Places
Volcano·Moderate·Scenic·Hidden gem

Monte Pilato, Lipari

Sicily

Monte Pilato (602 m) on Lipari island is an obsidian and pumice volcanic dome that last erupted in 776 AD. Lipari obsidian was traded across the entire Mediterranean in prehistoric times — blades found in Spain and France came from this volcano. The white pumice slopes are unlike anywhere else in Europe. The view from the summit shows the entire Aeolian archipelago.

Duration
3 hours
Distance
7 km
Elevation
+400 m
Best season
April – October

Highlights

  • Obsidian traded across the Mediterranean in prehistory
  • White pumice slopes unlike anywhere in Europe
  • 776 AD last eruption — visible in the obsidian layers

With your dog

Pumice trail; dogs on leash.