Unlike Italy’s well-trodden islands, Pantelleria offers something different. Sitting in the Mediterranean closer to Tunisia than Sicily, it moves at a slower rhythm, shaped by nature, history, and simplicity.
Travelers arrive for the island’s thermal springs, striking coastlines, historic stone homes, and wines born of sun and wind. Curiosity is rewarded here, with experiences that feel rooted, authentic, and refreshingly unpolished.
Why Pantelleria Feels Different
Though it is technically a satellite of Sicily, Pantelleria feels worlds away. Its volcanic terrain is marked by black lava rock, rugged cliffs, and natural hot springs. The countryside is dotted with dammusi—traditional stone homes with thick walls and white domed roofs designed to stay cool in summer and collect rainwater. These buildings date back to Arab rule and remain central to daily life on the island.
Vineyards, caper plants, olive groves, and citrus gardens thrive in volcanic soil. Local wines, capers, and olive oil showcase the island’s unique climate.
While the island welcomes high-profile visitors, it avoids the polished social scenes of Capri or Costa Smeralda. The focus here is privacy, unhurried days, and a strong connection to nature.
Where to Stay on Pantelleria
Accommodations prioritize quiet comfort and local style over extravagance.
Le Case del Principe
In the Kattibuale area, this property features private dammusi with terraces overlooking the sea. Some homes host up to seven guests, making them ideal for families or small groups. Direct water access is rare on the island, adding to its appeal.
Parco dei Sesi
This 12-room boutique property sits on the west coast within an archaeological site dating back 5,000 years. Guests have access to catered meals, a shared swimming pool, and massage treatments, all designed to reflect the surrounding environment.
Pantelleria Dream Resort
Instagram | pantelleria_dreamresort | The four-star Pantelleria Dream Resort features dammuso suites and an infinity pool with Mediterranean sunset views.
Spread across roughly 10 acres, this four-star resort features individual dammuso-style suites. An infinity pool, pool bar, and on-site restaurant create a relaxed setting, especially during sunset hours overlooking the Mediterranean.
Things to Do That Define the Island
Elephant Arch
One of Pantelleria’s most recognized natural formations, Elephant Arch rises from the sea in the shape of an elephant’s trunk reaching toward the water. Swimming, snorkeling, and boat trips around the area offer clear views of this rock formation from multiple angles.
Lago di Venere
Also known as Venus Lake, this volcanic lake contains mineral-rich mud long used for natural skin treatments. Visitors typically apply the mud, let it dry under the sun, then rinse off in nearby warm springs. The experience functions as a natural spa shaped entirely by geology.
Winery Visits and Tastings
Pantelleria’s wineries focus on zibibbo grapes, producing both dry aromatic wines and sweet passito made from sun-dried raisins. Tastings are available at well-known cantinas across Bukkuram, Mueggen, Khamma, and other rural areas. Reservations are strongly advised.
Giardino Pantesco
This circular stone garden design protects citrus trees from wind while preserving moisture in the soil. Built from volcanic stone, these gardens reflect agricultural solutions developed over centuries and remain in use today.
Local Food Worth Seeking Out
Food on Pantelleria leans toward home-style cooking, seafood, and island-grown ingredients.
1. Bacio pantesco remains a must-try dessert. This local specialty features sweet ricotta pressed between two crisp shells.
2. Il Principe e il Pirata serves fresh seafood near the hot springs of Gadir and holds recognition from the Michelin Guide.
3. Ristorante Bar La Vela offers traditional Sicilian dishes with sea views. Appetizers such as panelle, made from chickpea flour, stand out.
4. Il Gelato di Ulisse in Scauri Basso serves artisan gelato using island flavors, including dark chocolate with capers, basil, and passito wine.
Local Shopping and Relaxed Evenings
Shopping on Pantelleria centers on locally inspired design and everyday craftsmanship. Zillaco, located in the main town, offers watercolors and illustrations printed on fabric, while Cosi Tinte in Scauri showcases creative home goods, ceramics, tableware, and clothing shaped by island living.
Evenings follow the same unhurried tone, favoring social gatherings over high-energy scenes, as Tanit Lounge Bar in the port of Scauri becomes a go-to spot for sunset aperitivo and summer DJ sets, while Sesiventi provides terrace seating with open views across the island’s domed rooftops and surrounding terrain.
Towns Worth Exploring
Instagram | seasy_official | Pantelleria town is a functional service hub that embodies the island's raw environment.
Pantelleria (Main Town)
This area functions as the island’s service hub, with shops, ports, and transportation. While practical, it still reflects the island’s raw surroundings.
Scauri
Known for wide sunset views, Scauri offers clear sightlines toward Africa on bright days. The town also hosts popular dining spots and evening bars.
Khamma
One of the island’s smaller contrade, Khamma blends daily necessities with a strong sense of local identity. These villages provide a closer look at everyday island life without sacrificing comfort.
When to Plan a Visit
Pantelleria’s appeal changes with the seasons, offering different experiences throughout the year.
The best time to visit Pantelleria depends on what you’re after. May and June offer mild weather ideal for cycling and hiking, though a few eateries may still be closed. August is peak season, drawing the largest crowds, warmer waters, and higher prices. By September, the island feels more relaxed, with warm days, fewer visitors, and the magic of the grape harvest winding down.
The island is served by Pantelleria Airport, with flights from Rome, Milan, Bologna, Venice, Palermo, and more via ITA Airways, Volotea, and DAT. Public transit is limited, and taxis are rare, so renting a car is the easiest way to explore. Scooters are an option for those comfortable on uneven roads.
Pantelleria attracts travelers who enjoy nature, locally grown food, and quiet independence. Its volcanic hot springs, distinctive wines, and stone-built homes shaped by centuries of adaptation make it a remote yet welcoming escape.