Arco dell'Elefante, Pantelleria

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Pantelleria

Halfway between Trapani and Tunisia, this volcanic outcrop is Sicily's largest offshore island. Originally named Bent-el-Riah ('daughter of the wind' in Arabic) for the year-round winds that buffet it, Pantelleria is characterised by jagged lava rock formations, steaming fumaroles and mud baths. The island's unique agricultural traditions, characterised by low-slung caper bushes, dwarf grapevines and olive trees laid out on terraces between dry stone walls, earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 2014. There are no true beaches, but Pantelleria's gorgeous, secluded coves are perfect for snorkelling, diving and boat excursions.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Lago Specchio di Venere

Lago Specchio di Venere

Just inland from Pantelleria's north coast, the iridescent waters of this volcanic lake are a stunning sight. Along the southern lakeshore, natural hot…

Balata dei Turchi

Balata dei Turchi

Those willing to brave the steep and treacherous 3km descent on an unpaved road will be rewarded with one of Pantelleria's most beautiful swimming spots,…

Parco Archeologico dei Sesi

Parco Archeologico dei Sesi

This archaeological site on Pantelleria's northwestern coast preserves the remains of several mound-shaped Megalithic stone necropolises known as sesi…

Arco dell'Elefante

Arco dell'Elefante

This sweeping natural arch of rugged grey stone is reputed to look like an elephant's trunk – and indeed it does! To get here, first head for the twin…

Cala Tramontana

Cala Tramontana

One of Pantelleria's most popular swimming spots is this small rocky cove, equipped with a wooden sundeck for bathers and backed by a cluster of dammusi …

Cala Levante

Cala Levante

Rugged cliffs and grand Mediterranean vistas combine to make this picturesque cove on Pantelleria's east coast one of the island's most popular swimming…

Museo Vulcanologico

Museo Vulcanologico

This tiny free museum near the Punta Spadillo lighthouse has a fascinating collection of displays in Italian and English, covering everything from…

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Pantelleria

Pantelleria is a “ black” pearl of rare beauty, an elegant, mysterious and wild Mediterranean island. It is very close to Africa, but the island represents a fascinating and irresistible side of Sicily.

Here are 10 things you shouldn’t miss if you visit Pantelleria!

  • Seaside promenade

Pantelleria can be reached by flight or by sea from Trapani . We take a tour of the town in the island’s northern part.

The journey begins with a stroll through the ancient, narrow and cobbled streets. Our hearts beat with a new rhythm, slow and relaxed like the atmosphere around us.

Markets on the streets display colourful and picturesque handicrafts. We see the wooden boats painted blue near the old harbour .

There is a timeless, exotic and familiar beauty in the air. Strolling along the waterfront , we notice the two most symbolic buildings of the town.

  • The Castle of Pantelleria

Pantelleria Castle is also called Barbacane Castle due to a misunderstanding. It is near the Old Port , overlooking Piazzale Almanza and Via Borgo Italia .

Castello di Pantelleria

Chiesa e Castello di Pantelleria – Luce61, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The castle is an intriguing and imposing structure built with lava stone. It was built during the Byzantine era, but it is hard to determine its exact origin. What is certain is that it was a focal point of the island’s historical and political changes.

When the Normans arrived on the island, they built a Donjon (a typical defensive structure consisting of a fortified tower). Inside the Tower, there is a cross carved in the stone. It represents the first symbol of the Christian faith after three centuries of Arab domination.

The most significant change to the castle’s structure occurred in 1535. That year, King Charles V ordered the construction of 37 towers throughout Sicily to counter enemy incursions. He further strengthened the fortress structure.

Under Spanish rule , part of the castle became a prison. We know that also Ferdinand IV of Bourbon was interested in Pantelleria Castle. The king had the bell tower built, with the clock still standing.

We visit the inside to access the old castle dungeons and the round tower.

Don’t forget to enjoy the breathtaking view over the harbour.

  • The SS Salvatore Mother Church

It is a unique worship site. The appearance of the Chiesa Madre del Santissimo Salvatore has an architecture that is very different from all other Sicilian churches.

This Church is called “ Matrice ” by the town’s inhabitants. It is a typical “modern church”. In its structure, it connects the architectural and natural elements of the island with the Christian ones. Its aesthetics recall the dammusi , the ancient rural dwellings typical of Pantelleria. The predominant colour is light blue, which evokes the colour of the sea surrounding the island.

Along the whole façade of the Church, there are symmetrical holes. At the top of the building is an Arab dome , behind which is the bell tower . This one, too, is built in the same style as the façade. The Church inside has modern features and several works of art are exhibited, giving a classic touch to the rooms.

  • On the archaeological traces of the past

Pantelleria has a central position in the Mediterranean sea. That is why it has always been a crossroads of trades, a meeting point of civilisations, a military outpost and a territory where criminals were confined.

The island’s history dates back to prehistoric times, probably due to the abundant presence of obsidian . The oldest human settlement was some 5000 years. The first population of which there are traces are the Sesioti , a community of farmers and fishermen. They built their village on an inlet overlooking the sea, defended by a lava stone wall. You don’t need a time machine to visit the site; it will be sufficient to reach Contrada Mursia .

The houses and Necropolis of the Sesioti are very well preserved. Characteristics of these cemeteries are the extraordinary megalithic constructions known as “ Sesi ”.

Pantelleria was first conquered by the Greeks and then by the Phoenicians , who built the harbour and started the cultivation of tree vines .

Pantelleria had a leading role in another chapter of Mediterranean history. During the Second Punic War , the Romans conquered Cossyra, the ancient city founded by Carthage in the second half of the 13th century BC.

On the hills of San Marco and Santa Teresa , we visit the Punic-Roman acropolis . Here we see traces of the forum, the city walls, the public buildings and the cisterns for water supply, covered in cocciopesto. The three imperial portraits of Caesar, Antonia Minor and Titus were found on the same site and are on exhibition at Pantelleria Castle .

  • Pantelleria Bays

Before diving into the sea, let’s take a boat trip around Pantelleria to admire exclusive and striking views that we cannot see from land.

Pantelleria is an island that offers happy holidays to families and children. Shallow waters, smooth rocks, natural pools. Depending on our needs, we will find the best beaches. Of course, the aim is to visit as many as possible.

Cala Gadir is famous for its underwater archaeology route and because it is easily accessible from the town centre. But the most famous beach on the island is Bue Marino , a perfect destination for families and children .

Arco dell'elefante - Pantelleria

Arco dell’elefante – ph I. Mannarano

In Nika , the water temperature changes suddenly. We can take an unforgettable bath in warm sea waters. And if we are looking for natural wellness , we will find all the information we need.

  • Pantelleria Lakes

Specchio di Venere – Ph. Mannarano

The Laghetto delle Ondine is a small lake between the rocks. Its waters come from the Mediterranean Sea. It is in Punta Spadillo , below the island’s lighthouse, and is easily reachable by car. Here there is a natural basin fed by the waves, and it is possible to bathe even when the sea is rough. The water temperature is warm all year round.

  • Trekking in Pantelleria

One of the best ways to discover Pantelleria is on foot, with the slow pace of trekking . To explore the island’s secrets, we have to walk in the countryside . It is here that we find the typical Pantelleria gardens and dammusi . While walking, we can come across ancient archaeological sites and underwater archaeological routes . It is also possible to visit wineries and admire breathtaking scenery such as the famous Arch of the Elephant . This natural arch is on the island’s eastern coast.

Hiking - Ph Mannarano

Hiking – Ph Mannarano

On the southern side of the island, there’s the Balata dei Turchi . This magnific inlet is located among dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters and wonderful seabed. Its name let us think of the Scala dei Turchi . Indeed, La Balata dei Turchi was also used as a landing place by Turkish pirates. The road to reach it is long and steep, but it is well worth the effort.

  • Giardini Panteschi

Exploring the island of Pantelleria, we will notice the Pantelleria Gardens . They are ancient constructions built to protect plants and crops from the strong winds blowing on the Pelagie Islands. The gardens are made of lava stone and have a circular plan. They are built dry  and the art of dry stone walling is a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Depending on their function and use, Pantelleria gardens can be up to three metres high and contain citrus fruits, vines or dates. Among the most famous is the Pantesco Garden at Donnafugata, considered the most magnificent on the island.

  • Staying overnight in a Dammuso

Dammuso

Dammuso – ph Mannarano

  • Pantelleria wine and food

Zibibbo di Pantelleria - Ph Mannarano

Zibibbo di Pantelleria – Ph Mannarano

Pantelleria’s gastronomy comes from the exchanges and influences of the various peoples who inhabited the island. One of the most famous dishes is bitter ravioli , filled with ricotta and mint leaves. Also worth mentioning is the delicious Pantelleria pesto , a dressing made from raw tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, basil and chilli pepper. This sauce is a perfect dressing for pasta, roast fish or boiled meat.

From Africa comes the fish couscous . It is always prepared with different vegetables and legumes and is usually served as a main dish. From the East comes the traditional Easter cake : cannateddro . Mustazzola , on the other hand, is a simple pastry filled with a mixture of semolina, honey or cooked wine, cinnamon, candied orange peel and other spices.

La raccolta dei capperi - Ph Mannarano

La raccolta dei capperi – Ph Mannarano

Dates and olives are among the best qualities in the whole Mediterranean. The caper is the real star of the island. It is a PGI product grown on terraces made of dry stone walls , is picked between May and September and preserved in sea salt. A real delicacy!

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The Island Where Italians Go to Play (and Hide)

A favorite holiday destination of those in the know, craggy, wind-swept Pantelleria sits between Sicily and Tunisia.

travel e island pantelleria

By Amy Tara Koch

Known for its shoreline of jagged volcanic cliffs and sea-formed lava inlets, the Italian island of Pantelleria sits southwest of Sicily and just 50 miles east of Tunisia — on a clear day, it’s possible to see across the strait to Kelibia.

First inhabited during the Bronze Age, Pantelleria’s 32 square miles were subsequently conquered by the Carthaginians, the Arabs, the Romans and Roger II, King of Sicily, with clusters of dammusi — whitewashed, dome-roofed stone dwellings dating as far back as the 10th century — surviving it all. By the early 1800s, the island had been tamed anew by caper farmers and winemakers. The past decades have brought yet another set of arrivals; as other glamorous coastal spots (Portofino, Sorrento) were besieged by cruise ships, Pantelleria (population 7,500) emerged as an understated holiday destination for in-the-know Italians — Giorgio Armani and the actress Isabella Ferrari both have houses here. Even now, its rugged beauty and rich history are the draws: After a day spent exploring hidden coves, including the sea sponge-encrusted grotto Sataria, whose turquoise waters are said to have been the love nest of Ulysses and Calypso, visitors gather at bars like Sesiventi, on the island’s western end, for aperitivi as the sun sets over Neolithic burial domes.

