Linosa Voyage Tips and guide

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Linosa is a small volcanic island in the Pelagie Islands, between Sicily and Tunisia in the Mediterranean Sea. It is part of the Italian region of Sicily, but lies geographically closer to North Africa. With a population of around 430, Linosa is known for its dramatic volcanic terrain, quiet village life, and unspoiled natural setting.

Linosa is the northernmost of the three Pelagie Islands and covers just 5.5km². It consists of extinct volcanic craters, the highest being Monte Vulcano at 195 m. Though it lies within the Italian comune of Lampedusa e Linosa (province of Agrigento), Linosa is geologically part of the African continental plate.

The island has a long but sparse history of occupation. It was used by Romans as a supply station during the Punic Wars—remnants of Roman cisterns still exist—and was briefly colonized under Ferdinand II of the Two Sicilies in the 19th century. Tourism is relatively recent, with major infrastructure such as electricity and schools only introduced from the 1960s onwards.

Linosa has no airport. It is accessible only by sea, arriving at 35.8555212.863161 Linosa port usually by ferry or hydrofoil from:

• Lampedusa – ~45 minutes by hydrofoil
• Porto Empedocle (near Agrigento) – ferry services, usually overnight
• Pantelleria or Malta may occasionally have chartered links via Lampedusa

There are no taxis or public transport on Linosa, but the island is small and walkable. Scooter and bicycle rentals are available from local shops. The terrain is hilly in parts due to volcanic cones, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

• 35.85604412.8624061 Monumento ai Caduti (War Memorial). Modernist sculpture by Pietro Consagra commemorating the fallen of Linosa. Located in a small square near the island’s port, the monument reflects Consagra’s abstract style and adds cultural interest to the town’s seafront.  
• 35.85655712.8635612 Scultura “Opera Mater” (Opera Mater sculpture). Contemporary sculpture titled Opera Mater near Linosa's waterfront. Created as part of a public art initiative, it evokes themes of motherhood and Mediterranean identity through abstract forms. 
• 35.860312.873693 Monte Vulcano. The highest point on the island at 195 m. Offers panoramic views of the sea and volcanic landscape. Accessible by foot. 
• Roman Cisterns. More than 150 ancient cisterns built by the Romans to store water. Some are still visible around the island. 
• 35.8595212.862894 Village of Linosa. Colourful houses, a small port, and a laid-back atmosphere. Central base for visiting the island. 
• 35.8673312.881385 I Faraglioni (Sea Stacks of Linosa). Dramatic volcanic sea stacks rising from the sea just off the eastern coast of Linosa. A striking natural formation created by ancient lava flows and erosion. Best viewed at sunrise or from a boat tour around the island. 
• 35.8684212.848336 Punta Paranzella (Northwest Point of Linosa). A rocky coastal headland marking one of the island’s northwesternmost tips. Offers panoramic views of the open sea, rugged cliffs, and seabirds nesting on the volcanic slopes. A peaceful spot for walking or photography. 

• 35.8633112.855011 Cala Pozzolana di Ponente (Black sand beach of Linosa). Swim or sunbathe at Linosa’s most famous beach, known for its striking black volcanic sand and calm, clear waters. Framed by cliffs and accessible on foot from the main village, it’s ideal for snorkeling and spotting marine life. Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) are known to nest nearby in protected seasons. 
• 35.8745212.86592 Cala La Pasta. A quiet and scenic rocky cove on the northeastern coast of Linosa. Ideal for a peaceful swim, sunbathing on warm lava rock shelves, and watching the sunrise. The area is less frequented than other beaches, making it a good spot for solitude or nature photography. 

There are a handful of family-run trattorias and pizzerias in the village offering fresh seafood, pasta, and local produce. Expect simple, home-style Sicilian meals.

• Mascari Anna, 1 Via Vittorio Veneto, Linosa, ☏ +39 0922972048. 

Cafés and bars are low-key. A few beach kiosks and village spots serve coffee, local wine, and aperitifs.

There are no hotels or resorts, but a few guesthouses, B&Bs, and holiday rentals are available. Booking ahead is advised in summer months.

• Residencia La Posta, Vicola Pisa 3, Linosa, ☏ +39 3397410705, [email protected]. Bed & Breakfast in Linosa. 

• Linosa is safe and quiet.
• There is no hospital; a basic clinic exists for emergencies.
• Bring essentials like sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
• Swimmers should take care with currents and avoid rocky shorelines in rough weather.

• Lampedusa – Larger neighbour, famous for Rabbit Beach and more amenities.
• Pantelleria – Another volcanic island with hot springs and dammusi architecture.
• Malta – Though farther away, it's reachable via Lampedusa and ferry or flight connections.