THE VOLCANO
The volcano is extinct but
hot springs are spread throughout the island:
- hot waters flow into the crystal sea of Nikà cove, in the port of Gadir, in the cave of Sataria and near the archaeological site of Scauri;
- fumaroles in the Fossa del Russo;
- dry bath grotto of Benikulà;
- thermal muds along the white ring of the lake Specchio di Venere.
These charming sites are ideal destinations for
nature walks, horseback riding, cycling and some of them are accessible by car. The volcanic origin of Pantelleria has determined its destiny: the abundant presence of obsidian made the island, together in Lipari, the leading supplier of the raw material used to build tools in the Neolithic period and therefore frequently visited by merchants who visited the island bringing in information from the rest of the Mediterranean. The fertile volcanic soil and the scarcity of fish-filled shallow waters have definitively assigned Pantelleria island its
agricultural vocation.
In 2014, the timeless
Pantelleria wine growing tradition was awarded by UNESCO which recorded the traditional practice of cultivating head-trained bush vines (“vite ad alberello”) transmitted through generations, in the list of the
Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Besides its wines, the production of Pantelleria boasts excellent
olives and
capers,
fruits and
vegetables. Hard to say something new about the celebrated delicacy of the
Passito di Pantelleria, made from
Zibibbo grapes dried in the sun; the word caper then, has almost become synonymous with Pantelleria! What we call
caper is the bud: in Pantelleria no one buys “capers”
tout court, but “small”, “medium” or “large” capers, the taste is the same, but different sizes make them suitable for different uses. When, you preferring to enjoy the beauty and the scent the flowers and buds are not collected, in few weeks they will turn into olive-shape berries – here called
cucunci – juicy bites to taste with aperitifs! The
extra virgin olive oil here is very fragrant yet delicate; in October, the
olive harvest is an opportunity to meet old friends, make new ones and share an unusual experience.
However, if you do not want to make any effort, in Pantelleria island there are several
farms that produce olive oil, wine, capers and who make excellent preserves with local products. It is more than a visit: you will be welcome very warmly and invited to taste so many delicious bites and drinks that you will go back home happy and a little bit tipsy.
The Panteschi are passionate hunters and pickers:
rabbits and mushrooms are abundant in the woods of Montagna Grande – the big mountain overlooking the island – Mount Gibele and Kuddia Midas, in the season.
Food, nature, wellness and pleasure for your accomodation in Pantelleria island and your
vacations in Italy. Choose the best for your Pantelleria holidays in Italy…