Pantelleria Island Oriented Nature Reserve – Sicily: green craters, dammusi and thermal baths on an island born from fire and caressed by the wind.
The Pantelleria Island Oriented Nature Reserve occupies a large part of the territory of this volcanic island off the coast of south-western Sicily. It is an extraordinary mosaic of lava flows, extinct craters, thermal lakes, woods and terraced crops. Here nature meets rural history, the Mediterranean smells of capers and oregano, and silence is lost between mountains and sea. 🌋 Living geology and lunar landscapes:
Pantelleria is of volcanic origin and its landscapes testify to this: from the obsidian flows of Khaggiar to the caldera of Mount Gibele, up to the beating heart of the Mirror Lake of Venus, a crater filled with thermal water. Fumarolic caves, hot springs and black hills make it a unique place in the Mediterranean.
👉 Tip: Immerse yourself in the sulphurous waters of Lake Venus or experience the natural mud on the shores: regenerating and surrounded by a surreal panorama. 🌿 Scrub, vines and Pantelleria gardens:
The reserve protects an extraordinary biodiversity, with holm oaks, Aleppo pines, mastic trees and cistus. The cultivated terraces are home to the famous capers of Pantelleria and the sapling vines of Zibibbo, cultivated according to an ancient agricultural technique recognized by UNESCO. The Pantelleria gardens, lava stone constructions, protect citrus fruits from sea winds.
👉 Tip: Visit a local farm to learn about traditional farming methods and taste passito, oil, and caper preserves. 🥾 Trails, caves and wild views:
The hiking network of the reserve allows you to cross woods, lava ridges and panoramic heights such as Mount Gibele and Monte Grande. Some paths lead to natural thermal caves, such as the Benikulà Cave, where you can sit on hot stones surrounded by the scent of the maquis.
👉 Tip: Set off in the morning on the Khaggiar trail and end with a bath in the warm waters of the Dry Bath: a complete excursion between geology and relaxation. 🏡 Hospitality between dammusi and silence:
The island offers typical accommodation in dammusi, lava stone buildings with domed roofs, often surrounded by vineyards and rosemary. Farmhouses, restored houses and Pantelleria style residences offer simple hospitality overlooking nature. The local cuisine enhances local products, including couscous, fresh fish, passito and almond desserts.
👉 Tip: Choose an inland accommodation to enjoy absolute tranquility and starry nights between the black lava profiles and the clear sky.
In Pantelleria, each stone tells a story of fire, wind and resistance: exploring it is like walking a thin line between wild land and ancient culture.