Last year, Giulia Pazienza Gelmetti, a former pro basketball player, opened the 20-room Sikelia, set in modern-day dammusi perched on a hill between the southwestern villages of Rekhale and Scauri. Inside, the hotel is soothing and cavelike, with concrete floors and golden light streaming in through the Moorish archways. Themà, the hotel’s restaurant, offers North African-inflected dishes such as fish couscous with cinnamon and caper leaves. sikeliapantelleria.com

Tenuta Borgia

A lush, 30-acre property near Rekhale with fruit-bearing trees — lemon, peach, persimmon — Tenuta Borgia consists of seven ancient dammusi (ranging from one to four bedrooms apiece) refit with chestnut doors imported from Calabria and, in the main house, jellyfish-like Venetian glass light fixtures. Fans of Luca Guadagnino’s “ A Bigger Splash ” (2015), will instantly recognize its homey kitchen with checkerboard backsplash and majolica-tiled pool. tenutaborgia.it

Club Levante

A family estate until 1996, Club Levante still feels more like a sophisticated friend’s home than a bed-and-breakfast. For one, it’s composed of six freestanding guesthouses and a main house, which offer privacy and stunning views (this is the island’s only ocean-facing hotel). In addition to breakfast, the kitchen serves a daily lunch, plus dinner five times a week. But the biggest draw might be the location, between the island’s most distinctive landmarks — the Faraglione, a stack of oceanic rock popular with divers, and the Arco dell’Elefante, another rocky outcrop, which resembles an elephant plunging its trunk into the sea. clublevante.com

Osteria il Principe e il Pirata

This family-owned restaurant in Punta Karace has a large deck whose tables, set with mix-and-match glassware, overlook the sea. Sourcing local ingredients, chef-owner Franca Raffaele prepares perfectly executed classics — spaghetti bottarga, octopus stew, seared mackerel — while her husband and sons serve. Non-fish lovers should try the zesty pesto pantesco, made with almonds. For dessert there are Pantelleria kisses — light-as-air fritters stuffed with sweet ricotta and dusted with powdered sugar. ilprincipeeilpirata.it

At La Nicchia, which opened in an updated dammuso in 1987, diners can watch the chefs toss their pizza dough — don’t miss the wood-fired buffalo mozzarella, prawn and zucchini pie. But the most coveted spots are in the herb-filled garden out back, where lantern-topped tables are positioned around a centuries-old orange tree. Friends sit there late into the night, enjoying southern Italian staples like roasted rabbit with anchovies. The restaurant is not to be confused with the nearby farm of the same name, which sells jars of capers packed in sea salt. lanicchia.it

Donnafugata

Visitors to this sprawling 168-acre vineyard northeast of Mount Gibele, a grassy, now-dormant volcano at the island’s center, can walk along rows of tangled vines to see the ancient circular stone edifice that still collects rainwater to feed the underground cisterns. Nightly tasting sessions showcase Donnafugata’s best blends — including Ben Ryé, its award-winning passito, a sweet, after-dinner amber — which are paired with small plates, including bruschetta with ammogghio and mint-and-cheese ravioli. 011-39-0923915649, donnafugata.it .

Specchio di Venere

Legend has it that Venus stopped at this aquamarine-colored crater lake to take in her reflection. Mere mortals can do the same and bathe in its sulfurous, 110-degree waters, which are thought to soothe aching muscles. For another natural spa experience, head south to Benikulà Cave — an ancient dry sauna with plumes of hot vapors escaping from a cleft in the stone.

La Collina di Loredana

Pantelleria may be far from Italy’s most famous museums, but thanks to Piedmont native Attilio Rappa, it isn’t wanting for great art. Thirty years after an idyllic honeymoon here, he and his art-loving wife, Loredana, bought some land in Cimillia, a hilly residential area on the island’s northwest coast. Before Loredena died in 2006, the family turned it into a public park filled with sculptures by the likes of Not Vital, Franz Ackermann, Katinka Bock, Paul Morrison and Susan Philipsz (a new piece is added annually). The park is unmarked, but Cimillia locals will be happy to point you in the right direction.

After being heavily bombed during World War II, Pantelleria Town, with its fluorescently lit groceries and dingy cafes, is considered a less picturesque part of the island. This boutique, which Maria Cristina Olivo opened in 2002, is a notable exception, with statement pieces from mostly Italian labels, including floral silk kimonos by Ibrigu, patterned ponchos by Ermanno Gallamini and laser-cut swimwear from Florence’s Frida Querida. 011-39-0923911861

Emporio del Gusto

This 15-year-old food shop is stocked with all the local specialties — dried and salted caper berries, bottarga di tonno, grape jelly and prickly pear honey — as well as festive ceramic tableware by the Palermo-born maker Susanna De Simone. Outside, there are a few tables with a view of the port, where travelers and locals alike gather for Pantescan wine and generous platters of antipasti. emporio-gusto.com

Explore T Magazine

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 Eating With Our Hands : The sense of touch can be a crucial part of dining , one thing that some cultures have understood better than others.

 All About the Silhouette : From asymmetrical shapes to intricate tailoring, sculptural clothes with a strong sense of personality are front and center for spring’s fashion .

 How to Pack Light : Fitting everything you need for a longer stay into one small suitcase and one handbag or backpack requires some ingenuity . Here’s how to do it.

 When a Job Becomes Hell : In an era of continual burnout, artists and filmmakers are now imagining what it looks like when workers finally explode .

 The Unlikely Return of Lace : In fashion as well as products for the home, lace — once seen as the fustiest of fabrics  — is suddenly looking fresh.

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Pantelleria Centro

Il cuore commerciale e capoluogo dell'isola

Sita a Nord dell'isola, dove sorge il porto principale e il cuore commerciale, oltre ad essere il capoluogo è anche sede del palazzo comunale, dell'ufficio postale, delle banche, di due farmacie...

Una delle contrade più verdi 

Situata sul versante orientale costituisce una delle contrade più verdi dell’isola con i suoi terrazzamenti che degradano verso il mare, la distesa di viti di piana di ghirlanda e la fertile terra di...

La seconda contrada più grande dopo Pantelleria Centro

Sita sul lato ovest dell’isola rappresenta la seconda contrada più grande dopo Pantelleria Centro da cui dista circa 8 Km.

La contrada gode della presenza dell’unico cinema dell’isola, di una farmacia...

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Traditional Food

ALL THE GENUINITY OF TRADITION DURING YOUR HOLIDAY IN PANTELLERIA

The stay in a dammuso has always been presented as an independent type of holiday, without ancillary services. At the same time, however, we know that those who have chosen the dammuso as a place to relax for their stay did so because they love to discover the traditions and typical features of the place they decide to visit as well as obviously wanting a place of absolute relaxation for their vacation. For all...

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Thanks to the collaboration with our partner DAT you will be able to purchase a WEEKEND package for individuals or groups with a flight from SICILY at our selected facilities, taking advantage of EXCLUSIVE rates. Danish Air Transport is the Danish airline that connects the island of Pantelleria to Sicily. Flights are guaranteed daily to Trapani and Palermo airports with several daily routes during all seasons and...

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Pantelleria

A thousand faces, one island.

The island of Pantelleria is located 70 km from the African coast and 85 km from Sicily. Its surface is about 83 sq km and its maximum height is represented by 836 m. of the Great Mountain. It constitutes the emerged part of a volcanic building that rises about 2000 meters. ocean type. The island of Pantelleria recognized as a UNESCO heritage site in 2014 for the agricultural practice of sapling vines and recently proclaimed the 24th Italian National Park, is an island that stands out for the rural...

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Pantelleria, Italy

Pantelleria Island: Must-See Sights And Attractions

Looking for a unique beach holiday experience in Italy? Then it would be best if you visited Pantelleria. This island is popular with European travelers who relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy the sea. Pantelleria , situated in the Trapani province, is one of the southernmost parts of Europe. In fact, it is so far down south that the African continent is only thirty miles away. Like most Sicilian islands, Pantelleria was formed from the eruptions of two volcanoes. This makes it a haven if you are a spas lover, as the entire island is dotted with thermal springs. On the flip side, however, the high sulfur content of the water makes it undrinkable. Pantelleria is one of the largest among the numerous Sicilian islands. It will take you over an hour to drive over the entire circumference of the island. The presence of volcanic mountains and the formation of this island makes it an important case in volcanology, and it is also of great interest to geologists and volcano enthusiasts for over 100 years.

Pantelleria, Italy

Pantelleria is considered the greatest among the many Sicilian islands. Man has inhabited the island for many centuries. The Greeks lived here, and they called it Cossyra . The island later became a Phoenicians colony, which built a port here. This is the only port between Sicily and Africa. The Carthaginians also inhabited the island, and after them came the Romans during the Punic Wars. The Arabs then conquered the island, which gave added impetus to agriculture, making the island self-sustained. Pantelleria was a base for Italy during World War II. Its role in controlling the Canal of Sicily was indispensable. As a result, allied forces bombed it often, thereby destroying ancient relics and valuable information about its people’s history.

The Settlements

Most of Pantelleria is new, as the whole island had to be rebuilt after the bombings during World War II. The only surviving ancient monuments are the Sesi and the Barbacane Castle. The Sesi is or funerary chambers made of stone. These are from the late Bronze Age. The Barbacane Castle was built using black stones formed by volcanic lava. This castle was built several centuries ago, and the last structural renovation took place in 1700. There are eleven villages and settlements on the entire island. These have still retained their Arabic names. The most important villages are Khamma, Rekhale, Bukkuram, and Buyer. You will also find some houses dotting the uninhabited lands. Interestingly, the traditional residence of Pantelleria is the dammuso. This is an Arabian cube-shaped house made using a stone called conci. Typically, the house has thick walls, and the roof is a terrace with a big dome in the center. The domes sometimes have numerous small openings or windows. These houses might look ghastly to some, as this art and architecture style is an acquired taste. Attraction – The Sea The waters surrounding Pantelleria is perhaps the biggest attraction that draws people in the thousands to the island. Unlike the Mediterranean waters in another place, the water that gently crashes into the Pantelleria soil is crystal clear. The top bathing spots along the coast are Karuscia, Campobello, Khattibuali, Cala Cinque Denti , Cala Gadir (which also has a thermal spring), Cala Tramontana, Faraglione, and Cala. The coral seabed is full of unique and exotic marine flora and fauna that can’t be found anywhere else in the Mediterranean. For instance, you will be able to see many rare varieties of Gorgonia and swim past numerous types of algae. Tourists enjoy snorkeling in these waters, and sightings of playful dolphins bobbing in and out of the sea are not rare. All in all, a swim in the Pantelleria sea will be an exhilarating and emotional experience for you.

Things to do in Pantelleria

There is a lot to do and see in Pantelleria. To start things off, you can take a boat ride around the island to get familiarized with it. Sticking with the water theme, you can then visit the natural marine caves, go snorkeling or scuba diving, or you could stretch yourself out on a beach towel and sun.

Pantelleria on Foot

Walking through Pantelleria, you will unravel many interesting activities and go on little adventures. It would be best if you took a walk through the fields of the zibibbo grapes. You will pass the typical Pantelleria farm cottage and quaint little houses on the way.

Montagna Grande Natural Park

A visit to the Montagna Grande Natural Park is a must. This is especially recommended if you have an interest in trees and botany. Here, you will get to see 600 different species of trees, including rare ones like the Limonium Cosyrese, the Helichrysum Errarae, and the Mattiola Encana. You will also see different types of birds and colorful insects here. You must stay and watch the sunset on the Sicilian Channel. If the weather is clear, you may even be able to the African coast.

Specchio di Venere

The Specchio di Venere is a tiny lake on the island. This is a volcanic crater that is fed by thermal springs. This water is therapeutic, and the lake is also a popular destination for water sports. It is also a great place to go bird watching in spring and summer when you find some exotic migratory birds crossing.

The Khagiar is a lush Mediterranean bush covered in myrtle, arbutus, lentil, and heather. This was once the path of the lava flow and is three kilometers long. You will see many wild rabbits here, and so does the so-called Greek turtle. Dietro Isola In the southern part of the island is the Dietro Isola. This is a pinewood forest, which is an extension of the Montagna Grande. This is a popular destination for bird watchers, and the scents from the greenery will overwhelm you. There are several cliffs here that offer you some of the best views from the island.

Piana di Ghirlanda

The island’s ancient volcanoes surround the fertile plains of Piana di Ghirlanda. Nestled within these green expanses are Byzantine tombs.

Thermal Baths

Pantelleria is a volcanic isle full of thermal springs. The rise in different places on the coast with temperatures ranging between 70 and 100 ° C. The Bagno Asciutto is a natural sauna situated inside a beautiful cave. This treasure is a lucky find as it could have been lost among the rocks the surround it. The popular thermal baths are at Cala Rotonda, Balata dei Turchi and its obsidian cave, Nicà, the ancient Roman port of Scauri, Sateria, Suvaki, Punta Fram (the fantastically sculpted lava forms here are also a highlight), Mursia, and the Cala Bue The incredible Arco dell Elefante is anther natural monument at Pantelleria and legend has it that when the island lacks water, an elephant pumps it in from the sea. But the most popular spring the Venus’ Bath. The spring is actually 6 kilometers from the built-up area that is known as Venus’ Bath. This beautiful lake with green water was a crater formed by volcanic eruptions. The lake is big and has a half kilometer long diameter. This bath gets its name from mythology. According to the story, the Goddess Venus reflected herself in this lake’s waters to compare her beauty to Psyche’s, her rival in love.

