If you asked me what my first priority is when seeking out the ideal getaway destination, the answer would be pretty straightforward. 

“Is it an Island?”

Something about being surrounded by sparkling seas makes me feel absolutely untouchable. A million miles away from any stress, expectations or burdens. To me, Islands have a paradisiac quality of perfect stillness and insulation that inevitably makes me daydream about spending all my years there. 

The Island of Salina is largely to blame for my near-obsessive preoccupation with islands. The hidden jewel of the Tyrrhenian sea, Salina is part of Italy’s lesser-known Aeolian Island chain. It’s a small but geographically imposing place, with twin-mountains that jut dramatically out of the gentle, sun-kissed waves, and stratified cliffs that tumble into the cobalt waters below. 

Despite the geological drama of the island, it boasts a tranquil upland farming region, as well as several protected coves and idyllic beaches. Its handful of tiny seaside townships are easy-going and charming, and are home to a relaxed but unwaveringly hospitable people, and rarely an overabundance of holidaymakers.

Read on for a comprehensive guide to this Paradise-on-Earth to start planning your post-pandemic island getaway!

How to Get to Salina

Santa Marina Salina is the island’s second-largest town and busiest port. Ferries arrive daily from the island’s neighbours in the Aeolian archipelago, and the Sicilian cities of Palermo, Milazzo and Messina. On mainland Italy, ferries set sail several times a week from the ports of Reggio Calabria, Vibo Valentia, Salerno and Napoli. 

I would advise first travelling to the port of Lipari of the Aeolians, as it is the most practical base for experiencing the archipelago. After that, you can head on to Salina from Lipari on any one of the multiple ferries per day. Check out this website for a comprehensive timetable.

Approaching Santa Marina by ferry, you’ll be struck by the beauty of the island in its contrast: Gleaming, white and yellow terraces awash with brambles of striking pink, purple and orange bougainvillea, all nestled together on the green slopes of an imposing volcano. 

Where to Stay in Salina: Hotel Signum

While there is certainly no shortage of premium accommodation on Salina, the Hotel Signum in the nearby town of Malfa is the pinnacle of the island’s Mediterranean luxury. Offering an array of lodgings, from single and double suites with mountain and sea views to ultra-luxe ‘villa’ suites, Hotel Signum blends intelligent design with historic Aeolian architecture.

The hotel is built around a gorgeous central courtyard with a variety of features, and ample space to laze in the noonday sun by the sprawling pool, or bask in the citrus perfume of the lemon garden.

Hotel Signum’s in-house ristorante e bar express the finest flavours of Sicilian land and sea, with a focus on frutti di mare and the renowned produce of the region’s orchards and fields. 

The hotel also boasts one of Italy’s most celebrated spas, with treatments that include salt-therapy, facials and massage, as well as geothermal baths where you can luxuriate in the primordial power that brought this picturesque island out of the sea.

What to Do in Salina

If you’re eager to get out and explore Salina’s dramatic landscape and coast, there is plenty to see and many ways to get around.

If you’d like to visit the charming, romantic townships of the island—from Santa Marina to Rinella on the sea, or Valdichiesa nestled in the uplands between the twin peaks—it’s best to hire a scooter or small car from the port. The narrow roadways of the island snake across its cliffs, so be prepared to take it slow and steady while taking in the breathtaking vistas. Check out this website for car and scooter rentals out of the town of Malfa.

Alternatively, if you’re looking to explore on foot, the island is threaded by numerous trekking paths along the coast and up to the volcanoes. The summit tracks lead through the lush vineyards and famous caper fields of the island, up to serene pine forests that spread over ancient lava flows, catching morning mists and clouds. The tracks are dotted with impressive vantage points over Salina as well as the neighbouring volcanic island, Stromboli. This can be a long journey, but one that you won’t soon forget.

Circumnavigating the island by boat is likewise a memorable experience. The island is girt by dramatic cliffs and an impressive rock-bridge that juts out beyond the island and into the sea. Numerous pebbled coves can be found along the coast, so don’t hesitate to drop anchor and dive into the crystal clear waters below. Visit Nautica Santa Marina in the port for a variety of self-chartered vessels, or check out Silver Star Yachting for luxury charters around the island and beyond.

Whether you’re planning to island-hop across this picturesque archipelago or spend the entire summer in intoxicating tranquillity and beauty, the island of Salina belongs at the top of your itinerary. Just one visit and you’re bound to keep coming back, time and time again. I don't know about you, but I'm already planning your post-pandemic trip to paradise. 

Looking to travel somewhere closer to home? Consider these amazing ski accomodations in New Zealand.

Jacob Hall:

Jacob is a writer who loves travel, beach days, and speaking foreign languages. Jacob has his own blog, Democratista, where he talks about society, history, and political economy.

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