8 days in Sicily & Aeolian Islands

Rich in history, art, music, culture and gastronomy, there is no better place to begin your yachting adventure than in Palermo. Sicily’s largest city is brimming with everything from 12th Century architecture to grand palaces, each as complex and intriguing as the last. One of the most famed of the selection is Cappella Palatina – an extraordinary chapel filled with glittering gold mosaics, marble floors and wooden muqarnas ceilings. After a morning spent marvelling at the masterpiece, you’ll be ready to indulge in gourmet fare from one of the many restaurants or cafes. Aranci and Pasta alla Norma are two dishes you simply must try while in town, and a dinner at Villa Costanza is perfect for those wanting to dine with a view of the gulf, city and beyond.

Sail into Filicudi and you may never want to leave again. Given the fact this island takes slightly longer to reach than the other six Aeolian islands, there’s plenty of space, peace and quiet for you to enjoy. Where it lacks in touristy crowds, it makes up in romance, beauty and culture. Cruise through the warm waters of Grotta del Bue marino, cool off at Spiaggia delle Piramidi or hike through the rugged Zucco Grande. The island’s most delectable restaurant is undoubtedly Hotel La Canna, where the friendly staff will make you feel right at home from the very first moment you arrive.

Just off the northern coast of Sicily, you’ll find Salina. The second largest island in the Aeolian archipelago is a place of raw scenic beauty, with dramatic volcanic cliffs plunging into the sea, sleepy villages amidst verdant mountains and colourful fishing boats on pebbly beaches. As one of the select few familiar with Salina, you’ll have most of the lush island to yourself and plentiful opportunities to enjoy a limone granita, raw fish dish or octopus salad with just you and your loved ones. After an utterly delightful spread, you can walk off your meal on a stroll through the port of Santa Marina Salina, where you’ll find plenty to tempt yourself with in the boutiques and ceramic stores.

Anchor at Lipari and you’ll soon discover its the liveliest destination in the Aeolian islands. Even before reaching the land, you’ll see the attractive harbour area is home to more cafes, bars and restaurants than you’ll possibly be able to try during your time here.  After exploring the waterfront, you can walk up the long flight of stairs to reach the citadel – the historic fortified part of Lipari where you can find the town’s iconic cathedral and museum. From the fortified walls surrounding this area, you can also enjoy lovely views over the harbour.  A trip in September brings the added benefit of being able to attend the Sagra del Pesce (fish festival) and honour the star or Aeolian cuisine.

For an elegant island escape, charter your yacht to Panarea. From incredible beaches and breathtaking natural vistas to stunning historic attractions, there’s even a vibrant nightlife to experience. When you reach the Port of San Pietro, you can explore the narrow streets that spiral out from the centre or make a stop by the Church of San Pietro to pay homage to the region’s rich fishing history. There’s also a small yet intriguing museum in the city centre, which shares the history of the island back to the Bronze Age. After a day full of exploring, there’s no better way to top it off than with a sundowner of the terrace of Hotel Raja. From here, you’ll have an uninterrupted view of the island, bustling port, ocean and beyond.

Even well before you sail into the harbour, you’ll understand why Stromboli is affectionately known as “lighthouse of the Mediterranean”. It’s steady towering glow is paired with a plethora of natural beauty to attract attention from far and wide. For those feeling adventurous, no trip to the island is complete without the two-hour hike up to the mountain peak. Here, you can enjoy azure views as far as the eye can see. Then, head back down to the town of Piscita to cool down with an ocean-dip or lazy afternoon on an all-day lounge. With the luxury of your own boat, be sure to visit the dark volcanic sands of Ficogrande beach while you’re here too.

Idyllically perched on a rocky promontory high above the sea, your trip into the Taormina harbour will be one to remember. Anchor your boat close to the port and you’ll be right in the centre of everything. From the grandeur of the Greco-Roman Teatro Antico di Taormina to the charm of  Corso Umberto (Taormina’s main street) there is something new to explore around every corner. Take your time in pursuing the boutiques and treat yourself to a baked good in the afternoon from one of the town’s many family-run cafes. However you spend the day, you’re guaranteed to be absolutely lost in the charm of it all.

Catania has a magnetic pull. It’s a city packed with chic bars, abundant energy and an earthy spirit. It’s known by locals and travellers as the island’s “foodie” city, where you can find delectable treats from local marketplaces and fine-dining restaurants alike.  The seaside location means their speciality is undoubtedly seafood, but the arancini at Serafino Arancini Espressi will give even the freshest oysters a run for their money.