Stromboli

This northernmost of the Aeolians consists entirely of the cone of an active volcano. The view from the sea—especially at night, as an endless stream of glowing red-hot lava flows into the water—is unforgettable. Stromboli is in a constant state of mild dissatisfaction, and every now and then its anger flares up, so authorities insist that you climb to the top (about 3,031 feet above sea level) only with a guide. The round trip (climb, pause, and descent), usually starting around 6 pm, takes about six hours; the lava is much more impressive after dark but there are also trekking options which leave during the day and return about an hour after sunset. Some choose to camp overnight atop the volcano (again, a guide is essential). The main town has a small selection of reasonably priced hotels and restaurants, and a choice of lively clubs and cafés. In addition to the island tour, excursions might include boat trips around the sea stack of Strombolicchio, which is all that remains of the original volcano that gave rise to Stromboli.