Zibibbo grapes & Moscato wine

Grapes were introduced to the island by the Arabs, but full-fledged production started only in the mid 19th century. The zibibbo is the most popular grape on the island of Pantelleria. The name is derived from the Arabic word zibib that means grape. The method of cultivation of the grapes is similar to the technique taught by the Arabic rulers. Many wines are made from the zibibbo grapes. The taste of this wine is very different from the wines made from other types of grapes. The local wine is called Moscato. It had a dark yellow or amber color and has a robust taste. The island also manufactures the Passito wine. This wine also has an amber color, but the taste is unique, as it tastes like dried figs, candied fruits, and dates. Another wine produced here from the zibibbo grapes is the Bianco di Pantelleria.

How to get to Pantelleria?

By Air: Pantelleria airport is 2 kilometers from the city. You can get connections to all major Italian cities here. By Sea: You could get here by sea using ferries and hydrofoils. The closest port is at Trapani, which is 53 Kilometers from Pantelleria. The harbor at Pantelleria is small. There are only 20 berths, and to dock here, your boat should have a minimum depth of two meters and a maximum length of 24 meters. By Road: There are no highways and motorway lines in Pantelleria. The nearest ones are in Trapani. By Train: The closest train station is at Trapani.

travel e island pantelleria

My name is Francesca Pascale, and I am a travel expert in Italy. With a passion for exploring the rich history and diverse culture of my country, I have spent years traveling the length and breadth of Italy to discover its hidden gems, must-see attractions, and off-the-beaten-path destinations.

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Italy: The Island of Pantelleria, Near Tunisia

Pantelleria: land of liquid prayers.

By Anneli Rufus

The Elephant, a famous sea arch on the island of Pantelleria, off the coast of Tunisia. photos by Kristan Lawson.

Flying south from Trapani to Pantelleria, a craggy island that’s technically part of Italy but only 37 miles off the coast of Tunisia, feels like a ritual passage to another world — especially when you’re told that this half-hour flight is often cancelled due to wind. Wind.

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But as we approached the island, buffeted, we begged those gods to let us land. The Time Tunnel had already begun.

Traces of Africa

On clear mornings, you can see Africa from Pantelleria’s jagged peaks. Even if we hadn’t already marveled over it on a map we could sense this proximity upon exiting the tiny airport.

The autumn sun blasted down on our hatless heads with that unyieldingly casual confidence you find in such places: a blinding heat that draws a sharp dividing line between those who can stand still in it for ten minutes and those who can’t.

This first trace of Africa that visitors detect in Pantelleria is a leaf-searing heat which in a bad mood we would call brutal but in a good mood we would call a blessing: bone-deep, ripening the fruits that flourish here and whispering to weary northerners: You need never wear winter coats again.

That promise (along with a light sprinkling of sumptuous resorts) has proven irresistible to celebrities from Truman Capote to Madonna to Sting, all seeking the perfect confluence of privacy, otherworldliness and warmth.

Harvesting the grapes, a key part of the island economy.

Giorgio Armani has a home-away-from-home here in a traditional dome-roofed house. Although today’s residents speak Italian, many place names are medieval Arabic — Mueggen, Gadir, Khamma, Bukkuram — thanks to a circa-700 CE Maghreb invasion that was neither the first nor the last in a 35,000-year skein of arrivals and occupations involving Phoenicians, ancient Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Crusaders, Spaniards, Turks, Italians and, during World War II, Allied soldiers.

Roller-Coastery Roads

Leaving the airport in a Fiat Panda small enough to squeeze through Pantelleria’s narrow, roller-coastery island roads, we saw scant identifiable evidence of these past inhabitants.

Instead we saw olive-green, vineyard-striped slopes racing down toward a sometimes-cobalt, sometimes-stonewashed-denim sea. A Parisian traveler was sharing our Panda. He thrust his head out its window and, gazing from peak to sea, kept repeating Wow, wow, wow. We wondered how to spell that in French.

A traditional Pantellerian circular enclosure known as a Giardino Pantesco.

Studding the cliffs and slopes and lining those narrow roads — on which local custom finds drivers politely nodding, smiling and negotiating gracious but mandatory do-si-dos to let each other pass — are distinctive dome-roofed Pantellerian houses, known as dammusi, ubiquitous here but seen nowhere else in the world.

Their walls are built of pigeon-gray volcanic stone up to three feet thick to deflect the heat and wind, and their domes — gentle pale humps, each resembling the back of a hippopotamus emerging from a pool — are ingeniously designed to collect and conserve rainwater in hidden subterranean basins, because Pantelleria has no fresh water of its own.

Stark Contrasts

Natural fresh water isn’t all that this island lacks. Thanks to rockbound shorelines that are treacherous for boats, Pantelleria is one of the few Mediterranean islands with no fishing industry; thus its local “Pantescan” cuisine — while rich in ricotta cheese, capers, eggplant, tomatoes and island-grown olive oil — is almost entirely seafood-free.

This is what passes for a beach--very rocky--on Pantelleria.

This five-mile-wide seabound speck lacks so much as one single natural sandy beach. But it compensates for this with sturdy volcanic grandeur — such as the stark, sandless, rock-edged cove where we spent a few hours swimming and sunbathing amidst outer-spacey serenity, paddling in the body-temperature shallows while gazing up at broad swatches of stone and sky that hovered overhead like brushstrokes in a Miró masterpiece.

Pantelleria also has The Elephant, an offshore rock arch evoking a proud pachyderm plunging its trunk into the sea. And it has cliffs dropping seaward sheer and black.

Certain sunny islands sweetly rockabye their visitors beyond the tick-tock consciousness of time. With its rocks and rambling Byzantine ruins, with its hot springs and no-joke weather and warm, caldera-cradled salt lake — appropriately named the “Mirror of Venus” — Pantelleria set us inside our skin, suddenly aware of our smallness and vulnerability against history, stone edges and uncompromising elements.

Thousands of these old buildings pepper the island.

Most visitors spend little time in the island’s capital city — also called Pantelleria — because all of its dammusi and other historic structures were destroyed in 1943, thanks to a tragic misunderstanding which Pantescans still recount bitterly today.

British and American troops needed Pantelleria as a launching pad from which to invade Sicily, so for weeks they relentlessly bombed the hilltop pillboxes of the Italian garrison. Knowing they were licked, the Italian forces tried to surrender on the day before the final amphibious assault:

But in the chaos of war, the Allied commanders were unaware of this attempted surrender — so in one final apocalypse, Allied troops demolished the capital city.

So we too headed out to the countryside.

We took steep climbs, past the bee-loud vineyards up those green slopes dotted with dammusi and with stone shacks built to shelter donkey-drivers far from home. We plucked fresh capers — the most prized of their kind in all of Italy — straight off the bush, tasting like the flower buds that they actually are.

These tiny and uniquely pungent capers are pulverized into Pantescan pesto and gently cooked up sweet, salty and exquisitely unctuous into what might be the world’s best caponata.

On wind-battered Pantelleria, grape vines are pruned low to the ground.

Everyone we met said we were wildly lucky because the wind was unseasonably slack. Wind velocity is a constant subject of conversation. One woman who divides her days between Pantelleria and Palermo told us what happens here when the wind causes power outages and cancels flights: Long dark nights. Jokes and stories told by candlelight.

Tough and Sweet

Blazing brightness. Sacred shade. Sips of passito de Pantelleria, a honey-sweet golden wine made from a type of grape that flourishes here: Zibibbo, also dubbed “Moscato d’Allesandria” or “Alexandrian Muscat,” thanks to its ancient North African origins.

Considered by oenologists to be among the world’s oldest varietals, Zibibbo was the grape of choice in ancient Egypt and was likely brought to this island eons ago by Phoenician colonists.

Exploring Pantelleria today, you will still see Zibibbo vineyards ascending the terraced hillsides and stretching far across the valleys. Zibibbo’s perfumes are mainly concentrated in its skin: a hardy, sun-loving, wind-resistant flesh that looks like cinnamon-dusted jade when ripe.

One local winery, Donnafugata, calls its award-winning passito Ben Ryé: Pronounced “ben ree-ay,” meaning “born of the wind,” it tastes like liquid prayers.

A glass of the sweet Passito wine of the island.

If you’d like to watch grape-harvesting in action, visit in late August through September.

Unlike most other grapevines in the world, which are trained to reach upward, Pantelleria’s are trained to stay very close to the ground and are further shielded from the wind by hand-built, volcanic-stone walls.

Local growers say that these arid, windy conditions are exactly what Zibibbos need to reach peak sweetness — and that strong winds actually help the grapes by keeping their skin dry, thus resistant to mold and rot. Because Pantelleria’s terraces are too sinuous and its roads too narrow for large farm machinery, nearly all agriculture here is done by hand: More shades of a pre-industrial past.

Grapes drying at the Donnafugata winery.

Donnafugata welcomes visitors to its winery. That’s a rarity in Italy.

“Only the best grapes get dried,” explained Donnafugata’s technical director Antonio Rallo as we stood amidst 120-year-old vines lining the pumice- and obsidian-studded hillside above the winery.

“We’re not trying to capture the flavor of the fresh grape but rather to dry the grapes under the sun in the wind to create an aroma that is completely different from that of the fresh grapes. This is our philosophy: not to preserve the aromas of the fresh grape but to find the new aromas of the dried grape.”

We watched workers cutting grapes, cleaning and inspecting each bunch carefully before placing it into a plastic bin. The bunches would then spend two weeks atop open-air drying racks, turned occasionally to let the weather do its work — turning plump fruit into ultra-sweet raisins many times the size of normal raisins.

Working the Zibibbo grapes on Pantelleria.

Tricky Kisses

Back at the winery’s tasting room, we paired passito with local pastries known as “Pantescan kisses,” baci Panteschi: sweet ricotta cheese sandwiched between delicate flower-shaped pastries formed by an iron mold dipped into thin batter. Every bite was a beautiful challenge, as soft cheese squirted sensually through the crisp golden shards. Stark contrast defines even the pastries in this place.

IWe took another long look at those cliffs. Strolled through the sleepy streets of Khamma town. And thought of never, and forever, and the wind.

IMG_1352.JPG Zibibbo grapes, ready for harvest, in front of a centuries-old wall.

Where to Stay:

Baci panteschi, a specialty of the island.

La Kuddia 10 Corso Umberto I, Pantelleria Phone: 0923 911694; Cell: 3485449985

Where to Eat:

La Favarotta Contrada Khamma, Khamma fuori Phone: 0923-915446 (In all cases, it’s best to call after you arrive to ask for directions: street addresses on Pantelleria are vague.)

Where to Sample Local Wines:

Donnafugata Cellars

Contrada Khamma Fuori 6 By appointment only. Phone: 39 0923 915649

Getting Around:

The roads on the island are all very narrow.

The island is small, but not quite small enough to explore entirely on foot, and although there are local buses, their schedules and routes are hard to decipher.

Your best bet is to rent a car at the airport; make sure to get the smallest car available, which makes it much easier to navigate Pantelleria’s challengingly narrow roads. Enterprise has just recently begun renting cars in Italy, it’s a good choice if you’ve never rented in Europe before.

How to Get There:

Various regional and charter airlines fly in and out of Pantelleria only during high season (late spring to early fall); the easiest way to learn which airlines are currently serving the island is to check the Web site of Pantelleria Airport itself , which lists all incoming flights for the upcoming months:

Darwin Airline generally has daily flights to Pantelleria from Trapani and Palermo throughout the year:

Love Italy? Get GoNOMAD’s Italy Plane Reader for dozens of fascinating stories like this to read on your Kindle, Nook or iPad!

Anneli Rufus

Anneli Rufus is an award-winning author and journalist whose books include Weird Europe , California Babylon , Party of One: The Loners’ Manifesto, and the upcoming Unworthy: How to Stop Hating Yourself.

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Don't Tell Anyone About the Last Secret Italian Island

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Looking for a place to really hermit out? Pantelleria, the North Africa-meets-Italy island between Sicily and Tunisia, may be the ultimate in escapism. Three-time visitor Sara Blumberg knows her way around the private and remote Mediterranean isle.

PANTELLERIA, Italy – Pantelleria is a volcanic island that sits alone in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily and 35 miles east of Tunisia. One of Italy's southernmost points, its remote location ensures it stays under the radar for most tourists — and even for most Italians.

Pantelleria is at once worth the trip and hard to embrace. My husband Jim Oliveira and I have been three times in the past several years, and for the sake of this story I will pretend that I understand this jagged island marvel.

