN STROMBOLI
We had two meals in Stromboli. The first was just before embarking on our adventure to the volcano. Of all the restaurants we found, we dined at “ Le Terraze di Eolo”. More Italian pasta and white wine to continue with our Sicilian diet.
The same Sicilians who advised us on the Grotta di Eolo beach also informed us about the most affordable grocery store on the island, “ Bottega del Marano”.
Do not expect a large supermarket – It is more akin to a local convenience store where they offer pickles, water and prepared sandwiches. Moreover, for the most reasonably priced store in Stromboli, it was still rather expensive (10€ per sandwich), but everything on this small and remote island commands a premium price.
With this helpful information we conclude our guide about activities that can be done in Stromboli in a single day.
