The incredible 'secret' island that's one of the most beautiful in Europe
This small island is one of the most beautiful in Italy, you might not have heard of it - but it's definitely worth a visit.
Filicudi in Italy is a UNESCO listed island - its perfectly clear waters are home to dolphins and turtles. It can be reached by ferry from Naples and one seventh of the Aeolian Islands.
From the small island, you can watch unforgettable sunsets, soak up the sun and really relax on its quiet beaches. There are a few villages close by which are connected by mule tracks, and here you can find local restaurants serving traditional Italian dishes.
The small island is relatively off-radar for European tourists - but Italians are said to love coming across to experience a little slice of paradise.
It is home to Fossa Felci volcano - and there are plenty of places to see its peak towering over the landscape. It is serenely quiet, as there are not many cars, but explorers can use a scooter to get around and see some of the sights and explore one of the many sea caves.
The best beaches to visit on the island are Solarium Lidalina and Spiaggia del Porto. One visitor said: “We spent three days on Filicudi and ended up at Lidalina on two of the afternoons. The atmosphere is calm, the water is great for swimming and snorkelling and the food is very good.”
Villa La Rosa is a great place to stay on Filicudi, this hotel has a Hawaiian look and a tropical feel. The hotel is about five km from the sea and at the heart of the island. It’s a popular meeting point for locals and offers comfortable rooms with a bar and disco in close vicinity.
One guest said: “We stayed for one night and were treated very well, this hotel is great value for money. The staff are very kind and the rooms are clean with a nice garden.”
For dinner, La Sirena offers a choice of Italian, seafood and Mediterranean dishes. The restaurant has been named by Tripadvisor as one of the top five places to dine on the island.
One diner said: “Try anything, you will like everything! If you like seafood, they offer a choice of raw, fried, or grilled. Everything tastes delicious - it’s a great place for a light and tasty lunch or dinner. You will find exactly what you came for - a great taste from fresh food.”
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Filicudi has a population of around 300 people and is renowned as being one of the least touristy spots to visit in Italy. Relying on neighbouring Sicily for all its produce, locals can pick up their essentials from a small store in the port.