Pantelleria is beautiful — beyond beautiful — but its rocky terrain, sheer cliffs, and tiny roads make exploring a challenge. We learned on our first trip that sometimes the challenge begins prior to arrival. As we approached Pantelleria's airport (read: landing strip) on a flight from Palermo, Sicily, the plane suddenly rose back into the air. As a fellow passenger explained it, landing on Pantelleria requires near perfect conditions because the airport sits at the edge of a mountain, which can prevent navigational instruments from being much use. The pilot tried three more times, gave up, and delivered us to the Trapani airport (read: shed) instead, where we ended up on a ferry when hopes for an evening flight disappeared.

There are two ways to see Pantelleria, from the land and from the sea. A drive from one end of the island to the other takes about 45 minutes and can follow several routes. High and winding narrow roads hug the land near the shore; interior roads give a good view of the island's small villages and daily life.

Cliffs

Like the American Southwest — dry with open skies and unbelievably dramatic sunsets, this is an island of contrasts, where dusty hills rise and dip into fertile valleys filled with caper farms and vineyards growing the famous indigenous zibibbo grapes, which make delicious passito and moscato wines.

And the sea! The coastline is as hard to reach as it is breathtaking. While there are a handful of accessible spots around the island, a seaside adventure usually begins with a steep and daring decent down narrow paths lined with sharp volcanic rock and massive cacti. Gorgeous blue-green and wildly clear water is the just reward.

If you don't want to make the climb down to sea from land (have courage!), you can rent a boat, hugging the coast and dropping anchor wherever you like (my preference: less courage!). You won't find a grain of sand anywhere, and the coast's sharp edges are not to be taken lightly. But you will find natural hot springs hidden in secret coves and dramatic outcroppings and soaring cliffs above — ample distraction from the physical perils. The two most dramatic views are at Elefante , an enormous outcropping of rock that resembles an elephant's trunk making an arch from land to sea, and Salta-la-Vecchia , a soaring and especially dramatic series of cliffs. The coastline is a near constant thrill, and the entire island can be visited in one glorious afternoon.

Pantelleria Coast

Of all the things that make Pantelleria unique, dammusi top my list. The small structures are composed of a volcanic rock called tufo and rise from the earth like orderly caves with straight walls and arching roofs. The absence of a water source on the island dictates a great deal of its architecture, not to mention the behavior of the Pantescans. Every dammuso has a cistern, and every garden has systems for catching every drop of water. Troughs are everywhere, ensuring that water running anywhere, anytime will be put to use.

Because the island is so isolated, wind is a constant source of conversation and alarm. Even plants inhabit amazing architecture of their own. Giardini arabi (Arabic gardens) are stone structures similar to dammusi used to protect plants from the unrelenting winds. It is impossible not to notice that most of the vegetation on the island is stunted, and all the more amazing to consider the abundance of capers and grapes.

Most island residents live in a series of small dusty towns and villages. Pantelleria Town is the island's fairly large port. While not the most beautiful, it's a practical spot for basic services like gas, supermarkets, and larger wine shops.

On our most recent visit, we rented a house on the opposite end of the island, ten minutes from the small town of Scauri — a typical town with small shops, bars, restaurants, and markets. Daily life is that of any small Italian village — older people meeting in the main square to share a coffee and watch the island's few tourists pass by. The locals here are tough — with good reason. The weather and wind are a constant concern, and travel on the narrow and rocky roads is not for the faint of heart. The rich and famous inhabit the island (Giorgio Armani among them), but without an invitation to the many fabulous homes hidden behind enormous plantings, one would never know it.

Our daily routine was the same: drive to the beach in the morning, gather supplies in the afternoon, pick a new spot (a caper farm, a thermal pool, a small market) to explore. Pantelleria is excellent for adventurous people, even as it's very relaxing. By now, we have made friends on the island, so we usually spent our evenings entertaining guests and preparing meals together.

Beach in Pantelleria

The fact that I have not yet mentioned the food is testament to the distraction provided by Patelleria's natural wonders. But agriculture is a big part of life on the island. Capers and grapes may get top billing, but olives, tomatoes, and lemons also abound. Whatever the island does not produce is ferried in from Sicily. Our rented dammuso had a lovely kitchen, and gathering food from various small local shops was half the fun of being there. We found a fantastic, tiny bakery that sits below street level and faces the sea. They took almond paste to new heights in cookies made with orange peel and walnuts.

At La Niccia , the island's best known restaurant, food is simply prepared and delicious. In good weather, the rooftop garden is peaceful and romantic. Owner and chef Gianni Busetta wrote a terrific cookbook filled with Pantescan specialties that makes for a great souvenir. On our most recent visit, we were treated to after-dinner passito and baccia , a delicate local funnel cake shaped like a snowflake filled with sweetened ricotta and topped with confectioner's sugar.

There are a handful of other good spots for dinner, like U'Trattu in Rekhale, where the menu consists of basics like Pantesco salad with tomatoes, olives, potatoes, capers, and classic caponata. But as I said, the real fun here is buying and cooking local food from the tiny sources you stumble upon, then going back to your rented house and having fun with the fresh fish, homemade pasta, and authentic Italian wine.

Plan Your Trip

How to get there: The local  Pantelleria Airport (PNL)  is served by various regional airlines, more frequently during summer months, through connections from Milan, Rome, Venice, and through Palermo and Trapani in Sicily. This is a pretty remote place, so don't be surprised if you have a layover. If you don't want to fly, take the 7-hour daily or overnight ferry from Trapani.

Getting around the island: We usually spend a week in Pantelleria, which is a good plan because direct flights from Milan, Venice, and Rome usually on Saturday. Renting a car is key and is easy to do at the airport. 

Where to stay: We are a little spoiled because friends on the island tend to make arrangements for us, but Tenuta Borgia is a very elegant if very DIY resource for renting dammusi.

When to go: Pantelleria is 35 miles off the coast of Tunisia, closer to Northern Africa than Italy, so summers can be sweltering. But in the winter you'll find yourself with nothing to do. The best times to go are May, June, September, and October.

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Pantelleria: Italy's Anti-Capri Aeolian Islands Essentials Capri Guide

We make every effort to ensure the information in our articles is accurate at the time of publication. But the world moves fast, and even we double-check important details before hitting the road.

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Pantelleria: A Down-to-Earth Guide

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Pantelleria is paradise for those in search of somewhere down-to-earth and soulful. It’s an intense immersion in nature, from the volcanic rocks and springs, to the clean blue waters, dammusi houses made from the earth and open-air scooters and buggies.

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The Island Without a Single Beach

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Volcanic Activity

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Travel guide to Pantelleria: Five Reasons to Visit

Curated Under: Pantelleria Things to do

Pantelleria_Travel Guide_Villa Italy

The island of Pantelleria is situated in the Strait of Sicily, between Sicily and Tunisia. While it remains pleasantly undiscovered by international tourists, it has all the trumps for making a great holiday destination. But let’s keep that between ourselves.

The volcanic outcrop can best be described as a melting lava pot of Arab and Italian culture. The petrified landscape is tamed by terraced slopes of vineyards, caper bushes, thermal mud pools and ancient Dammusi.

Here are five reasons why Pantelleria should be the number one destination on your Italian bucket list.

Afro Italian Gastronomy

Caponata_Pantelleria cuisine_Villa Italy

Despite being an Italian island, Pantelleria is fiercely proud of its Arab roots, and there is no great proof than in Pantesco cuisine. On the threshold of Africa: it’s closer to Tunisia than to Italy; the North African influence is evident. Ingredients, such as couscous, honey, spices and dried fruit, play an important role in the island’s dishes. Fused with the staple ingredients of the island: capers (reputed to be the best in Italy, if not in the world), olives, aubergine (eggplant), tomatoes and olive oil, this Afro Italian cuisine is distinctive and delicious.

Contrary to archetypical island custom, Pantelleria doesn’t have a big fishing tradition, so most fish is imported from the mainland. Typically one can expect to find octopus, lobster, sardines, bream, shellfish, tuna and mackerel on a Pantesco menu. Fish is typically served baked with tomatoes and capers, or lightly fried.

Capers with salt_Pantelleria_Villa Italy

Gelato (ice cream) from Pantelleria has one main ingredient missing: the cream. It’s as cool and light as the wind that sweeps across the island. But if you like your sweets to taste sweet, then we recommend a Kiss Pantesco . No, you don’t have to kiss a local (unless you want to of course!). A Kiss Pantesco is a typical sweet pastry from Pantelleria; two deliciously thick and crispy pancakes sandwich a filling of ricotta, chocolate chips and cinnamon, topped with a dusting of icing sugar. Divino!

Wine from Pantelleria

Pantelleria wine_Villa Italy

Like so many regions of Italy, Pantelleria is famous for its wines. The island is home to some of Europe’s most southerly located vineyards. Legend has it that the Goddess Tanit wanted to attract the attend of Apollo. She turned to Venus, the Goddess of Love, for advice. She advised Tanit to scale Olympus pretending to be a cupbearer, and offer him a cup of golden Ambrosia. Instead she took a cup of the fermented Pantesco wine, and Venus fell in love.

There are over 300 small growers in Pantelleria, which shows the importance of the production, for such a small island. Passito di Pantelleria and Moscato di Pantelleria are two varieties of wine that have been granted the DOCG ( Denominazione d’Origine Controllata e Garantita ) status, which denotes Italian wines of the highest quality.

The Passito di Pantelleria is produced from wind-dried grapes grown on the island, a variety of wine that was immortalized by the ancient gods, and has since been revered by wine critics around the world. The production itself uses age-old methods; the vines are very low bush, planted on small terraces bordered by dry-built lava stone walls. The resulting wine has a honeyed sweetness, with hints of orange.

Moscato di Pantelleria (Pantesco Moscatel) has been produced on the island since the beginning of records, using the Zibibbo grape variety. The wine is one of Sicily’s principal wines, typically drunk on the feast day of St Martin, April 13th.

The Dammusi (architecture)

Corte Pantesca_Dammusi_Pantelleria_Villa Italy

The island of Pantelleria has been inhabited since prehistoric times. The first inhabitants were extremely adept at construction, their unique methods and architectonic skills were quite diverse and forward thinking for the era, which can be seen amongst the prehistoric ruins that pepper the island.

The Dammusi are traditional Pantesco homes built from the natural stone of the island. They were first constructed during the Arab occupation during the 10th century, they have been architectural icons of the island. A dammuso has a cubic base and is finished with a dome shaped roof, which collects rainwater. The name Dammuso has its origin in the Italian word ‘dammusi’ which means vault.

Corte Pantesca 1 & 2 are traditional Dammusi lovingly restored into exquisite guests retreats. Each sleeping up to four guests.

Benikulà Cave

Benikulà Cave (the dry bathing) shelters a natural sauna, one of the best known dry-baths in the world. This natural phenomenon derives from the island’s volcanic activity. Fashioned only by mother nature, this is an encounter not to be missed when visiting Pantelleria. Inside the cave visitors sit on large lava stones, whilst the subterranean steam vapours relax mind and body. The deeper you go into the cave, the hotter the vapours.

A trip to Benikulà Cave is best experienced early morning, or at sunset, when the views to the valley are stunning. The Benikulà Cave can be found on the ridge of the Montagna Grande, just a short walk away from the hamlet of Siba.

The Mirror of Venus

Mirror of Venus_Pantelleria_Villa Italy

Specchio di Venere (Mirror of Venus) is a natural rainwater lake formed from an old crater. If it looks familiar it’s because it’s been the location for many a fashion shoot: Madonna herself was even photographed covered in the therapeutic Fango mud. The lake itself is formed from an ancient caldera which produces the thermal springs. To one side of the lakes these springs create a gurgling mud bath. Here the Fango and algae have extremely restorative effects for your skin. Bathers, old and young, can be found revelling in the delicious, warm mud.

These are five perfect reasons to visit Pantelleria, but let me add a sixth: anonymity. This peaceful island hasn’t yet been touched by mainstream tourism, and long may it stay that way. Arriving on Pantelleria you immediately sense that this is the destination where your stresses will be carried off with the wind, and where nobody is going to mess with your happy karma.

