Pantelleria - The Secret Island of Italy

Pantelleria - The Secret Island of Italy

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Pantelleria - The Secret Island of Italy

8 Days Starting and ending in Italy

Visiting: Italy

Tour operator:

Just You

Tour code:

SEPAN

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

0 - 25

Physical rating:

Leisurely Touring

Age range:

18-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans, Please make us aware of any specific dietary requests

Tour operated in:

English

Tour Overview

Pantelleria – the 'black pearl' of the Mediterranean – is Italy's hidden gem. This unique island is an open-air spa, with breathtaking volcanic scenery at every turn.

Highlights

  • Dedicated Just You holiday director with you on the trip

  • Your own room guaranteed & no single supplement

Itinerary

  • Day 1 UK to Pantelleria
  • Today we'll fly to Pantelleria, and on arrival we'll transfer you to your hotel, which is located in a tranquil spot overlooking the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean.
  • Day 2 Gadir & Mursia
  • After breakfast we'll head off for a tour of Gadir, whose name – derived from Arabic – means 'water basin'. A traditional fishing village with a long history, here you can bathe in the thermal waters of the Bay of Gadir in tanks that have been dug into the rock. Temperatures rise to 40-55? and numerous therapeutic minerals enrich the waters to ease aching muscles and soothe mind and body alike. 
    On a stroll you might see fisherman weaving their 'nasse' – traditional fish traps made from rushes – before we pass by the Arch of the Elephant, a stunning rock formation that gives the impression an elephant is dipping its trunk into the sea. We'll then tour the Bronze Age archaeological site at the village of Mursia, where the necropolis features fascinating circular tombs dating back more than 4,000 years.
  • Day 3 Mirror of Venus Lake & Pantelleria
  • Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before we leave for today's first truly special destination – one of the many jewels of this island that make it so unique.  The heart-shaped 'Mirror of Venus' Lake stands out from the middle of the island like a blue-green gem, with a stunning aquamarine hue that changes throughout the day. For an unforgettable natural spa experience, cover yourself in the mineral-rich mud here before bathing in the wonderfully warm volcanic waters of the lake.
    This afternoon, the museum of Punta Spadillo offers a fascinating insight into volcanology, telling the story of Pantelleria's turbulent geological past and present. Later, we'll visit Pantelleria's imposing, sandcastle-shaped castle, the Castello di Barbacane. Built entirely of lava stone, it's thought to date back to the 13th century, with impressive 15th century bastions and a distinctive central circular clock tower. It houses some of the archaeological finds found during excavation campaigns on the island, as well as various permanent exhibitions.
    An astonishing Roman acropolis at the archaeological site of San Marco and Santa Teresa is also in our sights today – a unique reminder of Pantelleria's ancient past as the island of Cossyra. Its strategic position, between Africa and Italy in the central Mediterranean, means the island has always been a sought-after destination. Here, in 2003, the heads of Roman statues dating back to the first century AD were found.
  • Day 4 Pantelleria island cruise
  • The best way to appreciate Pantelleria's wild, rugged coastline is by sea, and that's just what we'll do today on a cruise that also includes lunch. We'll head to the port of Pantelleria to board our boat, and you can expect to see dazzling white pebble beaches, hidden inlets only reachable by boat and numerous caves, including the Grotto of Love and the caves of Macasinazzi, where impossibly blue waters meet smoothed-out, lava-grey rock. We'll stop and swim in the warm waters at Nika and at Scarpetta di Cenerentola – a creek called 'Cinderella's shoe '. After a swim, you can soak up the sun on the boat's sun deck, or retreat to a shady spot on board as you admire the hidden, unspoilt beauty of this island gem.
  • Day 5 Pantelleria Island National Park & Benikula cave
  • Join your travelling companions for an exciting adventure in the heart of Pantelleria Island National Park today. Spend the morning learning about the challenges of farming this rugged landscape at a traditional farm – you'll have noticed the ingenious terracing farmers have created for crops as we tour the island. Pick the locally-grown capers or grapes before enjoying a farmer's lunch and cookery demonstration. 
    This afternoon, the wildness of the island will be brought vividly to life as we travel to an area of outstanding beauty, where no human intervention has ever occurred. We'll take an ancient mule track to Benikulà cave, where we'll enjoy the unique phenomenon of a natural sauna. Sit on the lava-stone seats and enjoy the healing underground vapours – the deeper into the cave you venture, the hotter the vapours become. You're sure to emerge feeling rejuvenated! We'll also learn about the medicinal Mediterranean herbs that grow in the area.
  • Day 6 Favare
  • Spend today at leisure enjoying the hotel's seawater swimming pools, or why not take an optional trip to experience the famous Favare of Pantelleria. These steam emissions come out of the rocks, reaching temperatures of up to 100?. We'll take a short hike along a rocky path to reach them, through lush vegetation abundant with wildlife and flowers. When we arrive, you'll be treated to some fantastic views. Admire the deep red-brick colour of the rocks at this amazing location, affected by the sulphurous gases released here, and learn about the ingenious systems farmers have put in place to utilise the steam, providing water for their animals.
    Later, we'll head to a restaurant where we'll taste some local delicacies. Pantelleria is known for its delicious caper pesto, pasta with tomatoes and pistachios, luscious ricotta cheese and sweet passito wine, made from Zibibbo grapes dried in the sun.
  • Day 7 Pantelleria
  • Pantelleria's rocky coastline makes it ideal for snorkelling, with a seabed undisturbed by sand. Today, perhaps you'll join our optional snorkelling excursion to discover more of the island's gems. The seabed here features rich fauna and marvellous submarine landscapes – with the geological movements and lava flows in the area creating a dramatic backdrop under the surface of the sea. Alternatively, spend a lazy day at the hotel or explore at your own pace.
  • Day 8 Pantelleria to UK
  • Today we'll transfer you to the airport for your flight back to the UK.

