Salina

Salina, after Lipari, is the largest island of the Aeolian Islands archipelago, in terms of size, number of inhabitants and altitude. Both Fossa delle Felci and Monte dei Porri, in fact, are extinct, green-covered volcanoes that are so high that Salina tops the list.

The island is subdivided into three municipalities, Leni, Malfa and Santa Marina, which undoubtedly boast some of the most beautiful beaches to be found in Sicily. These include Scario, Pollara, Rinella and Santa Marina.

As mentioned above, the area is rich in vegetation, which is why it is also known as the ‘Green Pearl’ and has been turned into a nature reserve. This is one reason why the island is perfect for nature lovers and hikers alike.

Being located right in the middle of the other islands, it is easily accessible by hydrofoil or by boat from the town of Milazzo and can be visited by scooter, car and especially by boat, so that one can really enjoy spectacular spots such as Punta Perciato or Capo Faro.

Salina is also important from a historical point of view: just think of the archaeological site of Portella and the Mastrongioli Necropolis. Historical evidence even goes back to the Bronze Age. In addition, Roman baths dating from the period between the 2nd century BC and the 6th century AD have been found in the Barone area.

In addition, there are two museums in Salina, the Santa Marina Salina Museum and the Wine Museum, which are important for bearing witness to the food and wine elements of the place, as they emphasise the excellent quality of wines, such as ‘Malvasia delle Lipari’, which are native to this island along with capers.

The Beaches

The Scario beach is located within the municipality of Melfi, in an area that can be reached in 5 minutes from the centre; it is made up of pebbles and crystal-clear water, which is perfect for families with children.

Pollara beach also belongs to the municipality of Melfi, although it is much further from the town centre, at the end of a path and steep steps.

Rinella beach, on the other hand, is located in Leni. It is composed of black sand of volcanic origin and is crescent-shaped. Its seabed is perfect for scuba divers without scuba tanks, because the seabed is beautiful and very shallow.

The Santa Marina beach is devoid of sand and instead is full of smooth, coarse pebbles and facilities where the classic lido services can be used.

The Municipalities

Santa Marina is the main one, full of small shops and the main marina and clubs that make the summer nightlife a mast of the Sicilian summer.

Malfa is so called because it was founded by a colony of Amalfitans in the 12th century. It is an absolutely quiet place jutting out into the sea, with one of the most striking rocky coastlines.

At Pollara, there is a beautiful bay with a sunken crater and a Faraglione that must be seen at least once in a lifetime.

Rinella with its black sand beach is also famous for the very high possibility of spotting dolphins and turtles.

Lingua is a hamlet near Santa Marina Salina that takes its name from a small lake from which salt was extracted.

Finally, Leni is a very small town famous for its wine production.