Unforgettable Ustica

Ustica is a small turtle-shaped island, about 9 km across and situated 52 km north of Sicily, Italy in the Tyrrhenian Sea. From Palermo you can reach the island by hydrofoil (the journey takes just over an hour), or by ferry (takes two and a half hours).

This tiny island of volcanic origin is made of dark, solidified lava. Ustica derives its name from the Latin, ustum, which means "black rock". The main town, shaped like an amphiteatre, also takes the name of Ustica and is where 90% of the population live.

Ustica is actually the summit of a submerged volcano and therefore has no sandy beaches. Its jagged coastlines shelter a series of creeks, bays and magnificent caves and one of the most popular activities on the island is exploring the coastline by boat. The island is also a marine national park and is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful islands in Italy, rich in exotic marine life and crystal clear waters.

Scubadiving and snorkling enthusiasts travel around the globe to admire the underwater landscape. An extremely popular diving spot is located on the southern tip of Ustica known as Grotta dei Gamberi, where remains of several shipwrecks can be spotted but perhaps the best spot of all is located in Secca di Colobara, on the west coast of the island.