Hotel Carasco, Lipari, Aeolian Islands

Location

The Carasco was one of the first hotels open for business in the Aeolian Islands and claims an enviable position on a terraced clifftop on the edge of Lipari town, surrounded by azure waters. There’s direct stepped access to the sea for fabulous swims and snorkelling, and it’s a short walk to Contrada Diana Archaeological Park, 15th-century Lipari Castle, 16th-century Saint Bartholomew Cathedral and other attractions. There’s an excellent beach at Canetto just along the eastern coast, and the town has plenty of craft shops offering hand-painted ceramics and other souvenirs. If you can drag yourself away from the hotel’s poolside delights, Lipari’s restaurants and bars have a mellow marine vibe.

Accommodation

The Carasco’s 89 rooms are comfortably furnished with cool tile floors and wooden detailing recalling elegant coastal villas. Superior and Exclusive rooms have balconies with fabulous views of the sea, while the sought-after Junior Suites have a wide terrace, spacious living area and whirlpool bath. All are equipped with air-conditioning, flatscreen TV and free WiFi.

Dining

The hotel’s Le Terrazze and Waterline restaurants both serve delicious Aeolian and Sicilian dishes made from fresh local ingredients, with plenty of outdoor seating from which to catch the sea breeze. The Sky Bar on the pool terrace also serves all-day snacks, and transforms as the sun slips slowly to the horizon into a lively nightspot with regular live music sessions.

Facilities

The large seawater pool is a central attraction. The poolside wellness area has a wide range of spa and beauty treatments and organises morning and evening yoga sessions. Island-hopping boat trips, nature walks, winery visits and guided tours can all be arranged via reception.