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travel e island pantelleria

Pantelleria

View of Pantelleria

If you are looking forward to having an enjoyable vacation on a lovely island with natural surroundings, then Pantelleria off the island of Sicily is a good choice. Pantelleria is located at around 30 miles from Africa and belongs to the province of Trapani, which is among the southernmost parts of Europe. This place is known for its natural hot springs, fantastic sea view and was formed as a result of volcanic eruptions . People come here to view the natural coastline of this region, its pristine beauty that is surrounded with lot of caves, grottos and inlets.

Pantelleria has a lot of Arab influence seen in the way houses are constructed such as the Dammuso, which are made using square stones. Thus, there is a cultural mix of Arabian and Sicilian ways of life observed here in Pantelleria with hilly countryside comprising of these Dammuso homes. Most of the buildings have been built after the Second World War so they are not very old. The Castle of Barbacane is the oldest among all the buildings seen here, which existed even during the pre war period.

Nature in Pantelleria

Pantelleria Places of Interest

Specchio di Venere

This is a lake formed due to its volcanic origin with thermal springs draining its waters into it. According to an ancient belief, Venus saw her reflection in this lake while comparing her beauty with the opponent, Psyche. Specchio di Venere is one of the main attractions of Pantelleria and visited by numerous tourists.

Neolithic village

Here one can find craters of ancient origin along with low stone field boundary walls with mounds of rubble known as the Sese Grande. This structure resembles a tower arising from a block of huge elliptical base of lava blocks covered with a decorative lodge and making its way to the top. Besides, there are 12 entrances in the form of passages linking it to the tombs, where the dead bodies were placed with the head pointing towards the western direction.

Montagna Grande

Montagna Grande is the highest point on this volcanic island where at 2743 foot high, one can get excellent views of this island. The mountain comprises of a natural park with various plants and species of different kinds along with lovely rock formations. Right from the town of Tracino towards the sea, the rock formations resembles the form of elephant trunk and hence it is referred to as the “elephant trunk arch”.

Sea of Pantelleria

You can visit this place to catch a glimpse of the scenic harbor view along with the waters of the hot spring. There are some excellent views that one can have from the cemetery.

In this fishing village, there is a gorge of lava, where the rocks lie at a close distance through which many hot springs arise. As you walk back into the coastal road, near to the Rekhale junction, there are some villages that have still retained the dammusi and the Pantelleria gardens in the original form. When you come back to the coast, there is a steep drop to the sea where you can see Saltalavecchia, which is a village, located on the cliff at the highest point.

In this small harbor, one can come across fishes springing from the thermal waters and at a short distance from here, there is a path that leads to the lighthouse. As you follow the path downhill among the stone lava walls, there is a lake of waves surrounded by huge cliffs along with volcanic rock formations. The scenic beauty of this place attracts the visitors coming to this place.

Activities around Pantelleria

There are plenty of boat tours offered here for the entertainment of the tourists, and some delicious food and wine is served on the onboard journey. From across the sea, you can get a wonderful glimpse of the scenic beauty of this region and see the volcanic land on the sea. The charge per person is around 35 euros.

You can also visit many thermal pools found across this region of Pantelleria. Monestro is a good place where you can find natural thermal pools and lot of wonderful views can be had from here. Santaria is also a hot thermal pool found within a cave and it is believed to be the love nest of Calypso and Ulysses.

Getting to Pantelleria

There are different travel options available for reaching Pantelleria and you can choose ferry services from Trapani in Sicily along with hydrofoils that offer such overnight trips. You may be able to find regular flight services from Trapani and Palermo as well with close connectivity to the island of Pantelleria. If you are in Rome or Milan, then there are direct flights that fly to Pantelleria.

Pantelleria

Getting Around Pantelleria

If you want to move and see different places around this island, then the best way is to hire a moped, which is most suited for individual travelers. For others, the best option would be to make use of the bus services to have a look around the place.

Eating and drinking

There are la ot of Sicilian bars offering snacks and tasty wine amidst a lovely ambience in Pantelleria. Besides, you must taste the popular wine-Passito- which is served in most of the restaurants. It is an ancient wine, which is available locally in this region. Besides, there are also some good restaurants that serve delicious food along with a blend of the local cuisines and other international flavors.

Hotels and accommodation

There are a lot of good hotels and accommodation facilities available for the tourists for staying individually or along with family members. You can come across 3 star hotels and 5 star hotels offering luxurious stay and living with good service offered to the customers. There are plenty of hotels offering a good scenic view of the harbor along with facilities such as tennis courts, private beach and a swimming pool to cater to the needs of different travelers.

By Irene Tischenko

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Tuesday, May 21, 2019

Six days on the island of pantelleria, sicily.

View from Il Principe e Il Pirata restaurant on Pantelleria.

Getting Around

Impressions.

Example of a dammuso on Pantelleria with white roof.

  • ( loc ) Punta Karace (Gadir). Swim.
  • ( loc ) Lago di Specchio di Venere. Swim.
  • ( loc ) Grotta Sataria. Closed due to landslides, so no swimming.
  • ( loc ) Mare Nikà. Just a walk to water, with no easy way into the water, so again no swimming.
  • ( loc ) Ballata dei Turchi. Swim.
  • ( loc ) Cala Levante. Swim.
  • ( loc ) Cala Rotonada Martingana. Swim.
  • Punta Karace (Gadir). Swim.

Balneazione sicura or "safe swimming" spots on Pantelleria. Note how many are either scogli "rocks" or pianale "platform".

  • Cous cous pantesco – Cous cous based on fish and vegetables, often served with fish broth on the side to add as desired.
  • Insalata pantesca – An easy salad of boiled potatoes, capers, onions, and fresh tomatoes as a base.
  • Pesto pantesco – Not your typical green pesto made of basil but rather this version is based on fresh tomatoes.
  • Bacio pantesco – The “Pantelleria kiss” is a dessert “sandwich” made of two light and crispy pastries with ricotta between them.
  • Ravioli panteschi – Ravioli filled with ricotta and mint.
  • Caponata pantesca – A variant of caponata.
  • Riso con zucchini – A risotto-like dish with zucchini and mint.
  • Zibibbo – Referred to as Muscat of Alexandria in the north.
  • Capers – The fruit of Capparis spinosa features prominently in the cuisine of Pantelleria. The capers normally eaten are the pickled flower buds though the pickled fruits can be eaten as well.
  • Busiate – A pasta common in Southern Italy and commonly seen on Pantelleria menus, busiate pasta looks like corkscrews.
  • Passito di Pantelleria – a sweet wine made from zibibbo grapes and produced exclusively on Pantelleria.

A Pantesco dish: caponata.

Our Itinerary

travel e island pantelleria

Poem: Staring at the Sea

Not just the sea.

Vines on Pantelleria grown in the vite ad alberello method.

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What Kirsty did next

Why you should visit Pantelleria

Arco dell’elefante in Pantelleria

Pantelleria is a Sicilian island that can be reached by ferry or by plane. It is known as the ‘black pearl’ because of the blackness of its rocks, due to its volcanic origin. In fact, Specchio di Venere (Venus’s mirror), is a thermal lake that is a former volcanic crater!

It’s a fabulous holiday destination, loved by Italians and foreigners alike.

How to get to Pantelleria

Getting to Pantelleria depends on where you’re travelling from. There are certain cities in Italy, such as Milan, that fly direct to Pantelleria on certain days. We flew from Palermo , as there are two flights a day, with a flight time of just under an hour. Note that the flights are seasonal and operated by DAT.

You can also get to Pantelleria by Ferry from Trapani. The fastest ferry (Liberty Lines) takes two and a half hours and the slowest (Siremar) takes 6 hours.

Where to stay in Pantelleria

Pantelleria is a fairly big island at around 84 square km (32 square miles) and there are different areas or suburbs that you can stay in.

We stayed in Trancino at Pantelleria Dream Resort , which has rooms that are traditional dammusi. It’s a fabulous resort, with a stunning infinity pool and a great restaurant. It’s also family owned and run and the staff are really friendly and helpful.

Disclosure: This post contains an affiliate link , which earns me a little bit of commission at no extra cost to you.

Infinity pool at Pantelleria Dream Resort

We loved this area because it’s very close to some wonderful swimming spots, such as Cala Levante, Gadir and also the iconic Arco dell’Elefante.

Cala Levante in Pantelleria

Another popular area is Scauri, which has some great restaurants and is also close to the sea.

Wherever you decide to stay, you’ll always be fairly close to the sea, restaurants and shops as it only takes around 45 minutes to an hour to travel around the entire island.

Best things to do in Pantelleria

I was delighted that there was quite a bit to do in Pantelleria, which is great news if you’re not there for a ‘beach holiday. Although technically there aren’t any beaches as there are no sandy beaches, just swimming spots with decks or rocks.

Here are some of the best things to do when you visit Pantelleria.

Wine tasting at Donna Fugata

There are quite a few vineyards on the island and Pantelleria is most famous for a sweet dessert wine called Passito (which is Italian for ‘raisin’).

Donna Fugata is popular for wine tastings so I recommend booking in advance if you want to visit. They actually have vineyards around Sicily and you get a little passport, where if you visit them all you get a free wine tasting.

The setting is not as pretty as Coste Ghirlanda – and it’s a different experience as it’s an organised wine tasting – but we really enjoyed it. Firstly you are shown around where they produce the wine, then you go outside to taste four wines whilst your expert explains the wine and you’re invited to try certain foods with it to see how the taste changes.

Wine tasting at Donna Fugata in Pantelleria

After the wine tasting, you end the tour in the vineyards where you get to try what Pantelleria is famous for – a sweet dessert wine called Passito. It’s absolutely delicious! The tour cost €35 per person and takes around an hour and a half.

Kirsty enjoys a glass of Passito in the vineyards at Donna Fugata in Pantelleria

Swim in Specchio di Venere

When you’re coming in to land in Pantelleria, you fly over Specchio di Venere and it’s so impressive!

This heart-shaped lake is called Venus’s mirror and it’s been formed naturally from a volcanic crater. The water is incredibly blue!

Specchio di Venere in Pantelleria

The water and mud is also therapeutic and people cover themselves in the mud and let it dry. We didn’t do this as it was rather smelly!

Unfortunately on a couple of days when we visited, there were lots of jellyfish so we couldn’t swim in the sea. The lake offers a good alternative on those days. It’s also huge so was never crowded.

There are also two places to eat so no need to bring food and drink with you. One is more a restaurant and the other is more casual, where you can also buy food to take away.

Panelle and salad at Specchio di Venere in Pantelleria

Dinner in a vineyard

We were actually recommended Coste Ghirlanda by the son of the owner of the resort we were staying at as he’s passionate about wine. It’s also quite close to the resort – about a ten minute drive away.

Aperitivo setting at Coste Ghirlanda in Pantelleria

We went one night for Aperitivo and loved the setting so much that we booked dinner for another night. There’s something so wonderful about being surrounded by nature.

Kirsty enjoying a glass of wine at Coste Ghirlanda in Pantelleria

The vineyard produces only a small selection of wine and no sparkling wine. Aperitivo is fairly expensive if you don’t take advantage of the wine as it’s a set price of €30 per person. You get also get some nibbles such as olives, taralli and small dishes from the chef.

travel e island pantelleria

When we returned for dinner, it was absolutely magical! The setting is just unbelievably beautiful and the food was delicious. In fact we had the best pasta of our trip at Coste Ghirlanda.

The restaurant at Coste Ghirlanda in Pantelleria

Hire a boat

The best way to see an island is by boat! We hired a boat one day and went all around the island, stopping to swim along the way. The great thing about having a boat is that you get to swim in places that are only accessible by boat.

You can either hire your own boat or join a boat excursion tour.

Pantelleria by boat

Being on a boat also gives you a great view of the landscape of the island. I’ve been to lots of Italian islands and some of them are quite arid, with not much vegetation. I was really surprised by how green and vibrant Pantelleria is. The scenery is beautiful.

There are levels of stone walls, which are built to protect plants and crops from the wind and you can see this all around the island.

Houses in Pantelleria

Enjoy a hot spring

There are a number of natural hot springs around the island, thanks to its volcanic past. We found one in Gadir, however the temperature was around 45 degrees Celsius and we weren’t brave enough to get in! We did overhear a woman who lives on the island who said she takes a bath in one every evening at around 6pm.

