On foot or aboard one of the characteristic “motoape” (scooter cars – the island’s taxis), it is possible to get to the other small hamlets of S. Vincenzo and Piscità, dispersed along the island’s north western coast.

Opposite Ficogrande port about a mile off the coast, the tiny majestic Strombolicchio island rises up, in the form of a medieval castle. At a distance of 1,600 metres from the coast opposite Punta Lena, it rises to a height of 43 metres, with a lighthouse at its peak. As it appears, it is the remains of a small conical side eruption.

The wind and the tremors then molded this castle of burnished lava. The more adventurous are advised to do the crater climb (it is advisable to go accompanied by a local guide). The trip takes 3 to 4 hours and ends at over 900 metres above sea level. The Punta Labronzo observatory terrace constitutes a strategic point from which to observe the volcanic eruptions,from a distance.

On the green-cloaked western part of the island, the typical white houses stand out; some of which are dotted along the ebony-like black sand or next to lava rocks presenting strange colour contrasts.

Other houses perch around the churches or hide among the olive trees. Others wind up the rocky mountain cliffs, and are in a very dilapidated condition.

Onetime they offered shelter to the people of Stromboli in search of refuge, fleeing from the Saracen pirates night raids.