ADVERTISEMENTFavignana is an Italian island of pale sand beaches, cliffsides covered in Mediterranean scrub and whitewashed hamlets. It was in this paradisiacal location that poet Homer’s Greek hero Odysseus came ashore and roasted goats in The Odyssey.
Director Christopher Nolan has announced that the island - part of the Egadi archipelago off Sicily’s north-west coast - will also be one of the filming locations of his adaptation of the epic poem.
Other scenes will be set on the equally idyllic Aeolian islands lying off the north-east of Sicily.
As they join the list of set-jetting destinations for 2025, we bring you expert advice on how to make the most of these under-the-radar islands.
Visit the Aeolian islands for volcanic treks and night sailing
The Aeolian islands offer experiences suited to every travel style, according to Claudia Emanuel from boutique tour operator Emotional Sicily.
Adventure seekers can explore volcanoes, trek through rugged landscapes, or sail between the islands. “Night sailing around Stromboli to witness Sciara del Fuoco, the lava cascading down the volcano, is an unforgettable experience,” Emanuel says.
As for trekking, you can join a late afternoon guided hike up Stromboli volcano to 400m (the highest point allowed) to witness the volcanic activity up close.
On the neighbouring island of Salina, a four-hour trek takes you up Monte Fossa delle Felci, the highest peak in the Aeolian Islands with breathtaking views.
On Alicudi, Emotional Sicily organise custom trekking experiences with a local guide to explore the car-free island where transportation is by foot or mule along volcanic stone steps.
Beach lovers can enjoy crystal-clear waters and secluded coves, best accessed by boat.
Those looking for a hit of culture are recommended to visit Ginostra, a tiny Stromboli village accessible only by sea, known for having one of the world’s smallest ports, Il Buco.
Emanuel also recommends visiting archaeological sites and museums, such as the Luigi Bernabò Brea Archaeological Museum in Lipari or the Museo Eoliano dell’Emigrazione in Salina - a well-curated museum in Malfa that tells the story of Aeolian migration.
Best restaurants in Panarea and Vulcano
Foodies will find a hyper-local cuisine of fresh seafood including tuna, swordfish and octopus. Emanuel suggests the restaurant Cusiritati on Panarea to enjoy fish alongside a stunning view.
Before a volcano hike, you might want to fuel up on ‘spaghetti alla Stromboliana’, a pasta dish with wild fennel, mint, anchovies, cherry tomatoes and breadcrumbs.
A must-try light-bite is ‘pane cunzato’, a legendary Aeolian-style sandwich with wood-fired bread soaked in local olive oil and topped with tomatoes, capers, tuna, mozzarella, and other fresh ingredients. Emanuel recommends Malvasia in Vulcano, where the owner sold the sandwiches from a pushcart before opening his now-famous garden restaurant.
ADVERTISEMENTThe islands are also famous for Malvasia, a sweet dessert wine produced mainly in Salina. Excellent wineries for tastings include Caravaglio and Hauner wineries, Emanuel says.
When is the best time of year to visit the Aeolian islands?
The best time to visit is May to June and September to October when the weather is perfect but the islands are less crowded, Emanuel says. Most Italians take their long summer holidays in July and August so this is when holiday destinations see the most visitors.
If you have limited time to visit the islands, she recommends prioritising Salina for its green landscapes, wineries and excellent restaurants, and Stromboli for its dramatic volcanic activity, unique hiking experiences and the Sciara del Fuoco night display.
Find hidden grottoes and garden tunnels on Favignana
Favignana, part of the Egadi Islands, lies off the west coast of Sicily near Trapani and Marsala.
ADVERTISEMENTUnlike the volcanic landscapes of the Aeolians, the Egadi Islands have a softer, limestone-based terrain, creating unique coastal formations and hidden grottoes.
Favignana offers a blend of natural beauty and leisurely island exploration. Emanuel recommends hiking up to Castello di Santa Caterina, an ancient fortress perched on the highest point of the island, or visiting La Tonnara Florio, an old tuna fishery with a fascinating history.
Visit Cala Bue Marino, a cove located on the rocky eastern coast known for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic limestone quarries, and Giardino dell’Impossibile, a Mediterranean garden built within sunken tufa-stone courtyards, tunnels and caves.
Emanuel also suggests setting aside a day to visit the nearby islands of Levanzo (charming and quiet, with prehistoric cave paintings at Grotta del Genovese) and Marettimo (the wildest of the Egadi, great for trekking and boat excursions).
ADVERTISEMENTFeast on tuna on Favignana
Favignana’s cuisine is heavily influenced by its tuna fishing heritage and fresh Mediterranean ingredients. Some must-try dishes include a ‘panino con il tonno’ - a tuna sandwich often paired with Sicilian olive oil, capers and tomatoes - and ‘couscous di pesce’, a dish inspired by North African flavours served with fresh fish broth.
Standout dining spots include Trattoria La Bettola, the oldest trattoria on the island, and Formica Osteria, a Japanese-Sicilian fusion restaurant.
When are the best times to visit Favignana?
The best months to visit Favignana are May to June and September to October when the weather is warm but the crowds are smaller. July and August are peak seasons, with more tourists and higher prices, but are also the best time for a lively atmosphere.
If you enjoy cycling, hiking, and exploring, spring and autumn are ideal. For swimming and sunbathing, summer is perfect.
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