Gadir is also a lovely swimming spot with a large deck where you can sunbath. There is also a bar and restaurant here. And depending what time you’re there, a lady arrives selling delicious homemade granita from a little van. In fact, she goes to all the nearby swimming spots so no doubt you’d see her at some point.

Gadír in Pantelleria

Aperitivo at sunset

One of my favourite things to do in Italy is have aperitivo. I’d say Lampedusa had the edge when it came to stunning aperitivo spots to watch the sunset but Pantelleria has some great places too – you just won’t always be able to actually see the sun set.

The best area to see the sun set is in Mursia as it’s the west of the island. A very popular place to go is Sesiventi, where you can watch it from the roof. However… you need to book it in advance and it’s also quite pricey. We managed to go without a booking, however the only seating they had on the roof didn’t face the sea! So we just had a couple of drinks downstairs, facing the sea, and it was great. They have a DJ too so it’s got a great vibe.

Aperitivo at sunset at Sesiventi in Pantelleria

Another lovely place to have aperitivio is La Nicchia in Scauri. It’s also a restaurant and has a little shop. We ended up buying a bottle of the wine we had enjoyed, to take home with us.

travel e island pantelleria

Buy local products

Pantelleria is famous for two products in particular – Passito wine and capers. But of course they also produce lots of other things, such as olive oil, sundried tomatoes and various pastes that you can spread over bread. There are a number of agricultural shops that you can buy local products from, dotted around the island. We bought some capers from the little restaurant in Specchio di Venere, sundried tomatoes from a fruit and vegetable shop by the castle and olive oil and more capers from Azienda Agricola Biologica Emanuela Bonomo.

Visit the castle

Il Castello Barbacane di Pantelleria can be traced back to the Arab or Byzantine period and is one of the most historical landmarks on the island. It was built to protect the sea trade and faces the harbour. You can visit inside the castle and it’s also where the Archaeological Museum of Pantelleria is located.

Il Castello Barbacane di Pantelleria

Admire the Arco dell’Elefante

The Arco dell’Elefante (Elephant’s Arch) is a natural rock formation that, you guessed it, looks like an elephant! Can you see the head and trunk? And maybe even an ear? It’s also a great swimming spot too. Look very closely at the photo below and you’ll see people on the rocks.

Arco dell’elefante in Pantelleria

And if you do hire a boat to go around the island then you’ll see if from a different angle.

Elephant's Arch in Pantelleria

We absolutely adored our time in Pantelleria! Well, apart from the jellyfish. It’s a stunning island with sophisticated restaurants, great swimming spots, beautiful vineyards and delicious food and gorgeous wine – this is why you should visit Pantelleria! I can’t wait to go back.

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Why you should visit Pantelleria

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Kirsty Marrins

Reader, writer, occasional runner, travel lover.

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' data-src=

Hello Kristy! I am thinking to go to Pantelleria this summer. So helpful to read your post. I have a question for you. Are there any taxi service or hire a car driver on the island? I don’t want to drive after drinking at night.

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Hi Hiroko, glad you found it helpful. Yes, there are taxis in Pantelleria. Here are three taxi services with their telephone numbers: Autonoleggio Consolo Noleggio auto scooter Pantelleria +39 338 611 6825, Ammirando Pantelleria +39 389 948 3496, Taxi Driver Di Greco Giambattista Pantelleria +39 333 659 0529

Thank you Kristy! That is so helpful!

You’re very welcome. I hope you have a wonderful time in Pantelleria!

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Copyright 2023 What Kirsty Did Next

  • Pantelleria

Sicily, Italy

  • Ferry Tickets
  • Destinations

Pantelleria is a beautiful volcanic island located between Africa and Europe. Closer to the Tunisian coast than Sicily, Pantelleria is an oasis of tranquility putting a spell on its visitors.

On Ferryhopper, you will find useful information about the beaches, gastronomic delights, and ferries to/from Pantelleria. Check out all the available routes and book your ferry tickets online easily and quickly !

Cherry tomatoes hanging from a window in the town of Pantelleria

Typical windows with hanging bunches of cherry tomatoes

Vacation in Pantelleria

If you are looking for a holiday destination away from the daily routine’s frenetic pace, Pantelleria is the best place to go. Imagine being surrounded by unspoiled nature while enjoying the spectacular sunsets by the sea.

Its jagged coast alongside the island’s eventful history is only a few of the things that make you fall in love with Pantelleria. Its stunning views , the crystalline waters, and the wild hiking trails surrounded by greenery are perfect for a trip with family, friends, and couples.

Besides, it is no secret that Pantelleria is a top destination for a romantic holiday in Italy  as many couples choose the island for their honeymoon.

Therefore, the "Black Pearl of the Mediterranean" welcomes you all year round with its mild temperatures and its warm-hearted inhabitants.

How to get to Pantelleria?

You can get to Pantelleria by ferry or plane . Ferries and hydrofoils to Pantelleria leave from the town of Trapani in Sicily operating all year round. The f astest ferry route to Pantelleria takes about 2.5 hours . You can also find more information about the ferry connections and schedules to Pantelleria.

Pantelleria also has an airport that is connected with some Sicilian cities during the winter and with various destinations in Italy in the summer months .

The lighthouse of Punta Spadillo in Pantelleria

The lighthouse of Punta Spadillo surrounded by greenery

What to do in Pantelleria

Pantelleria offers many things to do and see to its visitors. Among lava stone coves , volcanic lakes, thermal springs , and trekking routes you will be spoiled for choice. Not to mention the depths of the island and its caves, all to be discovered by sea.

Also, try the local cuisine , buy the most famous products, and discover all the secrets of Pantelleria in a wine tasting ! Still not convinced? Read on to discover the best of Pantelleria.

Beaches in Pantelleria

Pantelleria coasts are made up of rocks and lava stone with numerous spots perfect for snorkeling and deep dives.

Here you can find the top 6 beaches in Pantelleria:

  • Levante : this bay sheltered from the winds is located on the east coast. The coast is also family-friendly as it has shallow waters. There, you can relax and sunbathe surrounded by greenery. To get there, you should first arrive at Tracino, take the exit for the beach of Levante, and park along the coast.
  • Bue Marino : very close to the center of Pantelleria, the beach of Bue Marino Basso is famous for its emerald waters. There, you can find a parking area, a bar and comfortable platforms to lie down and enjoy sunbathing. The right side of the coast is great for families with small children thanks to its crystalline, shallow waters. On the other side and only a few minutes walking away, you can reach Bue Marino Alto, a beautiful gulf with breathtaking views and deep waters perfect for diving.
  • Lido Shurhuq : if you are looking for services and amenities, this is the right place for you. Located in the town of Suvaki, the beach of Shurhuq offers a lot of amenities from umbrellas and sun loungers to restaurants and a play area for children. Plus, it’s 100% pet-friendly.
  • Martingana : this natural bay is located on the south-east side with an amazing seabed and lava stone rocks. Therefore, it’s better to have a pair of water shoes with you to avoid the unpleasant feeling of cutting yourself from the rocks. Nearby you can find a small town and a beautiful area filled with vineyards. 
  • Mòdica : located in Mursia, Mòdica is a beach with shallow waters and smooth rocks. Its waters are perfect for snorkeling and easily accessible for everyone. It can be reached by taking a dirt road and then continuing on foot for about 10 minutes. The area has no services but there is a hotel nearby.
  • Balata dei Turchi : it is situated in the southern part of the island and it is a fascinating inlet born from a lava flow. The whole bay is surrounded by 300-meter-high cliffs and the landscape is wild. To reach it on foot it is necessary to take a bumpy road, but you’re going to be well rewarded when you finally get to the beach.

The white rocks of Balata dei Turchi in Pantelleria

The impressive rock formations of Balata dei Turchi in Pantelleria

Sightseeing in Pantelleria

Pantelleria has a rich history dating back to the Neolithic Age. Therefore, the island is full of archaeological sites and museums but also stunning natural attractions.

Here are some of the 11 best places to visit during your stay in Pantelleria:

  • The Arch of the Elephant , an iconic rock formation in the shape of a proboscis
  • The Medieval Castle of Pantelleria , made of lava stone and used as a prison until 1975
  • The Sesi Archaeological Park , extraordinary megalithic constructions present in the area of ​​Mursia and Cimillia
  • The area of Gadìr , famous for its thermal baths
  • The Ondine Lake , a small saltwater pond nestled among the rocks
  • The Pantelleria gardens , traditional lava stone enclosures where citrus trees are grown
  • The picturesque little port of Scauri , perfect at sunset
  • The Lighthouse of Punta Spadillo , surrounded by greenery
  • The Caper Museum , dedicated to the agricultural culture of Pantelleria
  • The Volcanological Museum , located in the Punta Spadillo area
  • The Mirror of Venus , a beautiful volcanic lake famous for its thermal springs

Extra info : according to the legend, Venus used to mirror herself in the waters of this lake making herself beautiful before meeting her beloved Bacchus.

The Mirror of Venus, a volcanic lake in Pantelleria

The Mirror of Venus, a lake with an enchanting beauty

Nightlife in Pantelleria

Despite being a quiet island, Pantelleria transforms into a vibrant scene during the summer months.

Most of the clubs are located in the center of Pantelleria and in the Scauri area . However, you can always find bars and restaurants scattered throughout the island.

Sipping an aperitif after work is one of the favorite moments for locals and visitors. Besides, who doesn't love to enjoy a drink at sunset, right? In fact, among the most popular clubs, there are La Nicchia and Sesiventi, which also organizes evenings with DJ sets .

A must-do experience in Pantelleria is also a visit to the local cellars accompanied by various wine tastings. As for the discos, the Altamarea Club will make you dance until the first light just a step away from the sea.

Food in Pantelleria

Pantelleria cuisine is simple and tasty and mostly follows the Mediterranean diet. Influenced by the culinary traditions of nearby Tunisia  but also by Sicily, the main ingredients of the local cuisine are vegetables, fruits, and fresh fish all accompanied by a glass of local wine Zibibbo .

Here are some delicacies to try during your trip to Pantelleria:

  • Pantesca salad (with potatoes, tomatoes, capers, olives, and onions)
  • bitter ravioli (stuffed with ricotta and mint)
  • spaghetti with anchovies
  • fish couscous
  • fried moray eel
  • tumma (local white cheese)
  • dried tomatoes
  • caper (a PGI-certified product)
  • mustazzoli biscuits, cookies filled with semolina and almonds.
  • baci panteschi (pancakes filled with ricotta cream)
  • Passito di Pantelleria DOC (local wine)

Here are 4 useful tips for your trip to Pantelleria: 

  • If you love trekking, you should know that Pantelleria has a mountain of 836 meters with numerous hiking trails to explore. Enter the paths of the Montagna Grande and reach its top to admire the beautiful African sunsets!
  • Visit the island out of season and experience the magic of Pantelleria Carnival ! This festival lasts 3 months (from New Year's Eve to Shrove Tuesday) involving all age groups.
  • Make sure to book a boat excursion to admire the coast of Pantelleria and its caves.
  • Be sure to pack comfortable clothing and water shoes .

Spectacular caves along the coast of Pantelleria

The coast of Pantelleria, home to a myriad of sea caves!

Useful information about Pantelleria

Pantelleria belongs to the municipality of Trapani with about 7,500 inhabitants. It doesn't belong to any archipelago and its  mild climate makes it perfect at any time of the year.

Pantelleria offers various services and activities for its visitors, and fun is also guaranteed. Given the size of the island, we advise you to stay at least 4-5 days to visit it at its best.

The accommodation options are numerous, and you can choose between hotels, B&Bs, villas, and holiday homes. An experience not to be missed in Pantelleria could be to stay overnight in a dammuso . These traditional stone houses are truly unique and offer beautiful views over the Mediterranean.

If you want to buy some souvenirs in Pantelleria, you should focus on local food products (such as capers and wine), but also on hand-painted ceramics.

As for  health care , the Pantelleria hospital is located near the city center and about 2 km from the port. There are also  4 pharmacies on the island located both north and south.

Important phone numbers for your stay in Pantelleria

Here are some numbers that may come in handy during your island getaway:

  • Municipality of Pantelleria: +390923695011
  • Medical guard: +390923910266
  • Emergency Department: +390923911110
  • Port Authority: +390923911027
  • Municipal Police: +390923912705
  • European emergency number: 112

Transportation in Pantelleria

Pantelleria has an area of about 83 km 2 , so you need a vehicle to move around the island. The best way to get around Pantelleria is by car , also because many paths leading to the coves are not paved.

