Flights to Pantelleria (Italy) what to do and what to rent

ONLINE GUIDE

Here are all our valuable tips, what to do for your holidays flying to the island of Pantelleria, where to stay, and rental options in southern Italy.

You can spend in this Black Pearl of the Mediterranean, whether it’s a long weekend, a week, or even longer. The ideal period extends from spring to autumn.

1 – Caper Museum
2 – Turkish Bath
3 – Big Mountain
4 – Elephant’s Arch
5 – Volcanological Museum
6 – Nymphs’ Pond
7 – Mirror of Venus
8 – Thermal Mud

Exploring Pantelleria is a fascinating experience, an opportunity to discover up close this extraordinary volcanic island.
Admire its terraced vineyards and its crystalline sea. You can delight in the typical local dishes and enjoy moments of relaxation immersed in the captivating Mediterranean Sea.
Alternatively, if you prefer a more active vacation, you have the opportunity to participate in the numerous activities organized on the island.

Where to stay

You can choose from hotel accommodations for your vacation, but the most characteristic and typical option for Pantelleria is renting a dammuso.
These houses, with their typically Arab architecture, represent the essence of the island.
Opting for a dammuso offers a unique experience, immersing completely in the culture and charm of Pantelleria, with the possibility of enjoying a private and authentic space.

Getting Around

You have the option to rent a compact car.
We opted for (and recommend) renting a scooter, picked up directly at the airport, perfectly suitable for exploring the entire island.
(The owner of the dammuso we rented kindly offered to transport our luggage).

Where to eat

In Pantelleria, an island characterized by its rich culinary tradition, you can find several restaurants offering local specialties and delicious dishes.
Keep in mind that the choice may vary depending on your personal preferences and the season. Many restaurants on the island focus on local cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh products and typical flavors.
Before choosing a place to eat, you can also ask for updated local recommendations or explore new places based on the latest reviews.

Specialties of Pantelleria

Passito: A sweet and aromatic wine produced from Zibibbo (or Muscat) grapes grown on the island.
Pantelleria’s passito is renowned for its rich and complex flavor.
Capers: Capers are cultivated in a special way on the island and are known for their quality and unique flavor.
Fresh fish: Due to its fish-rich waters, Pantelleria offers a variety of dishes made from fresh fish, cooked in traditional and creative ways.

What to do and see

Lake of Venus

The Lago di Venere, also known as the “Mirror of Venus,” is a vast natural pool of thermal water located near the village of Gadir.
This thermal pool is formed by the accumulation of rainwater in a natural depression in the volcanic rock, heating up thanks to the underlying geothermal activity and through thermal springs with temperatures ranging from 35 to 38 °C.
The name “Mirror of Venus” is related to an ancient legend that tells how the goddess Venus, after bathing in these thermal waters, admired her reflection in the water mirror.
The pool is also renowned for its healing properties; it’s fantastic to immerse yourself in its relaxing waters.

Thermal Mud Baths

On the opposite shore of the lake, near the thermal springs, you’ll find the thermal mud baths.
These are particularly beneficial for skin cleansing, exfoliation, hydration, and improving blood circulation.

The Natural Turkish Bath

Upon arrival at the parking lot, where you can leave your vehicle, a short ascent begins along a mountain path.
From the top of the cave, the view opens up to a spectacular panorama embracing the Mediterranean scrub, cultivated terraces, and the azure sea in the background.
The cave, capable of accommodating 3/4 people, offers a unique experience as the internal temperature allows for a natural sauna experience.
It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes and bring swimwear and a towel for the sauna.
Don’t forget to also bring water to drink.
This is an absolutely recommended experience for those who wish to enjoy a moment of relaxation and a beautiful view.

Nymphs’ Pond

Marvel at the Nymphs’ Pond, located along the northeastern coast of the island between Punta Spadillo and Cala Cinque Denti.
This picturesque pond, fed by seawater, is shallow and very unique, ideal for relaxation.
To reach it, follow the road towards the volcanological museum until you reach the convenient parking area to leave your vehicle.
From there, continue on foot to the left, following the signs to the pond (opposite direction to the volcanological museum).
Be careful not to dive into the marine waters in front of the pond, as they are deep and subject to strong currents.

Volcanological Museum

The Volcanological Museum of Pantelleria focuses on the geological history of the island, taking into account its volcanic origin.
Inside the museum, you can discover interesting volcanic objects, observe rocks, and obtain fascinating information about past eruptions, the formation of the island, and its geothermal activity.

Montagna grande

The dominant feature on Pantelleria is Monte Gibele, also known as Montagna Grande.
This volcanic mountain, reaching an altitude of about 836 meters, is the highest peak on the island.
We also explored it on foot, enjoying magnificent views and discovering the typical vegetation of the Mediterranean scrubland.

On the mountain, you may encounter fumaroles.
These are steam emissions that can also reach high temperatures.
With branches placed on stones, the steam is trapped and transformed into water to quench the thirst of the island’s wild animals.

Caper Museum of Pantelleria

This fascinating museum is aimed at food enthusiasts and tells the story of the cultivation of one of the oldest plants.
Through found materials, a video, and detailed explanations, the museum provides an insight into agricultural life and the various stages of caper cultivation and processing.

Arco dell’elefante

This famous rock formation is one of the symbols of the island and a highly appreciated tourist destination.
he Elephant’s Arch owes its name to its particular shape which, when viewed from certain angles, resembles the silhouette of an elephant.
It is the result of geological processes that have shaped the coast over time.
Volcanic rock and erosive forces have contributed to creating this characteristic natural arch.