This island paradise, 365 days of sunshine, remains untouched by mass tourism.

A few hours off the coast of Sicily, an island with a black relief reveals itself without fuss or fuss. This nugget of paradise, bathed in light almost all year round, relies on sobriety rather than spectacle. Visitors will find a rare calm, served up by unspoilt nature and simple gestures.

Why this nugget of paradise remains untouched by mass tourism

Set in the archipelago of the Pelagie Islands, between Sicily and North Africa, the island keeps its distance from the hustle and bustle. Here, the sun regulates the day, while the wind shapes the sky and sea. Villages are concentrated close to the port, leaving large stretches of coastline untouched.

The secret lies in a measured capacity, with no large complexes or oversized terminals. As a result, pressure on the environment remains low and thelocal economy breathes. This gentle strategy protects a true nugget of paradise, where you can feel the beat of the original Mediterranean.

The landscape tells a volcanic story, visible in the black rocks and jagged cliffs. Intimate coves alternate with arid plateaus dotted with prickly pear trees. On the other hand, fine sand is scarce, and swimming is often earned by short walks.

“Here, time slows down; the sea, wind and rock guide every step.”

Access, seasons and budget: planning a trip to the nugget of paradise

Access is mainly by ferry or boat, sometimes with a stopover on the neighboring island. In this way, you can combine a flight to Sicily or the nearest airport, followed by a crossing. What’s more, connections vary according to the season, so it’s a good idea to check timetables in advance.

From spring to autumn, the weather remains mild, with a helpful breeze on warm days. Winter may seem delightful in the sunshine, but some services are slow. Consequently, a flexible budget helps you to enjoy this heavenly nugget with peace of mind, especially outside July and August.

• Choose soft luggage for coastal embarkations.
• Bring water shoes for the volcanic rocks.
• Book small rooms in local homes early.
• Check the frequency of ferries at different times of the year.
• Bring your mask and snorkel for clear water.

Landscapes, wildlife and walks: the wild heart of the Pelagie Islands

The terrain is ideal for hiking, with paths leading up to ancient craters. As a result, views open out onto cobalt waters, sometimes streaked with foam. In short, you’ll be walking early in the morning, then seeking shade in the afternoon.

The sea is home to seagrass beds and drop-offs teeming with discreet life. What’s more, snorkeling and light diving reveal girelles, sars and basaltic reliefs. On the other hand, protected areas are respected, as the beauty of the area lies in its peaceful habitats.

Offshore, migratory birds take advantage of the relief to rest. Springtime, for example, sometimes offers remarkable passages, visible at dawn. A light pair of binoculars is therefore an invaluable ally.

Local life, cuisine and accommodation on a human scale

Life is concentrated around the port and a few colorful alleyways. Also, accommodations are houses, rooms and family addresses, not hotel complexes. What’s more, you’ll meet the locals at the market, where the fish arrive early.

At the table, the sea is the rhythm of our menus, with simple, straightforward recipes. Grilled fish, pasta with herbs, tomatoes, capers and citrus fruits. On the other hand, the service sometimes drags, and you learn to love this relaxed tempo.

Travel responsibly to preserve this nugget of paradise

Fresh water is precious on an island battered by winds. That’s why we cut down on long showers, reuse our towels and fill up our water bottles. What’s more, we limit waste by refusing plastic and superfluous packaging.

On the trails, we keep to the existing tracks to avoid erosion. In this way, endemic plants continue to grow, even near cliffs. As a result, photography becomes a careful gesture, without disturbing the fauna or crossing the cliffs.

At sea, we swim away from sea grass beds and respect the fragile seabed. We also choose small outings, led by sailors trained in best practices. In short, every gesture counts to ensure that this heavenly nugget retains its tranquil strength.

• nugget of paradise