Deep in the Tyranean Sea in Italy, just north of the coast of Sicily lies a chain of seven islands called the Aeolians. I’m fortunate to have been going there for years. In fact, on my last trip there I think it was my 12th time! The Aeolian Islands hold a special place in my heart. Through the years I have developed many friendships with the colorful, warm and exuberant people who inhabit this gorgeous part of the world. While every island has something to offer, there are two or three that are my favorites. One of them being Panarea for it’s boho artistic flavor, and the best place to catch this vibe is at The Hotel Raya. This little gem is located in a tiny hillside village on Panarea. Most rooms have beautiful terraces that face the ocean– you can see Stromboli (boasts one of the 3 active volcanoes in Italy which erupts daily) and Vulcano (the southernmost of the 7 Aeolian islands) in the distance. The Raya is the perfect gypset travel destination for sometime travelers and gypsetters alike looking to get away for some serious relaxation. You can enjoy the peace and quiet in the beautiful natural surroundings of this tiny Italian island. There are no cars on the island, so everything you need is within walking distance.
The Hotel Raya was founded in the 1960s by Paolo Tilche and Myriam Beltrami (you will still find her at the hotel). Tilche was a painter from Alexandria and Beltrami came from Como. Soon after traveling to Panarea for the first time, they were bringing their friends along for the party. The arrival of so many visitors led them to found and construct the Hotel Raya. They were gypsetters in the 1960s, and they brought the lifestyle to Panarea. To this day, Panarea is a hotspot for artist, fashion designers, musicians and writers. Among its more famous visitors are Madonna and Armani.
The rooms at the Hotel Raya are located up on the hillside, so be prepared for a little workout! If you have the chance to make the welcome tour– do so! Navigating the hotel can be a little confusing, and the welcome tour definitely helps you get the lay of the land right away. The rooms are simple and furnished with a typical Aeolian Island tropical aesthetic, and they evoke the bygone days of “la dolce vita.” The views from the terrace are unbelievable. The lack of televisions in the room also help you to “unplug” from your busy life and enjoy the laid back lifestyle on the island. The staff at the hotel provides great service and couldn’t be friendlier!
The view from my room
There is a simple, airy restaurant on site serving local organic fare. Make sure you enjoy a drink at the bar, where you can gaze out across the sea at Stromboli. The hotel pool is gorgeous! It’s a heated salt water infinity pool that provides you with majestic ocean views. You also don’t want to miss the hotel’s boutique which offers unique items imported from Bali including batik, clothing, wood and stone carved items, and paintings–perfect to take home as a souvenir of your stay in Panarea.
If you want to avoid the crowds that descend on the island in the summer months, try to visit the Hotel Raya in May, June or September. The weather will still be beautiful, but the vibe will be even more relaxed. You can visit the Hotel Raya website HERE. Room rates range from 180-300 € for the dependence, 320-540 € for the regular room, 420-660 € for the Junior Suite, and 400-750€ for the Suite.
My friend having some fun with one of the Aeolian Island locals 😉
