After the paroxysmal eruption on July 3, 2019, the hike to Stromboli Island top has been forbidden for safety reasons. I was lucky enough to make the climb several times before the ban was imposed and my last ascent took place in April 2018, with a group of friends, all tourist guides from the Eolie Messina Taormina Tourist Guides Association. Here is a report on the exploration of the most famous of the Aeolian Islands.
Ready for the ascent of Stromboli island
To get the most out of this experience we ask to Magmatrek, an association of volcanological guides who have been operating on the island of Stromboli and Ginostra for many years.
Meeting at 3.15 pm by Magmatrek office, close to the San Vincenzo church where Mario Zaia, better known as Zazzà, is waiting for us. He is one of the most experienced volcanological guides on the island. He has been taking people to hike to the top of Stromboli since 1985. The volcano is his home, he knows its hidden dangers but he kowns how to highlight its beauties.
Before leaving, Zazzà has to check that we are all well-equiped
- Trekking shoes
- Windbreaker
- At least 1 liter of water per person
- Helmet
- Torch
- Some food
- Glasses to protect against volcanic ash
After a brief introduction explaining what we are going to do, we are ready to get closer to the top of Stromboli. We head towards the San Vincenzo church, and within a few minutes, we begin our ascent. Behind us, we are already treated to a breathtaking panorama: the small towns of San Vincenzo, Scari, Pisciità, and Ficogrande, along with the black sandy beach. In the distance, we can see the volcanic neck of Strombolicchio and its white lighthouse.
We move forward, climbing through the broom and rockrose bushes and the entire Mediterranean scrub. After a while, the trail becomes a mix of volcanic sand and volcanic rock. From time to time, our guide Zazzà stops to let us catch our breath and to share stories of the different adventures he’s experienced on the volcano.
Finally the top
After more than three hours walking, we finally reach the summit: we stand above the five eruptive vents and are greeted by a loud roar. Zazzà comforts us, saying it’s just degassing, and that’s what makes the most noise. We sit on the edge of the crater, facing the vents: after a few minutes, a fountain of lava rises before us like a firework. It’s an indescribable emotion that makes all the effort of the climb worthwhile.
Who knows if it will be possible to experience those emotions again. In the meantime, I cherish these lasting memories.
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