What's Included

  • Just You Tour Manager as your host 
  • Return flights from Heathrow with Alitalia
  • 7 nights half board in a 3-star hotel
  • 17 meals: 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 7 dinners
  • Welcome drink & farewell get-together
  • Overseas transfers & other transportation
  • Porterage
  • Dedicated Just You representative to greet you at all UK airports

Accommodation

    • Hotel Mursia

Excursions Included

  • Bathe in the thermal waters of Gadir
  • Explore Mursia's Bronze Age archaeological site
  • Take a mud bath in the Mirror of Venus Lake
  • Visit Pantelleria's castle, the Castello di Barbacane
  • Explore the Roman acropolis
  • Boat trip around Pantelleria with lunch on board
  • Learn about ancient island farming techniques at a traditional farm, with cookery demonstration
  • Enjoy a natural sauna in Benikulà cave

Optional Excursions

  • Hike to the famous Favare natural steam jets
  • Snorkelling

Check out our Q&As

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    All the people in your group will be solo travellers and will share your sense of adventure and passion for travel. There’s usually a good mix of ages too, so you’ll meet a variety of solo travellers who have more, or in some cases less, life experience. We find the overall mix of people really adds to the whole experience and there are certainly plenty of l

  • Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

    A few years ago we set up Just You Cares, a programme that gives back to some of the places we love. We have always believed in taking care of the communities we visit, and have taken the time to really get to know the local people and understand the challenges they face. Some of our holidays give our Customers the chance to see how the money from their trips has been spent.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    At Just You, we are committed to operating our business operations responsibly, with integrity and always act ethically in all our business dealings and relationships. We are committed to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure slavery and human trafficking does not take place in our own business or in any of our supply chains

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If we can accommodate a change in date - we will always do our best to help you. Just pick up the phone and ask one of our friendly advisors - just make sure you have your booking number to hand.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes, and all of our accommodation providers will be working to the very highest standards of hygiene – you already always enjoy a private room of your own on all of our trips, all of our partners will be guided by local government operational standards of hygiene and the new protocols we have issued to them.

  • Will I eat alone?

    We find there’s always a social element to dining, so you’ll never eat alone, unless you want to! Every holiday includes a welcome get-together, all breakfasts and many other meals. When a meal is not included we find travellers meet and dine together.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    No, given the nature of our holidays, it is not possible to join the tour once it has departed.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Just You has been operating solo holidays for more than 15 years.

