Vulcanello

Back in history, in 183 B.C., the small volcanic island of Vulcanello (123m/404ft) rose out of the sea to the north; it became extinct in the 19th century. It is linked to the main island by a narrow isthmus, to the sides of which lie the harbors of Porto di Ponente, in the west, and Porto di Levante in the east, the latter with landing-stages for ships, and both with tourist facilities. The main beach of fine lava sand is 500m/550yds long and lies in the west harbor; near the east harbor are a thermal basin and the thermal springs known as "acqua di bagno".

A road 8km/5mi long through the island leads to Monte Aria. It is also worthwhile climbing Gran Cratere with its sulfur vapors (one hour) and walking to Vulcanello (half an hour