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Panarea is the smallest and most famous of the Aeolian Islands, located in the north of Sicily.
It’s beauty is beyond comparison, mother nature really has blessed this island.
This small gem seems to attract celebrities and billionaires. So, while you don’t need to be one to visit, it can certainly be challenging if you are on a tight budget. It’s one of the most expensive getaways on the Mediterranean.
Raya is called by many the “cult hotel” of Myriam Beltrami, awarded in 2004 with the Marco Polo Award from the choice of an international public as the best “hotel de charm” of the Mediterranean. It is definitely a place for nature lovers as the serenity and tranquility will definitely allow you to find yourself.
A peculiar and interesting characteristic of the island is that there are no cars, only golf cars that serve the island as taxi cabs and vespas! Although you can walk everywhere and after 2 days you basically know everyone on the island! Truly magical!
HOW TO GET THERE
Plane to Palermo and then boat, helicopter or plane to Cartagena or Naples and then boat to Panarea.
WHERE TO STAY
At the amazing and unique Raya Hotel. It has the most breathtaking view!
The pool there is also one of the most beautiful saltwater pools ever, you will get a tan in no time!
The staff is amazing and truly welcoming!
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WHAT TO DO
Rent a boat and go around the island, snorkel, and see the bubbles from the volcano. Go to the only sand beach in Panarea and trail to the only ruins there, but only if you don’t suffer from vertigo!!
Visit other islands.
In Salina it’s better to rent a vespa to do a day trip or a mini car at Buongiorno rental just by the port. The movie “Il Postino” was shot there, Pablo Neruda also had a house there.
To find the sea just follow the plaques “mare”, there are some amazing small restaurants there.
Visit Stromboli Island, where Domenico and Stefano from Dolce & Gabbana.
have an amazing villa!
In Volcano island the volcano is still in eruption!
WHERE TO EAT
Raya hotel has amazing food and if you are not staying there or eating there you will for sure end your night there. Stunning terrace, cool vibe!
Lista Bianca is a good place to go in the afternoon. You must eat the tri-Tartare; an amazing fresh tartare from the sea circulating the island! Ah, and go there for gelato too.
Bridge sushi bar is the place for Japanese food and a good party mode at the weekend! You can also go just for drinks! The food is super fresh and delicious! Say hi to the coolest waitress Joana!
Hychesya has amazing food! They have no view so when you get there it will be a bit like “what am I doing here” but once they bring the food you will hear that “WOW” inside your head! This is also a place with a good wine list!
Broccia restaurant is the place for good traditional food.
Go to Tratoreria de Francesca for amazing snacks and also for a good meal at the restaurant.
WHERE TO SHOP
Well there is only one place heheh, Antonio’s Bouganville boutique. It has amazing stuff and when I say amazing, I mean it.
I wanted the entire shop from cool Australian, Italian, Spanish and other countries brands to Dolce & Gabbana and Missoni… they also have outlet pieces, just ask. Say hi to Antonio he is super!
FOR KIDS
It’s a relaxed and safe place to visit as a family, I think out of 10 I would rate it as a 7 for kids!