The Aeolian islands (Isole Eolie) are a group of attractive islands in the Tyrrheanian Sea about 25-50km north of Sicily in Italy. Formerly off the beaten track, this diverse group of volcanic islands is becoming more popular and can be very busy during July and August.

The Islands

• Lipari - the main island and the main town (called Lipari as well) is the transport hub, with plenty of hotels and makes a good base.
• Vulcano - right next to Lipari, this island is dominated by the Gran Cratere volcano cone giving off clouds of sulphurous gas. This peak gives great views. The island is popular for it's beaches and mud baths.
• Salina is lush and hilly - great for a relaxing walk. Some of the film Il Postino was shot here.
• Panarea - a smaller, upmarket island with great views across to Stromboli.
• Stromboli - the most remote of the islands, it is little more than a volcano rising out of the sea. Popular for trips out at night to see magma spurting out of the cone.
• Filcudi and Alicudi lie to the West and are less visited, although apparently pretty too.