Beyond the westernmost point of Sicily, beyond the confines of the western sea, the Egadi (Aegadian) Islands stand out against the Caribbean blue of a dreamy sea. You’re surely familiar with them, you’ve certainly heard of them, and the latest cinematic success—The Odyssey, by Nolan—partly filmed here has further relaunched them as a holiday destination. But if you want to approach this small archipelago, do so with a deep and interested spirit, not with the superficiality typical of “overtourism”… which has already caused damage here, forever erasing one of the islands’ delicacies: spices. Come here to discover, beyond the beauty of the beaches, the history rooted in the people’s smiles and their hospitality. We will pick you up at Palermo Airport (PMO) or the closer Trapani Birgi Airport (TPS) and take you to the hydrofoil dock, towards your most beautiful dream.
Egadi: islands of history
Sicily has always been a land of conquest. From east and west, it has received populations and cultures from every corner of the Mediterranean and even from much further afield. The Egadi Islands, located off the coast of Trapani, are a small summary of Sicily’s long history.
The Greeks called them Aigatai, meaning “land of goats,” and almost completely ignored them; first the Phoenicians, and then the Romans, used them as lookout points and defenses. The military forts and prisons were the symbol of these three islands for many centuries until, in the 11th century, they were colonized and purchased by Norman nobles. This is where the fortune of the Florios, a famous family of Sicilian entrepreneurs, grew, and they were the first in the world to trade in tuna in oil.
History is present everywhere on Levanzo, Favignana, and Marettimo (but the rocks of Maraone, Formica, Galera, Galeotta, Preveto, and Fariglione are also part of the archipelago): both on the surface and on the seabed, where the wrecks of thousand-year-old boats laden with treasures occasionally surface. Come and breathe it in, along with the scent of the sea.
Levanzo, the romantic
Levanzo is the smallest of the Egadi islands, but it’s the first you encounter once you set sail from Trapani. With its pristine landscapes, crystal-clear sea, and tranquil pace of life, it’s an ideal destination for those who want to escape mass tourism and immerse themselves in nature. The island is inhabited by just a few hundred people, and its only town, Cala Dogana, welcomes visitors with whitewashed houses, a small harbor, and an authentic, relaxed atmosphere.
An ideal place for romantic sunset strolls and aphrodisiacal dinners, Levanzo also boasts a remarkable historical heritage: the Genovese Cave, for example, is famous for its engravings and cave paintings dating back to the Paleolithic and Neolithic periods. This extraordinary archaeological site testifies to human presence on the island since prehistoric times and is considered one of the most significant in the Mediterranean. A visit to the cave allows you to discover a precious historical and artistic heritage.
Levanzo’s coasts offer numerous coves accessible on foot or by boat, where you can swim in clear waters and snorkel, observing a rich marine life. The trails that crisscross the island also allow you to explore the area, offering spectacular views of the sea and the other Egadi islands.
Favignana, Daughter of the Wind
Favignana is the largest of the Aegadian Islands and owes its name to the word Favonius, the Roman term for the warm west wind. Also known as the “butterfly island” for its distinctive shape, it is one of the most fascinating tourist destinations in the Mediterranean thanks to its picturesque beaches and rich history. Its transparent waters, ranging from turquoise to deep blue, attract thousands of visitors from around the world every year.
Among the island’s most famous attractions is Cala Rossa, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy, characterized by white rocks and a clear sea. Other popular locations include Cala Azzurra, Bue Marino, and Lido Burrone, ideal for relaxing, snorkeling, or diving. Favignana is also famous for its tuna fishing tradition. In the past, the island’s tuna fishery was one of the most important in the Mediterranean, and today the former Florio Factory Houses a museum that tells the history of fishing and the famous “mattanza,” an ancient tuna-catching technique.
The town is quiet and welcoming, with squares, restaurants, and shops where you can savor typical Sicilian specialties, such as fish couscous, tuna prepared in various ways, and almond-based sweets. Thanks to its mild climate, natural landscapes, and relaxing atmosphere, Favignana is an ideal destination for both those seeking a beach vacation and those eager to discover local history, culture, and traditions.
Marettimo, far away
The island of Marettimo is the westernmost, most remote, and wildest of the Egadi archipelago, located off the western coast of Sicily. Thanks to its isolated location, Marettimo has preserved an extraordinarily pristine natural environment, characterized by crystal-clear waters, limestone mountains, and rich biodiversity. The island covers approximately 12 square kilometers and is dominated by Mount Falcone, which reaches a height of over 680 meters, offering spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea.
The small village of Marettimo is composed of white houses overlooking the harbor, where fishing still represents one of the main economic activities. Maritime traditions are deeply rooted in the local culture and are reflected in the typical cuisine, rich in fresh seafood dishes, such as seafood couscous and pasta with lobster. The island is an ideal destination for nature lovers and especially scuba diving enthusiasts. Its best attractions are found at sea: sea caves accessible by boat, including the Grotta del Cammello and the Grotta della Bombarda, famous for the play of light created by the sun reflecting on the water; submerged shipwrecks; and the flora and fauna of the seabed.
From a historical perspective, Marettimo preserves important vestiges of its past, such as the remains of the Roman House and the Punta Troia Castle, an ancient fortress used for centuries for defense and later as a prison. Today, Marettimo is the perfect destination for those seeking a healthy, active holiday, as in addition to swimming and diving, you can also enjoy hiking and even some rock climbing!
Where to admire the archipelago from above?
If you loved the islands and would love to take a selfie with them all, don’t despair. There’s a way! However, you’ll have to return to the shore, to Trapani, and take the cable car to the top of Erice. Here, immersed in the medieval atmosphere of this village, among stone churches and castles both old and new, you’ll enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the city below and all the islands on the horizon!
