Overview
In the Tyrrhenian Sea, about 67 kilometres north-west of Palermo, Ustica is an attractive and charming island. The only inhabited centre also bears the same name, embellished with both historical and modern murals, and equipped with a port that welcomes hydrofoils and daily ferries, and which can also accomodate your transport vessel.
The first human settlements date back to the Paleolithic period. Over time, Ustica aroused the interest of many peoples, thereby weaving a past experience that gives today's visitors an adventurous story made up of shipwrecks, pirates, corsairs, inmates and prisoners of war.
During the 1960s, the island became a tourist destination and it is now considered an authentic paradise, with black sand beaches, flat rocks, sea caves such as the Blue Grotto, natural pools, ravines and inlets, an important marine reserve and archaeological sites, as well as offering lush vegetation and hiking trails. The Passeggiata del Mezzogiorno [Midday Stroll], for example, is a route that will immerse you totally in nature with a sea view. If, on the other hand, you wish to climb to the top of a volcano, the Guardia dei Turchi is for you: it rises in the centre of the island to 244 metres above sea level, amidst vineyards, legume plants and prickly pears.
Do not leave Ustica without trying the lentil flour biscuits or "gigi", an almond dessert, with cooked wine.
90051 Ustica PA, Italia
