What do you do when you are on an island for an extended period of time? You go to a smaller nearby island. Sorry for the random thought, but I think its funny how many islands we have been to over the past couple years. We might have an obsession with them or maybe some type of “hermit” psychological brain condition that we should spend some time looking into. But who has time for that when there are so many islands to visit in the Mediterranean. MUST SEE more islands. One thing that I like about islands is that they always have their own identity. Lipari definitely has its own identity despite the fact that it is less than an hour away from Sicily via hydro boat (or is it hydrofoil? Where does the foil come in? haha) Lipari is part of the Aeolian Islands (pronounced A-O-Lee-En) that are just north of Sicily in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Lipari is the most popular and largest of the 7 island chain. We have gone to some of the other islands, which you will have to wait for posts on in high anticipation. (meager cliff hanger attempt)
Back to Lipari… our original trip to the island was a about a year ago with Jessica’s parents when they were here visiting. It was a great experience exploring the island and enjoying the local food and wine. We took a private boat ride around the island, which was one of the highlights of the trip. The water is extremely clear (pics below) and viewing the island from the water gives you a totally different perspective and appreciation.
Just a few sentences in the name of history… Lipari was known during neolithic times (estimates are around 5000 B.C. !!!) for its obsidian. This volcanic glass was treasured for its ability to hold a sharp edge. (weapons, knives, arrowheads). How easy do we have it today? For some reason I just thought of this scenario between a husband and wife during this time… “Honey we could use a new knife… Im going to sail treacherous seas on our rickety raft, that is probably as safe as a blow up alligator, to pop into Lipari and barter for some volcanic rock … dont worry I’ll be right back it should only take a few months or so” Nowadays I can remain sedentary and order a knife, that will cut through a shoe, to come to me! There is more about Lipari’s history that I have to cover, but it will have to wait for the next Lipari post. (these cliff hangers are so effective judging by my ramp up to 10 site visits) haha.
Overall Lipari is a great little escape. If you have any kind of extended period of time in Sicily this is a must in my opinion. I know its pretty bold to say “You know what… I need to go to an island of the island of Sicily!!” People might think your a little loco, but don’t worry the effect of their name calling wears off. Take it from me..the hermit. Take a boat ride around the island too. The boat ride really puts it all in perspective that you are floating in an amazingly exclusive place. I still think of the color and clarity of the water. Lipari on land is also great, with ancient castles and a vibrant town.
Onto the food and more pictures. After my random history writing above, I have to make this short and blunt: Lipari is infested with capers. If you do not like capers you might want to avoid this island because they are going to sneak them in your stomach. Every dish has a caper or caper berry (there is a difference) thrown in. I happen to enjoy capers, so I don’t have a problem with their obsession. Its definitely a part of their identity. Along with the wine of Lipari, which is Malvasia DOC. Malvasia is known as the nectar of the Gods. It has an golden amber color and is on the sweeter side. Its nice to drink after dinner. Overall the food on the island was very good..especially considering the size of the island.
The restaurants we ate at:
- Gilberto e Vera – Panini shop that has some great sandwiches. Also they are open throughout the day, which is clutch after touring the sites. My favorite panino is the Vulcano, which is on the spicier side.
- Kasbah Cafe – This turned out to be our best dinner of the trip. I was surprised by this because it wasn’t really noted too much on TripAdvisor. It was a recommendation from Diana Brown (our B&B hostess). The appetizers were very unique and delicious.
- E’ Pulera – This restaurant was just “meh”. I had high hopes for this one and it disappointed. Although I did finally get my stuffed squid that I was searching for. It fell flat. Its too bad because they have a cool outdoor patio eating area.
- There were some other restaurants that I will have to get the name of. One pizza place in particular that we liked and visited again our second time to Lipari….so I will put in the next post about Lipari… I promise 🙂
Also wanted to mention our favorite place to stay on Lipari, which is Diana Brown’s Bed & Breakfast. Awesome place in town.
I love Lipari!! Have you gone to the other Aeolian islands?
We have and we love Panarea! Its probably our favorite of the islands. Although we still have to go to Filicudi and Alicudi. Those islands are kinda out there. Have you or anyone reading this gone to these 2 islands that have some tips?
I found your site last week and have been reading all your posts. I love Sicily. You are so lucky to have a chance to live there. I went to Lipari and stayed at Diana Brown on my first trip to Sicily in 2003. I’ve been meaning to go back ever since. This is making me rethink my 2014 vacation plans.
Thanks for the great site. I hope you keep writing!
Thanks for the comment Kelly! I definitely appreciate the motivation to write more. I have been burnt out with writing lately. I am so far behind on trips and such, that I feel overwhelmed. And each post takes a lot longer than I originally planned.
I would defnitely head back to Lipari if I were you. We actually really enjoyed Panarea as well. That island feels even more secluded and is a great experience if you want to mix it up.