Aeolian Islands by Bike: Seven Trails on Lipari, Salina and Vulcano

Leave Lipari town and gain elevation as views open towards neighbouring islands. The climbs reveal a succession of sea views before the route passes through Acquacalda and returns to the starting point. This mostly asphalt loop suits riders seeking scenery who can handle sustained climbing and descents. Consider the short unpaved sections when choosing a bike.

Discover a side of Lipari connected to its land and resources. The route passes the kaolin quarries before the San Calogero baths area, a reminder of the island’s thermal history. Roads alternate with more demanding sections on the way back to town: an MTB and confident riding are needed even though asphalt predominates. The baths are a historical landmark, not an opportunity for thermal bathing.

Explore more of the island by alternating coastal areas with inland passages. Changing surfaces and elevation define the ride more than distance alone. Trail sections require you to read the ground and control your bike; the descents demand attention between viewpoints. This is a choice for experienced riders seeking a more varied day than Lipari’s first trail.

From Santa Marina, climb into a quieter landscape where village roads give way in places to unpaved surfaces. The loop follows the slopes of Monte dei Porri and offers glimpses of Salina’s other major summit, Monte Fossa delle Felci. Green hills and sea accompany a ride that requires fitness: the climbing and unpaved sections call for well-paced effort and stops.

Roads link Salina’s villages on this predominantly road-based ride. From Santa Marina the route touches the Malfa area and reaches Leni before descending to Rinella. The sea invites a stop, but save energy for the climb back and the rest of the loop. Almost continuous asphalt provides a more regular surface than the other Salina trail, though the climbs remain demanding.

Climb from the harbour area towards the island’s interior, gradually leaving the busiest places behind. The route reaches the Gelso area and Madonna delle Grazie church, alternating open sea views with roads among the hills. Asphalt predominates, but the elevation profile calls for a steady effort and energy in reserve for the return. Allow time for any coastal stops.

The more demanding of Vulcano’s two trails covers approximately 37 km, with frequent surface changes and over 1,000 m of ascent according to GPX elevations. Roads link unpaved sections and passages that call for attention, making the ride suitable for fit, experienced mountain bikers. The volcanic landscape is part of the experience, while the continuity of the ride also depends on surface conditions and permitted access.