Guide of Lampedusa

Lampedusa is one of the most popular destinations for sun, nature and underwater fishing and is the last trace of Italian territory before you reach the African coast. The name Lampedusa was probably chosen because of the flashes of lightning that occur during frequent storms that illuminate the island and made it visible to sailors far out in the Mediterranean sea.

On the border between two continents, Lampedusa possesses the environmental characteristics of both. It is only 70 miles from Tunisia and 109 miles from Sicily. The north and west coast of the island is quite high and inaccessible, while its eastern and south-eastern coasts boast magnificent sandy beaches. There are small and hidden beaches along with larger more populated ones, making this island suitable for everyone's taste.

Places to visit

Be sure to visit Isola dei Conigli, one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole Mediterranean. It is a marine protected area due to its population of sea turtles who lay their eggs there. This place is a natural masterpiece and can also be reached by swimming as it is only 100 meters from the coast, through a stretch of water that is just over 3 meters deep.

If you walk to the other side of the island, there is a natural submerged arch that has been colonized by orange-coloured madrepore, coloured sponges, red shrimps and lots of other marine fauna.

During the hottest nights of the summer, there are many events held which tourists can participate in there are bonfires, spaghetti, barbecues, and musical performances all over the island. There are local dishes to try, including the fish couscous, which mixes African and Sicilian flavours. On Lampedusa, the locals add shrimp, lobster and seafood and accompany the dish with deliciously cold white wine. Finally, if you are a fan of walking there are some great routes that reach the three peaks of the island, Monte Rosso, characterized by a cultivated crater, Monte Nero and Monte Vulcano.

Beaches

We firstly recommend the beautiful coves of Cala Pisana and Cala Uccello that open onto an emerald-coloured clear sea. Also Cala Spugna and Maluk, which are located on the east end of the island. Cala Greca is smaller and covered with white sand. One of the best-kept secrets on this island is Cala Galera, which is accessible via the low cliffs, there is also a cave and the water is very calm here. Cala Francese is spectacular and Guitgia beach is one of the most famous and also has hotels nearby and is accessible by public transport. From here you can also reach Cala Croce, Cala Madonna beach and Porto N'Tone, which is a very picturesque beach on the southern coast.

 The colour of the sea in Lampedusa is exceptional and varies between cobalt blue and turquoise. On the southern side of the island, there is also Cala Pulcino, which has many caves nearby. The sea is crystal clear and the seabed is abundant with flora and fauna, perfect for divers. There are numerous diving spots around the island which permit both day and night dives. One enjoyable dive is to the underwater statue of the Madonna del Mare and is about 14 meters deep and surrounded by polyps and bream burrows. Be sure to take a 3 or 4-hour boat trip around Lampedusa to really take in the beauty of its beaches, coves and small ports.