6 Best Hotels in The Aeolian Islands, Sicily

Awash in white with vibrant pops of color, this family-run boutique property that hugs the Malfa hillside defines barefoot chic. A stay here—with its panoramic sea views, infinity pool, stylishly curated furnishings and artwork, and hospitality as warm as the Mediterranean sun—feels like a visit to a friend's impeccably appointed seaside villa. 

Sophistication, serenity, and seclusion combined with luxury and warm Italian hospitality are at the heart of this Relais & Chateaux hotel. The Tasca d’Almerita family were drawn to the land here as they traveled around the Isole Eolie, and they developed the sprawling estate designed around the historic lighthouse and the remarkable amphitheater vineyard into this deluxe hotel. It's the ideal escape for utter tranquility, not to mention the perfect wedding destination.

There's nothing much more dramatic than lying poolside here, with views of the sea in one direction and a prime view of the volcano in the other. This hotel got a facelift in 2018 and has comfortable but simple rooms. It's known as a very reliable option on an island where dependable lodging isn't always easy to find.

Although some visitors say it's resting on past laurels and is in need of renovations, Raya is perfectly in keeping with the elite style of Panarea—discreet and expensive, with a pool and terrace that enjoy views over the sea toward Stromboli. Public areas, including an open-air rooftop restaurant, are right on the port. Guest rooms occupy separate areas higher up the hill, with serene sea views from their balconies and a Moorish-inspired design to create a calm retreat.

Sun-filled and immaculately landscaped terraces and gardens, perfumed by citrus trees and honeysuckle, anchor this luxury property in Malfa. Here, the rooms are light and airy, and many have private balconies and sea views. The comprehensive spa's treatments incorporate the botanicals of the island (prickly pears, capers, Malvasia wine, bitter orange). The hotel's excellent restaurant (open for lunch and dinner), helmed by chef Martina Caruso, tells the story of the island's flavors with loving refinement.

In a converted 150-year-old farmhouse that once housed local priests, this really special boutique hotel in Pollara is a family affair, run by husband and wife Mauro and Amelia (and their children Mariachiara and Francesco). Since they originally renovated and opened the property in 1994 to the present-day, the family is still wholly in charge, respecting nature and their surrounding land and promoting environmental sustainability at every turn. Even the structure is Ecolabel-certified by the EU. With little touches from the past, the rustic-chic rooms are decorated in Aeolian style, each with its own personal patio and hammock, making this place all the more special.