Stromboli is a place of legends and approaching the island was intimidating to say the least (*we were all left with our mouths wide open). Smoke gushing out of the active volcano and random mini eruptions (that occur several times a day) could be seen from afar and onboard, everyone gasped in unison at the sight ahead.
The island has been almost untouched by modernization and architectural renovation. There are no streetlights or cars, only the rugged nature of the island, with its slopes and its beaches made of black sand. And most importantly, the bursts of fire from the volcano that burn day and night (*still couldn’t get over this – the volcano could go off at any moment).
The volcano is around 1,000 meters high, but its main vent extends as deep as 2,400 meters below sea level. The peak is often clouded by clouds and dust and always gives an eerie yet magnificent impression. Nature on the island is untamed and tourism is a different experience altogether (*it definitely isn’t the next hot spot for a destination wedding). The locals are on guard everyday, silence fills the air and every few meters on the narrow sloping streets are signs and instructions for immediate evacuation in case of an eruption (*quite ominous to say the least).
The half of the island where we docked was inhabited leaving the back half completely untouched. We could see the clear path the lava has made over the years as constant eruptions wipe out all in their way (*just a steep black slope). Life on the island is defined by the volcano, the land and the sea.
Nightfall approaches and we head back to the boat. Dinner is served; a plate of freshly cooked pasta and fresh fish with white wine on the docked boat was heaven (*the crew were brilliant cooks as well). During dinner, the captain steered us gently away from the island and by the time we finished eating, we could climb on the top deck to watch the glorious setting sun. It was a sight to behold next to the smoking volcano.
The sea was rough on our way back to Lipari but we stayed on the top deck with the fresh air blowing through our hair and the stars over the open sea were the only light in the darkness.
karibu 