  • Am I guaranteed a room of my own?

    Of course, you’ll always have a twin or double room all to yourself. It’s great to have that space to relax and reflect at the end of the day. In some hotels you can also pay a little extra to upgrade for more space or a lovely sea view.

  • What is the typical age range on a Just You holiday?

    Typically, our customers are solo travellers in their 40s, 50s and 60s, but it’s quite possible you could meet 20-year-olds or 70-year-olds (or anyone in between)... After all, age is just a number!

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    We have received the World Travel and Tourism Councils (WTTC) Safe Travels stamp, which recognises businesses and destinations worldwide that have adopted a new set of global protocols to support the return of 'Safe Travel' around the world. The 'Safe Travels' stamp provides you, with assurance and peace of mind that we have implemented enhanced health and hygiene prprotocols on all holidays.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Once you book, you will receive a confirmation invoice within 7 days, prior to departure, we will send you further information to help prepare for your trip.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Just You is exclusively for solo travellers, every tour includes a twin or double room of your own, with no single supplement.

Reviews of this operator

Jenny Elliott  

Fabulous Holiday with Just You

28-Oct-2021

Fabulous holiday with Just You - well organised, excellent accommodation and our tour leader absolutely made the trip! Would highly recommend.

Featured on Trustpilot
Russell Kerfoot  

Travels 2013 -2019

21/06/2021

Have taken about 15 tours with JY, mainly long haul, and found the experience exhilarating. Apart from the company's professionalism and extensive and varied tour options, I have made so many friends for life. Looking forward to resuming my travels in 2022.

Featured on Trustpilot
jean thornton (Google Reviewer)  

My short trip to Versailles...

08-Sep-2024

My short trip to Versailles & Monet’s garden with ‘just you’ was excellent. Tessa our guide gave 101%. Beautiful hotel and surroundings. A very friendly bunch of people and a mix of all ages. Will definitely be going with them again.

Tyler Kerr (Google Reviewer)  

Apologies in advance to the...

09-Jun-2024

Apologies in advance to the business as my holiday was the Eastern Wonders tour in Canada in June 2023 but some things happened shortly after which I had to focus on and then I kept forgetting to write a review. This was hands down the best holiday I’ve ever had. My coeliac disease was no issue whatsoever and the tour guide ‘Johanna’ is an absolute credit to Just You. She along with all of the other tour guides in the city stops were knowledgeable and great fun. The only day I felt wasn’t necessary for that time of year was Mont-Tremblant and the Holiday Inn there wasn’t the best but every other hotel was wonderful. Everyday was well-balanced with little tours to see the gorgeous sights in each location whilst still leaving us with plenty of time for our own exploration. The coach driver ‘Dave’ was also a really lovely chap. We always felt very safe with him behind the wheel and, should Just You offer this tour again someday, I would definitely recommend it. I will be using this company again and I can’t wait. I’d also like to thank the team at Just You over the phone and the representative at Heathrow who helped me as I’m on the autism spectrum and can get overwhelmed. Lovely company and very well priced in my opinion. With everything we did it would have cost around double if you’d made this trip independently.

Alistair Chattaway (Google Reviewer)  

A shame that there are...

14-Aug-2024

A shame that there are a lot of negative reviews regarding Just You as I recently went on their tour of Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast... it was a fantastic trip and I was part of a lovely group of people. The tour guide (Michela) was fantastic and the staff members in the hotel in Pompeii were really friendly and accommodating. As I have certain dietary requirements, the staff in the hotel went to every length to accommodate these needs... and whereas no hotel is ever perfect, I had a quiet and comfortable room and it was more than adequate for my needs. The additional tours were fantastic and the tours of the Pompeii ruins, Herculaneum, Capri, Ravello and Amalfi Coast were well planned. The tour guides were really knowledgeable about the area and it really took my breath away. I didn't like Naples very much but the museum and its exhibitions were really worth the short visit there. Four of the guest flew in on earlier flights from different parts of the UK and rather than keep us waiting at the airport, a separate transfer was organised to get us to the hotel in good time for some rest. The other guests on the tour were really friendly and no one felt left out at any point... and the group size (17 people) was perfect. A lot of the guests had already been on previous holidays with Just You and had really good things to say... so, having been skeptical due to the negative reviews I read before I went on the holiday, I wanted to write a positive review as I had a lovely time on this holiday... to the point that I will definitely book another holiday with Just You in the future.

aled blackshaw (Google Reviewer)  

Been on 5 holidays with...

