Lipari is the largest and most populated island of the Aeolian Archipelago, characterized by rocky coast, hills and pumice stone beaches which give the sea a crystal clear and beautiful colour. The land area includes mainly mountains, including the two largest: Monte Chirico and Monte S. Angelo. Because of volcanic origin, the island brings to this day one of the finest pumice in the world and it’s well known for this. The island is very reach of picturesque streets, restaurants, bars, caffes, little stores, services and leisure places, it is the island where there is the town hall of the whole archipelagos, except Salina. The local population remained primarily from tourism, growing vines, figs and olives, pumice and fishing. This is an exceptionally nice and crowded place especially during the holidays.
There are 5 towns in the island: Lipari W coast of the island, Quattropani the NW, Pianoconte W of the island, Canneto on the E coast and Acquacalda on the N coast. All towns worth it a visit if you stay longer on the island. As well some small villages which keep nice places to visit.
The largest city and the port is Lipari and has a very long history dating back to ancient times. Its main attraction is the castle surrounded by walls and picturesque towering, built in 16th century by the Spanish. The citadel overlooks the town’s two main harbours, Marina Corta and Marina Longa and the cathedral San Bartolomeo. As well worth a visit is: The Parco Archeologico Contrada Diana, very interesting and of exceptional value, contains the whole history of this archipelago, old Town with many lovely cafes and restaurants, nice walk close to the harbour and port. There is also the Aeolian Museum, located in the Castle of Lipari, and one of the richest Sicilian necropolis, as well as numerous churches and bishop's palace. Outside the city extends the ancient cemetery of Greco-Roman times - well worth a visit. Old Town, the Cathedral, the port. Lipari is the most interesting of the islands in terms of monuments.
In the village of Quattrocchi you can enjoy the picturesque coves and rocks sea and an unparalleled view of the neighbouring island of Vulcano. Value climb up Pelato, from where you can see the Campo Bianco - white as snow depths and flooding of obsidian in Sparanello and Rocche Rosse.
On the island, in San Calogero are Terme di San Calogero, highly popular among tourist’s thermal baths, coming out here hot sulphur spring flow of water which used to in roman times reach up to 60 degrees Celsius, having a beneficial effect on health.
Sailors who likes the beaches should visit Canneto - a small fishing village on the east coast, along which extend many black beaches. Porticello’s pebble beach or Spiaggia Bianca which is a popular beach of pumice sand. The top bathing beach is the tranquil di Vinci only accessible across fields of high grass or by boat.
The island is provided with marina, ports, floating wharfs and many anchorages, where you can find protection from all winds. Most of them located on the eastern side of the island: Marina Lunga, Marina Corta and Pignataro. Without doubt Lipari is great starting point or stop off while on sailing holiday around wonderful Aeolian Islands.