You can also rent a moped or an electric bike, but you have to bear in mind that the roads are mostly uphill and downhill.

Local buses are managed by Marsala Travel Bus and connect the Pantelleria Center with the various districts and the airport.

As for taxis , there aren't many of them, but some Pantelleria car rentals also guarantee this service.

The white houses of Pantelleria surrounded by greenery

The white houses of Pantelleria and the typical terraces of the island

Ports in Pantelleria

The main port of Pantelleria is located in the northwestern part of the island and is divided into 2 areas : the old port and the new port .

The old port is mostly home to fishing boats while the new port welcomes ferries and hydrofoils from Trapani .

The port area is quite close to the town and some of the island's attractions, such as the medieval castle. The port of Pantelleria is also about 5 km from the airport .

The second port of the island is the  Scauri port , which is located between Punta Pietre and Cala Nikà. It offers some services, such as bars, restaurants, and boat rentals to better explore the coast of the island.

Pantelleria: ferries, schedules and tickets

Ferries to Pantelleria depart from the port of Trapani  in western Sicily and are operated all year round .

The Trapani - Pantelleria ferry route is operated seasonally by Liberty Lines  and Siremar . The trips are active once a day and the crossing can last 2.5 hours or 7.5 hours, depending on the ferry operator and the type of vessel.

As for the ticket price for the Trapani - Pantelleria ferry crossing , the fares start at €37 and the costs vary depending on the period and the company.

If you want to travel with your car on the ferry to Pantelleria, you should know that only Siremar ferries carry motor vehicles. However, you can rent a car or motorbike on the island of Pantelleria from the various local agencies.

Anchored boats at the port of Pantelleria

The port of Pantelleria

Book your ferry tickets to Pantelleria online

Check our Map of ferries to find all the information you need about ferries to Pantelleria, compare companies, trip duration and ticket prices, and organize your trip to the island of Pantelleria easily and quickly . 

Pantelleria ferry timetable

View the complete ferry schedule from and to Pantelleria for the upcoming week. Find up-to-date trip information, including departure and arrival dates and times, ferry operators and ticket prices.

Frequent ferry connections

Nearby destinations, pantelleria has direct ferry connections to 1 ports :.

Italy Segreta

The italian culture magazine, off season on pantelleria: the black pearl of the mediterranean.

“How sublime”

I fell for Pantelleria in just the way I expected to. It wasn’t love-at first sight. It was more slow-burning. A feeling that grew, quietly and intensely, until I was completely infatuated. Rough and raw, shaped from ancient volcanic rock, it has a magnetism rather than a classic Mediterranean beauty. 

Intrigued by its moody performance in Luca Gudagnino’s A Bigger Splash , I’d had my eye on Pantelleria for a number of years. Deep, clear blue water clashes with steep hillsides terraced with vines and dotted with dammuso , the island’s traditional dome-roofed houses. Closer to Tunisia than its parent Sicily, it’s known as the ‘Black Pearl of the Mediterranean’ and attracts and repels in equal measure. 

travel e island pantelleria

During the second London lockdown, a chance exchange over Instagram with Margot and Massimiliano, who run Parco Dei Sesi  on the island, reignited my desire to visit. Messages, voice notes and emails convinced me it was time to go. A person or a place can be the key to unlocking a new destination and I knew this couple and their guest house would be mine to Pantelleria. 

We landed on the island in mid-September. The August rush was over, the fashion set had dispersed and the island was thinning out. Fresh off a small plane from golden, gritty Palermo, where we’d spent a couple of days soaking up its souk-style markets, crumbling Baroque architecture and Norman churches. It was heady and hot, boisterous and brilliant — the perfect foil to Pantelleria’s calm. Here, there is an overwhelming feeling of space and quiet. It has a stillness that’s only ruffled by the wind — its original name in Arabic means ‘Daughter of the Wind’— and the swaying of palms, as each frond tickles its neighbour. 

After picking up the keys to our Fanta-orange mehari, an old buggy-style Citroen you’ll see all over the island, we wound our way down spectacularly narrow roads to Parco dei Sesi where we were greeted by Margot, Massimiliano and an army of cats. After meeting and falling in love on Pantelleria several years ago, the couple packed in their city jobs — she in Paris and he in Milan — to set about transforming Massimilano’s parents’ old dammuso on the western coast of the rugged island. Set within its archeological Sesi park, their guest house is also part artist residency and growing organic farm, complete with its own goats and chickens. Here, its eleven bedrooms rub shoulders with prickly pear cacti and Neolithic ruins dating back 5000 years. You feel antiquity all around and it humbles you. 

Parco dei Sesi is a place where life slows down deliciously and pleasures are simple. A plate for pasta with pecorino, courgette and grapes made by their divine cook Angelo for lunch. Aperitivo shared with fellow guests and new friends.Watching the sunset over the sea from the roof of the grand dammuso . Languorous mornings, reading by the pool. Luxuriating in the warm breeze, practising the Italian art of dolce far niente .

Each morning, during a family-style breakfast of toast and eggs, fruit and yoghurt, fresh ricotta and cakes, we’d ask Margot what the best thing to do that day was. Her answer would always be dictated by the wind. One day, we floated on our backs in the rock pools Laghetto del Ondine while the north wind sent waves crashing all around us, before covering ourselves in the rejuvenating muds of the Lago di Venere and allowing it to bake in the afternoon sun. On the next, a light breeze created the perfect conditions for a boat trip with our fellow guests. Having stocked up on caper-strewn pizzas and giant arancine at the best bakery in Pantelleria, we spent a perfect day circumventing the island in a beautiful old wooden boat with its charismatic captain. We stopped every now and then in secluded inlets and bays, jumping into its lapis lazuli waters, weaving through grottos and swimming into hot springs inside caves.

Some days, we transformed our mehari into a safari jeep. We’d head for the Grande Montagna in the centre of the island, following Margot’s advice to turn off our Google Maps and simply get lost. We’d find ourselves descending into a cloudy plateau, covered in vineyards and olive groves. Impossibly green after the desert-like landscape around our homely base. On another, after an afternoon’s jumping off the old harbour at Cala Tramontana on the eastern coast, we followed another of the couple’s tips to Abazzia San Giorgio, a natural winery run by father and son who host generous weekly tastings that are spontaneous and unadvertised — and soaked up by hearty portions of aperitivo. Buoyed up by locally made orange wines, we drove through vineyards and over the top of the mountain to their final suggestion: 

As Pantelleria slips into off-season, the restaurants begin to close or shorten their hours, so it’s easy to get caught out. We loved lunch at Il Principe e il Pirata (Giorgio Armani’s local) near Cala Gadir and dinner in an old dammuso at Il Giardini del Rodo near Scauri, where we got to know zbibibo, local unfiltered white wines and the traditional flavours of Pantelleria — pistachios, almonds and capers — intimately.

As the months wear on, I imagine life on Pantelleria only slows down further, with time stretching out languorously in front of its few inhabitants and handfuls of visitors. How sublime. 

Photography by Sara Lorusso 

travel e island pantelleria

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How to get to Pantelleria Island

travel e island pantelleria

Pantelleria is reached throughout the entire year by air from Trapani and Palermo transferring from many other Italian airports.

  • from Livorno through Palermo
  • from Naples through Palermo
  • from Genoa through Palermo
  • from Civitavecchia through Palermo

Agenzia Siremar di Trapani Tel. 0923 545455 www.siremar.it

SNAV Lines - www.snav.it Fast ferries Naples-Palermo tel. 081 - 7612348

Grandi Navi Veloci - www.gnv.it/sicilia.asp Ferries to Palermo from Genoa (daily), from Livorno (3 times per week) and from Civitavecchia (3 times per week).

Biglietteria Ustica Lines di Trapani Tel.0923 22200 www.usticalines.it

Aeroporto Pantelleria Tel.0923 911398 www.pantelleriairport.it

Meridiana Tel. 199111333 - 892928 www.meridiana.it

Ryanair Tel.899678910 www.ryanair.it

Some friendly advice

Book your transport well in advance otherwise you risk missing availability. Air One offers the best prices.

Click here to see the map of Pantelleria Sicily

The island of Pantelleria in Italy offers great Outdoor activities and so much more

Wave at Pantelleria coast

Pantelleria is a beautiful island located in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily, Italy. This beautiful island offers an amazing nature, culture and taste experiences.

Outdoor activities in Pantelleria

Pantelleria is a great place for outdoor activities, with its rugged landscape and beautiful coastline offering plenty of opportunities for adventure. Here are some outdoor activities you can enjoy on the island:

  • Hiking: Pantelleria has a network of hiking trails that take you through its stunning natural landscapes, including volcanic craters, hot springs, and beautiful coastal views. Some popular hikes on the island include the Montagna Grande Trail and the Tracino Trail.
  • Snorkeling and scuba diving: The waters around Pantelleria are crystal clear, making it an ideal place for snorkeling and scuba diving. You can explore the island’s many underwater caves and rock formations, as well as its rich marine life.
  • Windsurfing: Pantelleria is known for its strong winds, making it a great place for windsurfing. You can rent equipment and take lessons at one of the island’s many windsurfing schools.
  • Cycling: The island has many beautiful cycling routes, including coastal paths and mountain trails. You can rent bikes on the island or bring your own.
  • Horseback riding: Horseback riding is a great way to explore Pantelleria’s rugged landscapes. There are several stables on the island that offer guided tours.
  • Rock climbing: Pantelleria has several areas for rock climbing, including the Scauri and Specchio di Venere cliffs. You can rent equipment and take lessons from local climbing schools.
  • Beach activities: Pantelleria has several beautiful beaches where you can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.

Add Pantelleria to your bucket list

Bike trails in Pantelleria

As we know that many people visit Pantelleria for the great bike trails we made a list of some of the best bike trails at the island.

Lighthouse Trail

This trail takes you along the western coast of Pantelleria, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the island’s rugged coastline. The trail starts at the lighthouse at Punta Spadillo and follows the coast for about 15 km, passing through small fishing villages and scenic beaches along the way.

Montagna Grande Trail

This trail takes you to the summit of Montagna Grande, the highest peak on Pantelleria. The trail is about 9 km long and offers beautiful views of the island’s volcanic landscape. The trail is challenging and requires a good level of fitness, but the views from the top are well worth the effort.

Specchio di Venere Trail

This trail takes you to the Specchio di Venere, a natural lake in the middle of a volcanic crater. The trail is about 7 km long and takes you through rocky terrain and scenic vistas of the surrounding countryside.

Contrada Buccuram Trail

This trail takes you through the heart of Pantelleria, offering a glimpse into the island’s traditional agricultural landscape. The trail is about 18 km long and takes you through small farms, vineyards, and olive groves, as well as small villages and historic landmarks.

This trail takes you along the eastern coast of Pantelleria, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the island’s rocky coastline. The trail is about 12 km long and takes you through small fishing villages and scenic coves, as well as natural rock formations and other geological wonders.

We also recommend to find trails in apps like Strava .

travel e island pantelleria

Here are some tourist information about Pantelleria

Getting there.

Pantelleria has its own airport, the Pantelleria Airport, which receives regular flights from Italy’s mainland and other European countries. Alternatively, you can also take a ferry from Trapani or Mazara del Vallo in Sicily.

Pantelleria enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate, with long, hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit is between May and September, when the weather is dry and sunny.

Attractions

Pantelleria is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning landscapes. Some of the top attractions on the island include the hot springs at Cala Gadir, the natural sauna at Bagno Asciutto, and the beautiful coastline at Balata dei Turchi.

Food and wine

Pantelleria is famous for its delicious cuisine, which features fresh seafood, local vegetables, and unique dishes like the couscous alla trapanese. The island is also known for its sweet passito wine, made from the local Zibibbo grape.

Accommodation

There are a range of accommodation options on Pantelleria, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and villas. Some of the top-rated hotels on the island include the Hotel Village Suvaki, the Club Levante, and the Resort Acropoli.

There are plenty of activities to enjoy on Pantelleria, including hiking, cycling, and exploring the island’s many historic sites and natural wonders. You can also enjoy watersports like snorkeling, scuba diving, and windsurfing.

