Pantelleria, Sicily’s black pearl

Born from the meeting of fire and water, Pantelleria is one of the most fascinating islands in the Mediterranean: a volcanic land suspended between Sicily and Tunisia, shaped by the wind, lava rock and human labour. A walking tour of this land takes you on a journey to discover the island’s most authentic soul, far from the mass tourism trails, amongst coastal paths, ancient terraces, traditional dammusi and panoramic views overlooking the Strait of Sicily. The aim of the itinerary is to explore Pantelleria’s most iconic sites: the famous Specchio di Venere, a thermal lake in the heart of the island; the spectacular cove known as ‘Balata dei Turchi’; the hot springs of Gadir and Nicà, the striking volcanic cones known as ‘cuddie’, and the summit of Montagna Grande, the island’s highest vantage point. The route also winds through the agricultural landscape that makes Pantelleria unique, characterised by kilometres of dry stone walls, terraces planted with capers and Zibibbo grapes, and small rural settlements. The days draw to a close in the traditional Pantelleria dammusi – the characteristic stone dwellings designed over the centuries to offer protection from the sun and wind – whilst savouring the local cuisine and the island’s renowned passito wines.