The Aeolian Islands are a fascinating volcanic archipelago in the Tyrrhenian Sea north of Sicily. They are named after Aeolus, the demigod of the winds.  Lipari is the biggest, most populated Aeolian Island and has historically been the most significant. Lipari offers a grand archaeological museum housed in the buildings around the Duomo. Also impressive are the white shiny pumice quarries, which, overlooking the sea, give the water an amazing turquoise hue. Vulcano, which gives its name to all volcanoes, is particularly famous for its sulfurous mud baths and its smoking main crater. A man named Stevenson lived on Vulcano until the last major eruption in 1888. He never returned although his villa is still visible and intact. The tour departs from Taormina by bus to Milazzo harbour on the North coast of Sicily then continues by private boat to Lipari. In Lipari there is plenty of time to visit the old town center, to see the interesting archaeological park or simply shop for souvenirs. Guests then transfer by boat to the island of Vulcano for a second stop. Here there is the possibility to swim in the warm sulphureous seawater, have a mud bath, or enjoy the beach and have a delicious lunch (optional). On the way back, the tour follows the coastline to see the Faraglioni Rocks, the Horse Cave and the Mermaid's Rock.