Therasia Resort Sea & Spa ★★★★★

Approaching Vulcano you can’t help but feel a twinge of excitement and adventure. Trails of white smoke rise from the centre and the coastline is ribbed like molten lava. It’s hard to imagine that a luxurious five-star resort lies within this primeval land. The pearly white façade of the Therasia Resort stands boldly out against the stark black volcanic landscape, yet inside you’ll notice that it blends in perfectly with its surroundings. Think volcanic rock from nearby Mount Etna, Sicilian terracotta, cedar and olive wood.

The bedrooms contrast nicely with the ebony landscape, with shades of white and cream, wrought iron head boards, and glossy bathrooms made from black volcanic stone and tiled Sicilian terracotta floors, glazed in bright colours of aquamarine or sunshine yellow. The best part though? Your private balcony offering captivating views out over the other Aeolian Islands.

Outside is the place to be however; strolling the rocky garden paths of cacti and palms, sprawling out on an elegant teak wood lounger by the infinity pools, with unbeatable views, or heading down to the private rocky beach. Meanwhile, the volcano’s crater is about a 50 minute trek away, but definitely worth the climb! Up there, the sky seems to stretch into eternity and the Aeolian Islands sit glinting in the sun. Although the hotel has its own excellent spa facilities, you shouldn’t forgo the chance to bath in the volcanic hot mud pools near Porto Levante.

Back at the resort’s wellness centre you can enjoy hot water and spa therapies in a less mucky environment, with its indoor heated pool, hydro massage jets, sauna, Turkish bath and emotional showers. You can also indulge in a full range of body treatments, baths and massages using advanced aromatherapy oil techniques.

And now for one of the best things Therasia has to offer – its delicious cuisine. The food here features fresh local ingredients from the sea and nearby mainland Italy. Chef Crescenzo Scotti creates authentic Sicilian-inspired dishes using age-old recipes. Be sure to end with a classic cannoli fused with pistachios and ewe’s milk ricotta cheese. The elegant Arcipelago restaurant provides an idyllic atmosphere, while in the summer months the star-winning Il Cappero offers something even more magical. Be sure to enjoy a glass of sweet Malvasia wine on the terrace of the Il Faraglione bar, listening to live music while watching a tangerine sunset.