Sightseeing in Salina Island - what to see. Complete travel guide

Salina is the second largest island in the Aeolian archipelago, a world-famous center of fine wines production; caper is another hallmark of the island. The island is interesting for tourists, first of all, because of variety of natural attractions. Its guests have an opportunity to stroll through the picturesque rainforest and see lovely vineyards. Historical sites have also survived on the island.

Salina is an island of volcanic origin; there are two volcanoes, Monte Fossa delle Felci and Monte Porri, in the center of it. The height of the first is 965 meters, and the second is 860 meters. Travelers climb to the hills covered with dense vegetation and find it amazing. The tops of volcanoes provide good views not only of the neighborhood of Salina, but also surrounding islands. It’s also worth noting that slopes are covered with fertile volcanic soil, so there is innumerable variety of plants.

The picturesque town of Santa Marina is to the south of the island. That’s an attractive location for walking and exploring the culture of locals. The main symbol of the town is a small salt lake, the unique natural object used by locals during hundreds of years. Salt from the lake is regularly collected and used for pickling capers grown on local plantations. In shops, travelers can purchase small jars with capers, which will be the most symbolic gifts. It’s believed that the unique salt lake gave its name to the island; mining has begun in the age of the Roman Empire. Ruins of Roman villas found next to the lake prove that. All those interested can walk along these unique archaeological areas. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The ancient Sanctuary of the Madonna del Terzito is one of the historic sights. Its construction was completed in 1622; the church was built on the foundations of the ruined Roman temple. Its walls keep many interesting religious artifacts, including a statue of the patron saint of the island. History lovers will enjoy a stroll around the neighborhood of Santa Marina, where Roman tombs can be found. Some parts of the acropolis are now available for public access attracting hundreds of curious tourists to these places.

The most visited cultural venue of the island is the Ethno-Anthropological Museum. It boasts an extensive collection of exhibits dedicated to cultural traditions of the indigenous population, as well as the diversity and features of the local environment. Salina Island will be a real boon for travelers who can’t imagine their rest without scenic walks. A lot of interesting sightseeing tours are conducted there; tourists can visit picturesque vineyards and plantations of capers, and look inside the old farms and wineries. Every local town features amazing landmarks and artisan shops, miniature colorful markets and priceless historical items.

Travelers, who decide to visit this picturesque island, should take into consideration several important details and peculiarities. Salina doesn’t have its own airport or helicopter pads because the island is tiny and has a complex terrain. It is possible to reach it only by boat – ships regularly sail from Sicily to Salina. Don’t expect to find any luxurious hotels as well – they are simply not present despite the fact that more and more travelers visit this island every year. In larger towns, there are only several small hotels, each of which can serve up to 30 visitors.

Houses of local people are an alternative to hotels. Many local people are glad to rent their houses and villas out to travelers. There are not that many comfortable beaches on the island because the coastline is mostly rocky. However, a few beaches, which are available to travelers, are incredibly beautiful. Some of them have basalt platforms, and some beaches are covered with black volcanic sand. Salina will surely appeal to fans of scuba diving as there are many magnificent underwater grottos and caves not far from the coast.