Even though trendsetters from mainland Italy are starting to snatch up property on unspoiled Filicudi, the tiny island (for now) remains largely undeveloped. During the high season, it's a great place to escape the crowds found on Panarea and Salina. Go for a hike through lush landscapes, studded with caper plants, wild fennel and prickly pear, and end with a long lunch at small pensione La Sirena (Localita Pecorini a mare, (39)-090-988-9997, www.pensionelasirena.it/en/).

Since the Aeolian islands have few sand beaches, the best way to explore them is by boat. Local captains know the best coves to stop for swimming in the absolutely glorious waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Indagare members can contact our Bookings Team for help with trip planning, including customized recommendations and itineraries.

The Aeolian's greenest island has several lovely hiking paths, but the most memorable is Monte Fossa delle Felci, the Aeolian's highest peak (at 31,000 feet). The challenging hike snakes through gorgeous countryside and steadily rises (the final 20 minutes are particularly strenuous). From the top, you have incredible views across the Aeolians. The trailhead is located near Malfa in Valdichiesa.

Salina has tried to market the 1994 film Il Postino, in which an endearing local postman learns to love poetry (and get the girl) from Pablo Neruda. But today's Pollara, where the movie was shot, looks pretty much the same as it did 20 years ago, and nothing is very touristy despite the fact that you can have evening cocktails at a bar called Il Postino. Sunset transforms this western village into a silver-hued spectacle. The local aperitif bars are simple (best is the family-run Al Cappero), but the nature show on display is truly mesmerizing. You can also bring a bottle of wine (and your bathing suit) and trek to Pollara's small spit of sandy beach to take in the sunset over a last glorious swim and your own aperitif.

For the truly outdoorsy, hiking the Stromboli Volcano is an experience that is second to none. The summit reaches a height of 3,030 feet—where eruptions can usually be seen at fifteen-minute intervals. The highly active volcano is one of the only in the world where hikers can get within close proximity to the actual explosions—a reward garnered after a strenuous 4-hour hike. After taking in the magnificent view and occasionally startling eruptions, hikers descend by “sliding” down the sandy terrain, a trip that takes only about an hour-and-a-half. Because of the potentially hazardous conditions, a guide is required for those wishing to hike above 1,300 feet.

When to Go: Because of the potentially hazardous conditions, a guide is required for those wishing to hike above 1,300 feet. Hikes usually depart either around 10am or in the early afternoon, the latter allowing hikers to reach the summit at sunset.

Indagare Tip: Serious hiking gear is needed for this trek to be comfortable. Hiking boots are a must, and long pants are highly recommended to keep the ash from filling your boots during the rapid descent. This trek is not recommended for leisure hikers—it is long and difficult, and one should expect to be covered in soot and dust at the end of it.