Ginostra: Aeolian Houses and Paths on Stromboli

Ginostra and the Island of Stromboli

Ginostra is one of the two inhabited settlements on the island of Stromboli. The island is volcanic, a nature reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage site. These designations refer to Stromboli, while Ginostra itself is one of the island’s two inhabited settlements. When looking for a hotel in Ginostra, the Aeolian houses, terraced farmland and paths to named volcanic and coastal features provide the main points of reference. This makes it possible to describe the village in terms of its own features while distinguishing them from the broader references to the island.

Aeolian Houses and Terraced Landscape

Ginostra’s houses are built entirely in the strict Aeolian style. They are surrounded by terraced farmland bordered by dry-stone walls, where olive trees and prickly pear cacti grow. Built forms and cultivated landscape sit directly alongside each other: the architectural style describes the houses, while the terraces, walls and plants characterize the farmland. If you are interested in the village’s appearance, these elements can be distinguished while remaining closely connected. Aeolian architecture refers to the houses; the terraced landscape describes their surroundings and the plants mentioned there.

Paths to the Portella and Punta dei Corvi

The path from Ginostra to the Portella reaches an elevation of 800 meters, runs along the western edge of the Sciara del Fuoco and continues to the Pizzo. From the Portella Ginostra, you can observe the eruptive activity of the Southwest Crater. The elevation, route and continuation to the Pizzo provide specific points of reference for the trail; the view of the Southwest Crater is another feature of the Portella. A path from Punta dei Corvi crosses dry-stone walls built for growing capers. The two route descriptions emphasize different things: for the Portella, the focus is on elevation, the volcanic view and the route, while the path from Punta dei Corvi is characterized by the walls and their agricultural use.

Volcano Excursion and Piscinette

On a volcano excursion from Ginostra, you can see the red lava flow of the Sciara del Fuoco; it is especially impressive at night. Volcanic activity and access to trails can change, so check current conditions before setting out on such an excursion. Ginostra’s Piscinette are natural pools formed when seawater flows between the rocks. These offer different natural features: the Sciara del Fuoco is known for its red lava flow, while the Piscinette are defined by rocks and seawater flowing between them. Thus, the volcanic excursion and the coastal formation are distinct experiences.

San Vincenzo Ferreri: History and Parish

The oratory dedicated to San Vincenzo Ferreri was built in 1615 on Ginostra’s elevated Timpone, on Stromboli. Ginostra is also home to the parish of San Vincenzo Ferreri. The name links the historic dedication with the parish, while the details refer to different things: the oratory’s construction in 1615 and the parish in the village. The religious history and connection to the village thus complement Ginostra’s landscape and walking routes.

Discover more destinations: San Saba, Savoca, Vulcano Porto, Cesarò, Nizza Di Sicilia, Calvaruso, Ficarra, Rodi Milici

See the main travel guide: Messina.