Typical Aeolian House, a 5-minute walk from the sea, Casa Francesca

Board the ferry in Milazzo and set sail for Vulcano, one of the seven islands of the Sicilian Aeolian archipelago. Or take the overnight ferry from Naples; either way, getting here is a wonderful adventure. The house is white and square with bright blue shutters in a typical Aeolian style—delightfully simple and reminiscent of a Greek island home. It clings to the hillside with a breathtaking view of the sea stretching out in front and is surrounded by a tropical garden. Inside, a minimalist style with a touch of nautical shabby chic is a delight and never takes your eyes off those views for a moment. Step into the bright, open-concept corner kitchen where the chef can whip up a storm; you’ll dine on the long terraces, one of which is covered. The living room features a white sofa and armchair, books to borrow, and children’s games. There are two serene bedrooms (one double, one twin) on this level and one below, accessible via an outdoor staircase and featuring its own bathroom. There are plenty of active things to do here: hiking on the volcano, scuba diving, or renting a boat to explore the other islands. The house is the ideal destination for independent travelers.
To get to Casa Francesca, take the road to GELSO that climbs up to the volcano and then descends back to the sea, with Sicily and Mount Etna in front of you. You’ll pass two beaches on your left: Cannitello Beach and Asino (Donkey) Beach. Just past the Gaetano restaurant on your right, the house is on the left after the bend.

It’s best to drive down, turn around, and then pull into the house on the right. There’s a white gate.

The beach is just a short walk down. At the dock below, the zodiac from Asino Beach will pick you up for free, and I recommend you try the best pizza and Aeolian-style salad there. I also recommend grabbing some lounge chairs and a beach umbrella. The restaurant down below, “DA PINA,” is the best on the island, and I suggest you make a reservation right away! On the menu: the house antipasto and swordfish rolls—but EVERYTHING is delicious. “Chez Gaetano” is another absolutely fantastic restaurant! And it’s all just a short walk from the house!
A stroll to the lighthouse is also highly recommended!
At the harbor, you absolutely must try the granitas and ice cream at Remigio’s, as well as his cannoli and cassata; cocktails for adults on the “Mari del Sud” terrace and for young people at “Baia Nigra” (also for younger kids during the day), and a more upscale option at “Therasia.” Aperitifs are also available at “Sables Noirs.”

Nightclub at the castle for young people!!!

Raw fish and fried seafood at “The King of the Fish”—expensive but delicious. Head to “Conti” for Sicilian schiacchiate and pizza right by the water. At “Maurizio” for Sicilian cuisine and a super-friendly atmosphere!

To rent Zodiacs and motorboats, visit “Tonino” +39 335 5859790, on Ponente Beach. I recommend a tour of the island, including the Pool of Venus and the Horse Cave, as well as a trip to Cannitello Beach—not far from where we live—and visits to other islands like Lingua, Salina (home to the world’s best granitas), and Pollara.

See you soon!!!!