13-Oct-2023

Been on 5 holidays with this company they have generally been good but the prices have risen considerably and i feel do not provide true value for money. In my opinion all the excursions and meals should be included in the total cost as they not worth the extra cost. Also they are very dismissive of any complaints once you have paid for the holiday they are not interested. I think i will try another company next time

Sue Sweeney (Google Reviewer)  

Great holidays for singles. I've been...

28-Jun-2023

Great holidays for singles. I've been on 4 holidays with them. Only issue is the hotel rooms. They generally use 3* hotels and I've booked at the same time and price as my friends but the difference in rooms is unbelievable. I've been lucky, but I've heard horror stories from friends of rooms like a dungeon with one small high window whilst I've had a fabulous sea view.

COLIN BROAD (Google Reviewer)  

I went on a spirit...

08-Apr-2024

I went on a spirit of an India trip with Amritsar add on. It looks good in the brochure, but things aren’t always as they seem. If like me you like a toilet break every two hours (discussed with the company in depth in advance) or have a hidden disability. then this holiday is not for you - use a different holiday company! Their planned toilet stops are every 3.5 hours, so ladies bring your pads and gents be prepared for “natural stops” while all the passengers watch you out the window or bring a bottle and a blanket as a screen. The Taj Mahal in Agra was good, along with the two trips to the Ganges river and the Golden Temple at Amritsar too. Rarely are you in the same spot for more than one night and a 6 hour daily coach or train journey became the norm. It was a shame that there was not an opportunity to enjoy the hotels that we’d obviously paid a lot of money for. If you’re looking for tigers in the game park, don’t get your hopes up. 99% unlikely. It is also a disappointment that there is little opportunity to explore the areas in the major cities that we’d traveled too If you are lucky enough to find some companionship from the opposite sex and wish to be bring them “home” this is frowned upon by the company - even if you have paid extra due double occupancy as required by the hotel I received a letter on holiday basically saying that the two hourly toilet stops required (and discussed in advance) due to diabetes was a disruption to the schedule. That photos sent to me by a girlfriend were “illicit”. Photo uploaded - make your own mind up” Also that managing to get lucky a couple of times and bringing them back to the hotel was an issue - very strange due a so called singles holiday

Maureen May (Google Reviewer)  

Just returned from St Lucia....

29-Feb-2024

Just returned from St Lucia. Hotel dreadfully shabby. Breakfasts very limited with very little fresh fruit. Our hotel was a 20 minute walk in 29C or a free bus on the hour to the beach and sister hotel. Location good for nearby local shopping and restaurants. The sunset cruise was brilliant as was the whale watching, but surf and safari trip was a disaster. We travelled in two open topped trucks with a two and a half hour drive to the surfing destination. During the trip smoke started from the gear box and we had to abandon the vehicle until the situation was rectified, which, to their credit, was sorted very quickly. Unfortunately the sea was too rough for the boat so we had to return back in the trucks. Extremely uncomfortable on side bench seats, hanging on in the rain. So, all in all we don’t over 6 hours on the trucks - not good. The tour guide left before the 5 day extension period without a handover to the local tour operators. No Information was given except by the hotel. I had already booked to go the Athens with Just You in May, now I wish I hadn’t.

Sunlight59 (Google Reviewer)  

Booked the French & Italian...

12-May-2024

Booked the French & Italian Riviera. Too much travelling on the coach. Most journeys to places were around 2 hours or more. No toilet facilities unless you go into a cafe to buy something. The group were lovely but mostly retired and older. Didn’t have much in common. The hotel was comfortable and clean. Vegetarians had mainly different types of cooked eggs for dinner. But plenty of food. However the hotel Toscana in Alessio does cater for families with children so noisy at night for the last few days of the holiday. Paid a lot of money for this holiday. Did not meet my expectations as per brochure.

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Just You requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 84 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of just you charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 42 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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