Lampedusa, Lampione, Linosa

Lampedusa

With a history that dates back to the Greeks and Romans, Lampedusa is today best known for its glorious sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. The best beaches are at Cala Mulak, Cala Galera or Spiaggia della Guitgia where the colour of the water ranges from a translucent turquoise to inky blue. Not surprisingly, the island is popular with divers and there are several local diving schools.

The most popular attraction on the islands is turtle watching on the Isola dei Conigli (Rabbit Island), a nature reserve frequented by loggerhead sea turtles who lay their eggs there at night.

Nightlife is focused around Lampedusa town which has a good selection of restaurants serving a menu based on local sea food and dishes that have a distinctly Arabic flavour. Boat tours, bike and scooter hire can all be arranged in the port.

Lampedusa is the only one of the three Pelagie islands with an airport, with direct flights from Palermo, and during summer, from Rome and Milan. Ferry travel is also available, from Porto Empedocle near Agrigento.

Lampione

Just one square kilometre in size, this pocket-sized island is uninhabited and only accessible from Lampedusa. Its only building is a lighthouse but the surrounding waters are a paradise for scuba divers.

Linosa

Car-free and volcanic, Linosa has three volcanoes (Monte Vulcano, Monte Rosso and Monte Nero) and several black sand beaches. The main village, Linosa, has several attractive houses, cafes and restaurants.