Holiday apartment in Ginostra: Volcano, Trails and Coast

Ginostra between Volcano and Coast

Ginostra is one of the two inhabited centres on the island of Stromboli. Stromboli is a volcanic island, a nature reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The houses in Ginostra are built entirely in the strictly Aeolian architectural style. They are surrounded by terraced cultivated areas bordered by dry-stone walls, where olive trees and prickly pear cacti grow. Here, a distinctive settlement pattern, cultivated slopes and the natural environment of a volcanic island come together directly.

Volcanic Experiences and Trails

Access to the hiking trails on Stromboli, where Ginostra is located, is regulated depending on volcanic activity by orders issued by the mayor of Lipari. Swimming and navigation in the waters off Stromboli, particularly opposite the Sciara del Fuoco, are also regulated by orders issued by the harbour authority because of the dangers associated with volcanic activity. The regulations therefore concern both the trails on land and the waters off Stromboli.

During a volcanic excursion, the red lava flow of the Sciara del Fuoco can be seen from Ginostra; it is particularly impressive at night. For hiking enthusiasts, the trail from Ginostra to Portella Ginostra reaches an altitude of 800 metres. It runs along the western edge of the Sciara del Fuoco and continues to the Pizzo. From Portella Ginostra, it is also possible to observe the eruptive activity of the southwestern crater. Ginostra therefore offers different perspectives on the volcanic landscape: from the village, along the trail and from an elevated viewpoint.

Piscinette, Coastal Destinations and the Underwater World

The coast also offers discoveries of its own. The Piscinette of Ginostra are natural pools formed when seawater enters between the rocks. In front of Ginostra, at a depth of 15 to 20 metres, lies the wreck of an old military ship. San Lazzaro beach is one of the coastal destinations near Ginostra. Together, these places create a varied picture of the seaside: natural rock pools, a historical relic beneath the water’s surface and a beach on the coast.

Culture and Rural Character

Ginostra is home to the parish of San Vincenzo Ferreri. In 1615, an oratory dedicated to San Vincenzo Ferreri was built on Ginostra’s elevated Timpone on Stromboli. Another insight into the agricultural landscape can be gained along the path from Punta dei Corvi: it crosses dry-stone walls built for the cultivation of capers. In Ginostra, volcanic observation and trails, coastal destinations, religious history and cultivated areas therefore stand alongside one another as distinct themes.

Further Places for Planning Your Trip

Also discover Pianoconte, Alicudi Porto, Filicudi Porto, Acquedolci, Montalbano Di Elicona, Cesarò, Alì Terme and Floresta.

For the higher-level travel overview: Messina.