Arrive in Taormina, idyllically perched atop a rocky promontory high above the sea. Settle into your hotel and stretch your legs with an exploration of this magnificent city. You will soon see why Taormina was an integral stop on the Grand Tour; brimming with mediaeval charm and breath-taking views around every corner. Take time to visit the perfectly horseshoe shaped Teatro Greco theatre. Built in the 3rd century BC it still hosts concerts throughout the summer months and, if you are lucky, you may be able to watch a concert in arguably one of the most spectacular settings in the world.

In the evening stroll to Corso Unbertol and soak in the atmosphere of the friendly pedestrianised area with its pretty clock tower, cathedral and ornate fountain. A perfect spot to enjoy a spot of dinner in one of the inviting cafes.

No trip to Sicily is complete without a visit to Mount Etna. Today you will get to scale the mighty volcano on a guided hike with a local guide to really bring this active landscape to life. After breakfast you will transfer to Piano Provenzano, where you will meet your guide and begin your walk through the lush vegetation, which flourishes in the fertile volcanic soils, leading you to lava flows both old and new to discover a lava cave carved into the mountain. The almost continuous eruptive activity of Mount Etna continues to influence volcanology on the island and is essential for enriching the soils of the vineyards in the area. When you have finished your walk you will get to sample the divine wines produced on Etnas slopes with an included lunch at a local winery.

In the afternoon you will have the opportunity to visit the impressive Alcantara Gorge with its strange rock formations as the ancient lava flows met the freezing waters of the Alcantara River. The perfect spot for a paddle to cool off after a day exploring before heading back to Taormina for a second night in this ancient town.

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and the opportunity to enjoy the final sights of Taormina before taking the train to Milazzo, where you will board the Hydrofoil to neighbouring Lipari, the largest of the Aeolian Islands. Check into your accommodation and stretch off your sea legs with a stroll to visit the dominating citadel perched high on the outcrop. The perfect vantage spot for keeping watch over the harbour below and the heart of the old town. Alternatively, meander through the colourful streets of Lipari town laced with elegant historic houses with traditional balconies and shops selling the local fare; capers and Malvasia wine. We recommend enjoying a coffee stop at Marina Corta, the historic harbour where you will find fishermen playing cards in the piazza and children playing in the cooling waters, what better place to soak in the atmosphere.

In the evening, enjoy dinner in one of the many local restaurants where the catch of the day will no doubt be the star of the menu amongst locals and visitors alike.

Feeling rested today you get to explore the island, leaving the hustle and bustle of Lipari’s main port in favour of your interests, whether that be history or secluded coves and perfect beaches. Today you have a choice of three walks to choose from depending on which best suits your mood:

Option 1: Explore the southern tip of the island and Mt Guardia. Leaving Lipari your walk takes you first to an observatory accompanied by fantastic views along the coast, to neighbouring Vulcano, and the rugged cliffs of Faraglioni. The second part of your walk returns you to the old town of Lipari where you can soak in the fantastic historical architecture and enjoy the many cafes.

11km / 470m ascent / 470m descent

Option 2: Walk from Acquacalda to Canneto. Catching the local bus to Acuacalda your route will take you along the beautiful coast hopping from one beach to another as you meander through the Mediterranean scrub which comes alive with colour in the spring. Along your way you will discover pumice caves and reach a magnificent panoramic viewpoint (346m) before descending into Canneto to end your day with a dip in the ocean before heading back to Lipari.

5km / 350m ascent / 350m descent

Option 3: Walk from Quattropani to Lipari. Taking the bus to Quattropani this walk will take you to explore the western coast of the island for an opportunity to delve into the wild side of the island. Making your way along the rocky coast all the time with breath taking views, you will reach the San Calogero thermal baths, thought to be the oldest spa in the Med. Sadly, this spa is not suitable for bathing in today but it offers a fantastic insight into the islands history. When you have finished exploring your route continues through humble villages and fascinating fumaroles to Lipari.

14km / 586m ascent / 950m descent

Today you have a choice to explore of neighbouring islands; Vulcano, Salina or Panarea. Each island brings its own unique experience, plus, if you would prefer to stay on Lipari you also have the option undertaking one of yesterday’s walks.

Option 1: Vulcano Island, around the Gran Cratere. The small island of Vulcano packs a punch providing an almost lunar landscape for you to explore as you make your way up to the Gran Cratere (great crater) from which its emits its famous yellow sulphurous smoke. Reaching the top you are greeted by magnificent 360degree views of the Aeolian archipelago. Descending from the crater you can enjoy a changing landscape as you walk through the contrasting greenery which flourishes in the fertile soils, making your way towards to vibrant blue sea below. Taking the afternoon ferry you return to Lipari for a coffee before dinner.

Please note: should the crater walk be closed for safety an alternative coastal walk on the island is possible.

6 km / 290m ascent / 290m descent

Option 2: Just a short hydrofoil away lies the island of Salina with its magical atmosphere. Taking the bus to Castello of Pollara you will hike along the western coast towards the pastel-coloured houses of Rinella. Along the way is a challenging climb but your efforts will be rewarded with views of the Filicudi and Alicudi islands before descending into Rinella where you can enjoy refreshments at the pretty waterfront before heading back to Salina for the hydrofoil to Lipari.

9km / 430m ascent / 430m descent

Option 3: Circumnavigate the small island of Panarea. Taking the hydrofoil to Panarea, the furthest of the islands, this route will take you to circumnavigate around this tiny island. Hiking over the ridge of the ancient volcano you will have the vantage over entire Aeolian archipelago. If you wish you can add a short detour to visit the islands prehistoric village dating back to the Bronze Age.

7 km / 487m ascent / 487m descent

Today you say farewell to Lipari and set sail for Stromboli, home to possibly the most captivating of the Aeolian Islands, thanks to its perfectly shaped volcano dominating its skyline. Arriving on the island you can stroll through the idyllic narrow white-washed streets to your hotel. Walking on Stromboli is a one of a kind experience, best enjoyed in the evening when the volcano lights up the sky with its theatrical eruption of lava. Spend your afternoon relaxing in the town and enjoy the evening show on a guided walk to the summit just in time for sunset. Your guide will return you to the town where you can end your evening with a late dinner or glass of wine as you chat about your exhilarating walk.

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before taking your final hydrofoil of the week, to Milazzo where you will travel to Catania by train or bus to spend your final evening on Sicily. You will have the afternoon to explore this ancient port city, steeped in history. This is a city packed with energy, bars and real life activity. Take time to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and visit Piazza Duomo where the impressive Baroque Cathedral di Sant Agata stands proud dressed in Baroque grandeur. Alternatively get lost in the hullabaloo of the La Pescheria fish market and enjoy a frozen ‘granita’ in one of the local cafes.

In the evening, enjoy one of the many delightful restaurants in the city where you can enjoy the local delicacies and raise a toast to a great week of walking.

Sadly, today draws your Aeolian adventure to a close as you enjoy a relaxed breakfast before making your onward journey. If you aren’t quite ready for your holiday to end yet, it is possible to arrange additional nights in Catania. Ask our sales team for details.