Explore the Egadi Islands on Sicily

When it comes to holidays in Italy, rental villas in Sicily are among the most popular options for the majority of tourists. The perfect mix of intimate atmosphere and luxurious furnishings attracts a large number of clients each year, with many being drawn by the wonderfully scenic locations and the opportunity to discover the ‘authentic’ Italy.

In the more popular locations to rent villas in Sicily, activities may become a little too familiar for regular visitors to the island, leading some to seek out new alternatives for day trips. In this regard, one of the most beautiful "undiscovered" spots on the island is the Egadi archipelago. Consisting of three smaller islands off the coast of the larger island, this location will appeal to those looking for an untouched place to explore while on their summer holidays in Italy. Below are a few of the main attraction points the Egadi Islands boast, which make them a perfect place to visit while staying in one of the villas in Sicily.

History Meets Tourist Appeal

Like most other locations in Italy, the Egadi Islands – Favignani, Levanzo and Marettimo – offer the perfect mixture of stunning scenery, touristic appeal and the kind of historic atmosphere that brings so many visitors to the region each year. All quite different in appeal and features, any of the three islands will delight those looking for something a little different during their time in Italy.

Favignani

Of the three islands, the most popular one is undoubtedly Favignani, also known as La Farfalle (the butterfly) due to its distinctive shape. This is the most densely populated of the Egadis, and is best known for its stunning beaches, which are conducive to water sports, diving and snorkelling. However, the island’s charms do not stop at its seafront, with the main town of Favignana offering a small dose of history through the presence of an Arab fort and two Renaissance palazzos.

Levanzo

In stark contrast to the relative ‘urbanity’ of the larger island, Levanzo is a natural paradise, best known for its excellent hiking over hills and by cliff-side ravines looking down over sandy beaches. The minimal nature of the island can be surmised by the fact that there is only one village, and that only contains two of each for shops, hotels and restaurants! Guests who wish to spend their Italian break in the midst of nature can ask for nothing else, and will enjoy a visit to this island.

Marettimo

Finally, Marettimo is the most unspoilt island, and will thrill and delight fans of wildlife. Also gifted with excellent walks and hikes, this island is even less populated than Levanzo, offering little more than two fish and seafood restaurants. Still, the friendly fishermen will be glad to take you on a tour around the island, the better to see some of its stunning caves and coves.

Whichever your preference is, however, one thing is clear: the Egadi Islands are an excellent destination to head to for tourists renting villas in Sicily and looking for an offbeat day out.

Jonathan Magoni is Senior Manager of Cottages to Castles, a family owned company specialising in high quality holiday villas, apartments and cottages in Italy. For spectacular villas in Sicily or accommodation in the Italian lakes, ski resorts or city centres, we offer only the very best. Discover Italy at your own pace and without time restrictions in our hand picked villas and cottages.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.