Vulcano Piano: Depression, Nature and Trails on Vulcano

Vulcano Piano between Depression and Volcanic Landscapes

Vulcano Piano is a large, horseshoe-shaped depression open towards the northwest, at an elevation of around 330 metres. Its shape defines the character of the area and makes Piano immediately tangible as a landscape on Vulcano. This part of the island is particularly interesting for you if you want to combine observing nature, distinctive landforms and trails leading to other destinations.

A Unique Plant World

At elevations between 350 and 400 metres above sea level, the endemic Aeolian broom grows in Piano. The rare Aeolian broom is locally known as “sgubbio”; it was formerly used for construction work. Extensive stands of rockroses can be found in the Passo del Piano area. There are also holm-oak forests near Piano. This combination gives the landscape experience a botanical dimension that goes beyond individual landforms.

Trails to Capo Grillo and the Crater Rims

A footpath from Vulcano Piano heading north leads to Capo Grillo. Capo Grillo, north of Vulcano Piano, features extensive reforestation, mainly with pine and eucalyptus trees. A trail also branches off from the road to Vulcano Piano and climbs up to the crater rims. You can therefore distinguish between the footpath to Capo Grillo and the ascending trail to the crater rims when you want to organise your days according to landscape direction and landform.

Southwards to Gelso

The road from Vulcano Piano leads to the southern side of the island, where it reaches the small village of Gelso. Nearby Gelso is known for its lighthouse and beach. If you are planning your island trip not around just one destination but according to direction, Gelso marks a southern area with its own character. The lighthouse and beach provide two specific points of interest in the village.

Volcano, Church and Nativity Play

The Gran Cratere La Fossa was the site of the last historic eruption on Vulcano, which lasted from 1888 to 1890. The Church of the Holy Guardian Angels near Capo Grillo was built in the 1930s. A live nativity play has been performed in the Grotte Ferlazzo for more than ten years. This gives culture-minded visitors a range of options, from a historic volcanic eruption and a church building to a recurring festive performance. If you want to combine nature, history and local traditions, Vulcano offers several specific points of interest for doing so.

On the Way to Piano

For travel within the island, Scaffidi Bus operates year-round from Porto di Levante to Piano and Capo Grillo. This connection is relevant when choosing where to stay: you can include Piano in your plans together with the natural attractions, trails and Porto di Levante. This way, your planning is guided by the connections between places and destinations.

Further destinations: Marina Di Patti, Floresta, Calvaruso, Calderà, Leni, Vulcano Porto, Rometta, Fiumedinisi

For the overarching travel overview: Messina.