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Aeolian Islands - AlicudiThe ancient Ericusa (now Alicudi) is a living still life, as beautiful as it is peaceful. The island, a stratum-complex volcano, is named for the
fragrant heather that covers a large portion of the small, 5.2 sq. kilometer island.
It is sailing along with a gentle breeze and glistening waters that one truly begins to appreciate the wild beauty of Alicudi. As you sail
around, you'll find scenery that constantly changes, lending the impression that Alicudi might be bigger than it is. An amazing amount of foliage grows
along the island; from a boat, you'll spot terraced slopes covered by heather and prickly pear, high coasts and cliffs with impressions of both black
rock and reddish conglomerate, narrow ravines, deep, wide valleys and a succession of high precipices that demand the respect of nothing if not the
highest majesty. (The two most popular day excursions coming from Lipari are those to Timpone della Montagnola or Filo dell'Arpa.)
With all the peace and quiet, you'd never know that geologists routinely cover the island, particularly the southwestern side, to take samples
from the small volcanoes that are now nothing more that slight, stagnant pools. Italy has seen no recent volcanic activity on Alicudi for more than 100
years, yet volcanic professionals still covet the island due to its untouched nature and detailed preservation. Should you happen to stumble onto one of
these geological expeditions during your trip, be sure to stop and take a look; the process in which they take samples is rather fascinating especially
for small children that love anything heavy and complicated-looking.
Most of the time, the majority of the people on the island are its residents. On such a small island, one would not expect many permanent
inhabitants. On the jagged, steep Western side of the island, this is generally the case; for at least 75 years, no residents have inhabited this area.
In fact, today few tourists venture to this side of the island on foot. Residents of Alicudi are those whose families have been there for decades, and
you can see evidence of their simple lifestyles along the Eastern slope of the island, which is comprised of heather-covered terraces and dotted with
small, unique-looking homes. Peeking through the homes and off the terraces is the Church of St. Bartolomeo. Standing at the base of the slope at sunset
provides some amazing photography; the soft, glowing lights of the church with the cliffs as a backdrop is a sight you don't want to miss. From the top,
you can catch astonishing views of Filicudi, Salina and Lipari.
It is on the Eastern side of the island that you'll find the Serro della Farcona, enclosed by tall precipices on each side. You can also find the
Timpone delle Femmine, but to access either of these, you're in for a journey: Both are situated in rather inaccessible positions. If you're in for a
hike and a climb, you'll find these most interesting and rather historical as well: It was here that women took refuge from intruders during the Saracen
invasions.
Day trips and other boating excursions usually land at Alicudi to take in some of the most gorgeous scenery and aromatic serenity around. If
you're anxious to get off the boat, do so. While the boat tours circling the island are certainly breathtaking, the best way to capture the simple
elegance and natural essence of the island is to step off the boat. Should you not make it off, however, note that many never actually get to see
Alicudi - a visit, even from a distance, it worth the trip.
This article was written by staff writer Sabrina Friedman.
Find hotels in the Aeolian Islands.
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