Vulcano - Spiaggia delle Acque Calde

About Vulcano - Spiaggia delle Acque Calde

Vulcano is the Aeolian island closest to Sicily, and it is literally an active volcano you can reach by ferry. Next to the port, in the Baia di Levante, is the Spiaggia delle Acque Calde (Hot Water Beach): here volcanic gases rise from the seabed, forming columns of bubbles and warming the sea, creating a kind of natural whirlpool a few metres from the shore.

The water temperature isn't constant: it depends on how close you get to the emission points and on the depth. In some spots the sea is decidedly warm, in others it feels like a normal summer swim. According to guidebooks, this stretch of sea stayed accessible even when the nearby mud pool was closed.

The beach is public and free, a few minutes' walk from where the hydrofoils dock. The bottom is dark sand, with rocks in places, so water shoes are useful. The smell of sulphur hangs over the whole area and tends to blacken silver and ruin light-coloured swimwear: better to wear an old swimsuit and leave your jewellery at the hotel.

Vulcano is still an active volcanic island, constantly monitored: in recent years gas emissions have led to periods of restrictions in some areas. Before you go, always check the orders of the municipality of Lipari, follow the signs and don't linger where the gas is strongest, especially with children.

A day on Vulcano can include the climb to the Gran Cratere, with a spectacular view over the whole archipelago, and a swim at the Spiaggia delle Sabbie Nere (Black Sand Beach) on the other side of the isthmus. Hydrofoils leave from Milazzo and also connect Lipari and the other islands.

To make the most of the experience, avoid the middle of the day in August, when the beach is at its busiest and the sun on the black sand is scorching. Late spring and early autumn offer a sea that is still warm, fewer people and perfect light for photographing the port, the sea stacks and the outline of the Gran Cratere.