City break in Ustica Island. Active leisure ideas for Ustica Island - attractions, recreation and nightlife

Ustica attracts a large number of divers every year. This is not surprising, because international competitions in scuba diving are held here. Sportsmen come here to win the prize and ordinary divers visit the competition to enjoy the rich flora and fauna of the underworld and explore the underwater monuments.

The island is close to Asia and it was visited by medieval pirates, that’s why underwater excursions to the sunken ships are very popular on Ustica. Underwater photographers will find captivating things here. You can see a giant sea bass, shoals of glowing salps and Mediterranian barracudas underwater. The most popular diving spots are Secca del Colombara, Grotta dei Gamberi, Punta Falconara, Scoglio del Medico and Punta Galera. There are several diving centres on the island, you can rent all the necessary equipment. Moreover, there is an opportunity to undergo training and get an international diving certificate.

Ustica is famous for its grottos. You can reach them on foot or you can take a bike and go from Santa Maria to the South. Be sure to visit the most famous Grotta Azzurra or the Blue Grotto. It is known for its unsurpassed beauty. Crystal-clear sea bottom, good visibility, stalactites, stalagmites, and the blue glow will not leave you indifferent. Those who love to take pictures should visit Capo Falconara cape, which is considered to be the most panoramic place on Ustica. Be sure to visit Monte Guardia dei Turchi mountain and climb 248 meters above the sea, where you can enjoy astonishing views and see nearby islands. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

You can go for a boat trip around Ustica and reach the local grottoes and bays. It is a very exciting time spending, especially if you combine the usual sightseeing tour with a trip to one of the nearby Islands. If you are fond of fishing, there is the opportunity to fish from the shore or in the open sea, but you should remember that the waters of Ustica is a state protected area, and there are some restrictions. If you love marine life, but there is no desire to dive, you should visit the Spalmatore Aquarium with a large collection of the Tyrrhenian flora and fauna species.

Snorkeling is a good way to explore the underwater world. You may visit one of the local beaches. For example, Cala Sidoti, Punta dello Spalmatore and al Faro. There are secluded beaches in remote bays, but be careful, because you can meet people, who prefer to sunbathe naked. Walk along the streets of Santa Maria and enjoy the Italian atmosphere. See the houses of the islanders with their unique style, typical for that exact part of the archipelago. And finally, have a great time at the local parties, which are regularly held in Ustica and Santa Maria. Moreover, if you visit the island in high season, there are parties in all the settlements.