Guide to LINOSA ISLAND 

A volcanic island comprised of three extinct craters, remote Linosa retains a quiet charm while attracting many more visitors in recent years. The coast has both cliffs and lava beaches and inland there is a certain amount of agriculture. Much less windy than Lampedusa, Linosa is renowned for being very hot.

Area: 5 sq km
Coastline: 11 km
Highest point: 195m (M Vulcano)
Population: 438
Visitor capacity: 485 (2 hotels, 1 campsite)
Access: Sea - Porto Empedocle (3-6 hours)

Reaching Linosa from Rome is a 24-hour journey -- but it's worth it. This volcanic atoll is closer to the coast of Tunisia than it is to the Italian island of Sicily.

Landing here is like touching down on another planet -- Mars.

The jet-black beach of La Pozzolana has sulfur-yellow and red layers. Its Black Planet bar is popular for sunset aperitifs and private dinners and snorkelers dipping their mask into the water are greeted by black crystal-clear scenery. The island is home to loggerhead turtles and there's a hospital dedicated to helping heal those hurt on fishermen's hooks.

At night, under starry skies, the turtles come ashore to lay their eggs.

A hike into the island's center reveals Monte Vulcano, an extinct volcano covered in fluorescent green prickly pears.

The island's main village is a bunch of low-rise pink and green dwellings.

Getting there: Flights connect Rome and Milan to Lampedusa island, which is linked to Linosa by ferry.

Staying there: Casa Faro (+39 3336846636) is a typical island dwelling for rentals.

Eating there: Errera serves traditional cuisine.