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Of all the Aeolian Islands, Stromboli is the most beautiful,
a sheer volcanic rock rising from the sea. If you dare to
brave it alone you can sleep on the foothills of 3000ft Mt
Stromboli, an active volcano, and witness the onslaught of
throbbing hot pieces of lava.
You can take a day trip to Stromboli, but it is better to
stay at least one night in order to climb the volcano and
see the dramatic lava flows and explosions against the night
sky. It's a 3 hours strenuous hike from the village base to
the summit.
How to get there
Cars cannot be taken to Stromboli village or the nearby village
of Ginostra, so travelling in from Napoli by ship, hypdrofoil
or small boat is the only option and then hike by foot.
Where to stay
The population of Stromboli during the summer months goes
from about 500 locals to 7000, so you've got to book your
accommodation well in advance. Hotels are expensive and a
room in a pensione (hostel) costs about $35.
If you're planning a longer stay, there are hotels and guest
houses on Stromboli but during the winter or high season (July
and August) accommodation can be a problem so remember to
book ahead.
Hiking Tips
- If you're not fully equipped you can buy hiking gear from
Stromboli.
- Before you set out, take a trip to the visitor centre near
Scari where you can find out more about the geology of this
mystical and mighty volcano.
- You'll need a guide in order to climb who will take you
all the way to the summit, and you'll find one at the San
Vincenzo church square. It's not only illegal but dangerous
to climb the volcano alone - as the weather may turn and fog,
thunderstorms, falling rocks and with all that active lava
can lead to a nasty accident. A guide will be better equipped
to anticipate the mighty volcano's moods.
- To make the most of the fantastic night time fireworks,
the parties leave in the afternoon staying at the summit until
late at night. During the summer tours depart at midnight
until the early morning.
- You should never sleep on the top, as occasionally there
can be massive lava explosions, so the very top of the mountain
should be climbed with a guide.
Equipment Essentials
Flashlight, food, water, hiking boots, sun protection and
wind protection.
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