Salina Outdoor Activities: Top 5 Adventures on the Island

So, you’re thinking about visiting Isola di Salina, right? That’s awesome! Salina is that green gem of the Aeolian Islands, offering some really amazing outdoor experiences. It’s almost like stepping into a postcard. Unlike some of the other more well known Aeolian Islands that have loads more tourists, Salina has somehow maintained its authentic charm. With that in mind, Salina is a good pick for anyone looking to step back from very frantic places, wanting somewhere a bit quieter and steeped in genuine Italian character. This detailed guide goes over, the most exciting and interesting things that you can do on this beautiful island. I think that you’ll love what’s on offer, honestly.

1. Hike Monte Fossa delle Felci

Right, first up we have hiking Monte Fossa delle Felci! Now, that’s the tallest peak on Salina and, in a way, the whole Aeolian archipelago. The hike there gives a chance to actually walk up through forests that, generally, feel almost subtropical. So, it’s a cool escape from, in fact, those hot Italian summer days. You might find that there are several routes, many of them are manageable even for less experienced hikers. Yet, you’ll discover that the view from the summit is just beyond description! Looking down, the entire island spreads out, framed by the deep blue Mediterranean. That sight really sticks with you!

There’s just a trail that goes up towards the top and it is clearly marked, starting close to Valdichiesa. I suggest, as a matter of fact, wearing good walking shoes, bringing enough water, and maybe even a snack. The hike usually takes maybe, around 2 to 4 hours depending, as you may know, on your pace. The trails often tends to be well maintained. Still, certain areas may be steeper than others, so you want to take things gradually and surely. The sense of accomplishment after arriving at the summit is really very worthwhile. That feeling really never gets old!

So, you’ve got an opportunity to see loads of different types of plantlife as you hike. That’s due, usually, to the mountain’s rich volcanic soil, that tends to nurture that broad range of species. Birdwatchers, might be able to glimpse different species of birds living around those dense forests. This very natural and beautiful experience should be the highlight of visiting the island for nature lovers, especially! See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Salina island hiking trip)

2. Explore Pollara Beach

Ok, next up there is Pollara Beach – famously, the backdrop from the film “Il Postino”. This location isn’t your ordinary beach. What’s really striking about this beach is that is found right inside an ancient volcanic crater. That backdrop actually makes it so visually spectacular! The journey there involves, basically, walking down a path. Although, in certain sections, this walk might be a bit challenging. Yet, honestly, that scene is well worth the effort you need to make to get down there. The beach gets loads of sun until early afternoon. If you’re looking to spend all day there, it’s useful to get there really quite early.

In some respects, the water at Pollara is beautifully crystal clear, ideal when swimming and snorkeling. It really is! That setting is just almost great for sunbathing too. That is when you want to soak up a bit of that Mediterranean sun. Do be mindful to carry umbrellas as you know there aren’t, generally, loads of shaded spots at Pollara. One of the highlights actually happens at sunset. So, if you’re still there at that point, the views honestly become ridiculously amazing. With those high cliff walls colored brilliantly with orange and red. I would very much call that pure magic! A truly remarkable experience.

Many people say this little beach is what you have to see on Salina. In a way, they may be right. You could find yourself returning there often. Its distinctive natural charm causes it to stand out in a long list of already memorable places! The calmness, as well as the dramatic background, makes Pollara just really perfect to wind down and feel fully immersed in the island’s wild landscape. A visit there would probably give you really fond memories. It’s what makes people feel connected with the beautiful and captivating nature of Salina! Read our full review: explore Salina beach crater Full Review and Details

3. Take a Boat Tour Around the Island

Ok, another superb activity would probably be to take a boat tour round the island. Honestly, it is a really superb method to experience Salina from a totally different angle. Many local operators generally offer tours that typically leave from the ports of Santa Marina Salina or Rinella. These boat tours usually pass all the most remarkable parts of Salina’s coast. In other words, expect to see loads of hidden coves, caves only accessible from the water, and stunning views from the sea.

Almost certainly these tours generally involve stops for dips in the cleanest, blue seas. So you could swim around different spots just a little way offshore. You also find some tours that offer the equipment to go snorkeling, enabling you explore what happens below the surface. That coastal scenery genuinely delivers a brilliant showcase of what this volcanic island is all about! On board the boats, the vibe usually tends to be laid back, with captains usually quite keen to share stuff concerning the history as well as local stories of the area. That really makes the journey extremely informative, not just amazing scenery wise.

Tour rates can vary. Still, a standard half day trip normally starts at maybe, around €50 per person, give or take, and include those onboard refreshments. When you want that full experience it makes perfect sense, especially if you have limited time on Salina. You should expect just a spectacular trip whatever the weather. Very good memories come as standard! You just simply relax. Everything is generally taken care of. From that you could really just enjoy the view of one of Italy’s gems! See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Salina island boat trips)

4. Visit the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Terzito

As a matter of fact, we need to touch on a cultural spot, and visiting the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Terzito surely fits that bill. This delightful little sanctuary, in fact nestled at Valdichiesa, that attracts loads of visitors for two primary reasons. It’s really pretty interesting history. And the gorgeous landscape around it!

This church has kind of deep significance to the island’s people, holding a really important place in regional traditions. Locals as well as tourists generally flock there, usually, especially around festival days, taking an opportunity to be part of community occasions. Those decorations around the church is probably beautiful! Its quiet atmosphere delivers the kind of ideal environment that inspires contemplation. The views you get around the church stretch over those undulating hills of Salina, that provides the photo opportunities.

Arguably, it is most likely a good spot just for people who admire architecture, faith, and photography. If you were thinking of traveling to the church, please confirm those visitor times in advance. Specifically with respect to services that might possibly be happening when you get there. Taking a stop over at the Sanctuary would add this enriching cultural point to your trips when discovering all the outside activities of Salina. That will surely provide a fuller look at this beautiful island! Read our full review: Salina cultural sanctuaries Full Review and Details

5. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

For everyone curious about the deep, it would probably be a good idea to go Scuba diving, as well as snorkeling around Salina’s shores. The underwater environment hosts crystal water and lots of aquatic species! Several dive locations are out there around the island. From what I recall, they tend to be suited for different abilities. With that in mind, anyone from first timers right up those advanced divers will find a diving spot which appeals to them. Usually, you might see an abundance of wildlife while underwater, perhaps, just like colorful fish as well as octopuses.

Actually, many dive shops and places tend to provide equipment for rental together with directed tours which means you could quite readily and safely experience Salina’s underwater environment. Common diving locations may well include spots around Rinella and also close to Pollara, which generally have visibility under the water of typically over 10 metres, often better! When it comes to anyone preferring something somewhat less intense. Actually, you might consider snorkeling. Places just like Pollara, but also Santa Marina offer amazing possibilities there to check out sea life close to those shallows. A regular excursion out under the sea enables you to find out all the wonders tucked beneath Salina! Read our full review: Salina diving and snorkeling Full Review and Details