Cefalu is situated on the north-east of Sicily's coast and is about 70 kilometers from the eastern edge of Palermo, while Catania is about 180 kilometers north-west. A charter from Cefalu is often considered as part of a Sicilian route as it is one of the undiscovered gems of the Mediterranean. Cefalo has a great beach and old, winding medieval streets, with lovely restaurants overlooking the rugged coast, serving lovely southern Sicilian cuisine. Cefalu is home to an impressive Norman cathedral with its Byzantine mosaics and imposing twin towers, making it one of the most impressive in Europe.
Lush Lipari is the largest of the Aeolian Islands and is home to beautiful churches, intriguing museums, and an excellent area of beautiful beaches. Lipari has a bustling pace with its picture-perfect streets, lively marina, and wealth of restaurants with world-renowned chefs cooking up a seafood storm. Its volcanic origins have left behind steaming thermal waters and fumaroles. Must-see spots include the Castel of Lipari, the archeological museum, the frescoed cathedral, and the Corso Vittorio Emanuele. Outside of the town, the island is home to hikes and beaches. It's also a popular spot for heading out on Stromboli excursions.
Panarea is the ideal destination for a luxurious island getaway. Everyone has heard of Capri, but in Italy however, the locals know of Panarea. During the summer, VIPs, actors, and Italy's affluent youth flock to this glamorous little island for yachting vacations, romantic getaways, and late-night parties. Even though Panarea has a rich history, including the remains of a Bronze Age village, tourism has not affected it much and it is still an authentic destination.
The Aeolian Islands are some of the most magnificant natural wonders in the Mediterranean Sea. Comprised of seven volcanic islands scattered around the shores of Sicily, this rich archipelago includes Lipari, Vulcano, Salina, Panarea, Stromboli, Filicudi, and Alicudi. Each island boasts its own bright character and has plenty to offer the discerning yacht charter crowd. From scenic hikes to dramatic canyons, archeological sites, splendid museums, craters, and fumaroles that still spit steam and heat, and vineyards with fabulous farm-to-table produce, sea stacks, and secret coves with luminous blues - the Aeolian Islands are the gift that keeps giving.
Stromboli is the northernmost island of this archipelago, which can be easily reached from mainland Sicily or from any of the other Aeolian Islands. It is the only island in the world with a permanently active volcano that juts sharply out of the sea, making it a unique charter destination. Because of the small size of this remote island, land transport is not available, making it an idyllic, unspoilt destination, excellent for exploring.
In the north of Sicily, part of the Aeolian Islands is the ancient island of Salina. This little gem has been inhabited since the 4th century and is an incredibly scenic spot for dropping anchor and soaking up the stunning views of the island's dramatic landscape. On Salina, you will find sleepy villages, hills adorned in wild vines, and verdant mountains rising to meet the sky. Days are spent sipping wine at the local wineries, strolling the pretty villages, shopping in the boutiques in Santa Marina Salina, and dining on the finest Sicilian dishes.
Located at the southern most end of the Aeolian islands, Vulcano Island is named after the Roman god of fire and is of course home to an active volcano which has had frequent eruptions. Don't be put off by the smell of sulphur - it has fantastic hiking paths, beaches that are characterised by dark, volcanic sand and mud baths which are said to have beneficial properties.
Catania is located on the east coast of Sicily and is a popular charter yacht destination. Situated at the foot of Mount Etna, Catania offers an additional edge that can't be found in any other tourist destinations in the area. This beautiful Italian city has many famous attractions and sights that will definitely make your holiday in Italy an experience that is truly unforgettable.