Overall, Pantelleria is a wonderful destination for those seeking a relaxing holiday in a beautiful, natural setting. We hope we have given you some inspiration for your trip to Pantelleria!

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Pantelleria: A photo tour of the idyllic island in Italy 

By Jade Simon

L'île de Pantellerianbsp

With the arrival of Spring, photographer Bastien Lattanzio revealed a beautiful travel book about Pantelleria , a sunny, wild island in Italy , where he captured some incredible shots of its wonderful landscapes. We asked him for tips, and about his favorite spots on the island.

L'Arco dell’Elefante  

Bastien Lattanzio : “On the East coast, this lava rock diving into the sea is one of the wonders of the island. You can jump from it, or float in the natural pool created by the currents. I recommend wearing diving shoes to protect your feet against the sharp rocks."

L'Arco dellElefante on Pantelleria

L'Arco dell’Elefante on Pantelleria

The restaurant Il Principe e il Pirata  

“ Il Principe et il Pirata is the best restaurant on the island. Its terrasse offers beautiful sea views, and the menu is incredible: a famous coucous with octopus, or a Bacio PAntesco, a typical dessert that resembles a waffle stuffed with ricotta. It is also known for its assortment of crudo, with 6 fish or other seafood gathered on a slate. It's delicious. Of course, let's not forget its wine menu, offering local wines and Violas of Sicily. I recommend eating a long lunch here, and hosting dinner at home or at a friend's at night, cooking pasta with sausages and fennel for example.”

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Restaurant Il Principe e il Pirata on Pantelleria

Restaurant Il Principe e il Pirata on Pantelleria 

Tenuta Borgia

“The houses on the island are called Dammusi. They're one-floor villas made of lava rock, with the center of the room being enhanced, so you can tan on the roof. My favorite house is Tenuta Borgia , a private community of 5/6 chic Dammusi. The film A Bigger Splash by Luca Guadagnino   was filmed there. "

Tenuta Borgia on Pantelleria

Tenuta Borgia on Pantelleria 

The seaside

“The view is beautiful everywhere on the island, the sea is infinite. The beauty is almost overwhelming at the end of the day when the sun falls into the sea. Watch the show on the roof of a Dammuso with some wine and friend.”

Pantelleria

Pantelleria 

Tanca Nica  

“A small domain of organic wine founded by Franceso et Nicoletta. To buy some, I had to contact the couple and go to the church of their village. Francesco picked me up in his old Fiat and we went to his 3 hectares vines to taste his red, white, and my favorite, the PetNat “Ghirbi”. They produce 3000 bottles a year, preferably drunk on the island. We have become friends, and Nicoletta, who paints the bottles, created the logo for the cover of my book.”

Tanca Nica

Tanca Nica 

“In the port of Scauri, the second city of the island, there is a small fishermen's bar, where, after a boat trip, they come to drink a well-deserved fresh negroni. The military net is used as a pergola and we sit on the steps of the pier, enjoying life.”

Kaya Kaya in Pantelleria

Kaya Kaya in Pantelleria 

The lago di Venere

"La lago di Venere or Venus lake is one of the unmissable sights of the island. Its mud is wonderful and renders the skin very soft."

Le lago di Venere in Pantelleria

Le lago di Venere in Pantelleria 

Get the book Pantelleria by Bastien Lattanzio here

quotPantelleriaquot by Bastien Lattanzio

"Pantelleria" by Bastien Lattanzio

Translated by Maria Atallah

The 6 most picturesque islands in Italy

By Giulia Di Giamberardino

IMAGES

  1. Pantelleria Island

    travel e island pantelleria

  2. Visit Pantelleria Island in Sicily, Italy

    travel e island pantelleria

  3. Pantelleria Island

    travel e island pantelleria

  4. Pantelleria: Italy's secret island

    travel e island pantelleria

  5. Pantelleria Island, Sicily

    travel e island pantelleria

  6. Pantelleria Island

    travel e island pantelleria

VIDEO

  1. Operazione Corkscrew

  2. Pantelleria Island

  3. isola Pantelleria dove il tempo si ferma

  4. POSITANO, AMALFI COAST, ITALY 🇮🇹 A TRUE ITALIAN TREASURE ON THE AMALFI COAST

  5. Viva Pantelleria: Agricoltura Pantesca

  6. Isola di Pantelleria, Agosto 2023

COMMENTS

  1. Pantelleria travel

    Pantelleria. Sicily, Italy, Europe. Halfway between Trapani and Tunisia, this volcanic outcrop is Sicily's largest offshore island. Originally named Bent-el-Riah ('daughter of the wind' in Arabic) for the year-round winds that buffet it, Pantelleria is characterised by jagged lava rock formations, steaming fumaroles and mud baths.

  2. Pantelleria

    Pantelleria is a " black" pearl of rare beauty, an elegant, mysterious and wild Mediterranean island. It is very close to Africa, but the island represents a fascinating and irresistible side of Sicily. Here are 10 things you shouldn't miss if you visit Pantelleria!. Seaside promenade; Pantelleria can be reached by flight or by sea from Trapani.We take a tour of the town in the island ...

  3. The Island Where Italians Go to Play (and Hide)

    Sept. 13, 2018. Known for its shoreline of jagged volcanic cliffs and sea-formed lava inlets, the Italian island of Pantelleria sits southwest of Sicily and just 50 miles east of Tunisia — on a ...

  4. Pantelleria 2024: Best Places to Visit

    We recommend checking out these popular tours when looking for something to do in Pantelleria: 7-Hour Private Yacht Tour on the Island of Pantelleria; Scooter rental in Pantelleria; Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local's home in Pantelleria; Visit to the wonderful Pantelleria! Wandering until Sunset at Benikula Cave

  5. Prenota Soggiorni, Voli Low Cost e Pacchetti

    Pantelleria Island è il tuo tour operator per prenotare Voli low cost e Hotel con i migliori pacchetti, noleggiare auto,e molto altro ancora. Scopri di Più! ... 2017 ©Travel & Island soc. cons. a r.l. - Via Borgo Italia 49, 91017 Pantelleria (TP) - Tel: +39 0923 911266 - 0923 912695 - p.iva 02624390817 - capitale sociale i.v. € 33.000 ...

  6. Pantelleria Island: Must-See Sights And Attractions

    Like most Sicilian islands, Pantelleria was formed from the eruptions of two volcanoes. This makes it a haven if you are a spas lover, as the entire island is dotted with thermal springs. On the flip side, however, the high sulfur content of the water makes it undrinkable. Pantelleria is one of the largest among the numerous Sicilian islands.

  7. Things to Do in Pantelleria

    Things to Do in Pantelleria, Italy: See Tripadvisor's 30,827 traveler reviews and photos of Pantelleria tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in March. We have reviews of the best places to see in Pantelleria. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.

  8. Italy: The Island of Pantelleria, Near Tunisia

    The Elephant, a famous sea arch on the island of Pantelleria, Italy, off the coast of Tunisia. photos by Kristan Lawson. Flying south from Trapani to Pantelleria, a craggy island that's technically part of Italy but only 37 miles off the coast of Tunisia, feels like a ritual passage to another world — especially when you're told that this ...

  9. Travel Guide to Pantelleria, Italy

    There are two ways to see Pantelleria, from the land and from the sea. A drive from one end of the island to the other takes about 45 minutes and can follow several routes. High and winding narrow roads hug the land near the shore; interior roads give a good view of the island's small villages and daily life. Pantelleria's jagged coastline.

  10. Pantelleria: A Down-to-Earth Guide

    Pantelleria: A Down-to-Earth Guide. travel sicily italy. Photos and words by Katie McKnoulty. Pantelleria is paradise for those in search of somewhere down-to-earth and soulful. It's an intense immersion in nature, from the volcanic rocks and springs, to the clean blue waters, dammusi houses made from the earth and open-air scooters and buggies.

  11. Travel guide to Pantelleria: Five Reasons to Visit

    There are over 300 small growers in Pantelleria, which shows the importance of the production, for such a small island. Passito di Pantelleria and Moscato di Pantelleria are two varieties of wine that have been granted the DOCG (Denominazione d'Origine Controllata e Garantita) status, which denotes Italian wines of the highest quality.

  12. Pantelleria

    Pantelleria (Italian pronunciation: [pantelleˈɾiːa]; Sicilian: Pantiḍḍirìa; [pandɪɖɖɪˈɾiːa]), the ancient Cossyra or Cossura, is an Italian island and comune in the Strait of Sicily in the Mediterranean Sea, 106 kilometres (55 nautical miles) southwest of Sicily and 68 km (35 nmi) east of the Tunisian coast. On clear days Tunisia is visible from the island.

  13. Pantelleria

    Pantelleria is located at around 30 miles from Africa and belongs to the province of Trapani, which is among the southernmost parts of Europe. This place is known for its natural hot springs, fantastic sea view and was formed as a result of volcanic eruptions. People come here to view the natural coastline of this region, its pristine beauty ...

  14. Six Days on the Island of Pantelleria, Sicily

    Malta is an island country (an archipelago) and Pantelleria is a comune (a municipality of Sicily). Further, Malta is about four times as big and has at least 40 times more people. Malta is more densely packed. Continuing with the comparison, Malta's high point is Ta' Dmejrek (at the Dingli Cliffs) at 253 m (830 ft).

  15. Why you should visit Pantelleria

    Why you should visit Pantelleria. by Kirsty Marrins on September 19, 2023. Pantelleria is a Sicilian island that can be reached by ferry or by plane. It is known as the 'black pearl' because of the blackness of its rocks, due to its volcanic origin. In fact, Specchio di Venere (Venus's mirror), is a thermal lake that is a former volcanic ...

  16. Pantelleria Travel Guide & Ferry Info

    Pantelleria is a beautiful volcanic island located between Africa and Europe. Closer to the Tunisian coast than Sicily, Pantelleria is an oasis of tranquility putting a spell on its visitors. On Ferryhopper, you will find useful information about the beaches, gastronomic delights, and ferries to/from Pantelleria.

  17. Island of Pantelleria: Discovery Tour

    From Travel & Island, visitors can easily access a variety of dining options where they can indulge in local delicacies like couscous, capers, and Passito di Pantelleria wine. Activity Details Participants will embark on a captivating journey through the island of Pantelleria, seeing its history, nature, and unique landscapes during the 4-hour ...

  18. Off Season on Pantelleria: The Black Pearl of the Mediterranean

    Messages, voice notes and emails convinced me it was time to go. A person or a place can be the key to unlocking a new destination and I knew this couple and their guest house would be mine to Pantelleria. We landed on the island in mid-September. The August rush was over, the fashion set had dispersed and the island was thinning out.

  19. Pantelleria Island Travel Information: How to get to Pantelleria Sicily

    How to get to Pantelleria Island. Pantelleria is reached throughout the entire year by air from Trapani and Palermo transferring from many other Italian airports. Ferries to Palermo from Genoa (daily), from Livorno (3 times per week) and from Civitavecchia (3 times per week). Biglietteria Ustica Lines di Trapani Tel.0923 22200 www.usticalines.it.

  20. The island of Pantelleria in Italy offers great ...

    Pantelleria has its own airport, the Pantelleria Airport, which receives regular flights from Italy's mainland and other European countries. Alternatively, you can also take a ferry from Trapani or Mazara del Vallo in Sicily. Climate. Pantelleria enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate, with long, hot summers and mild winters.

  21. Pantelleria, the paradise island in Italy

    By Jade Simon. 19 avril 2021. L'île de Pantelleria Bastien Lattanzio. With the arrival of Spring, photographer Bastien Lattanzio revealed a beautiful travel book about Pantelleria, a sunny, wild island in Italy, where he captured some incredible shots of its wonderful landscapes. We asked him for tips, and about his favorite spots on the island.

  22. Alison Loehnis's End-of-Summer Trip to the Secret Island of Pantelleria

    Pantelleria is likely the one island in Italy you haven't heard about. It draws a quieter crowd than the usual audience of the Amalfi coast.And while it's 60 miles from Sicily, it's a mere ...

  23. The Island Experience Festival

    For the 2023 edition of The Island, a new initiative is being added: Plenitude is installing a micro-wind turbine with the aim of making the festival and Pantelleria increasingly sustainable. Sustainable experience festival in Pantelleria for visionary people to reconnect with themselves: electronic music, yoga, activities. 1-4 June.