Pantelleria, May 2026

This year we went to Pantelleria earlier than usual, in May. We usually go in September, when the island is dry and golden. May is different. The volcanic rocks are covered in flowers, the hillsides are green, and the nature feels more alive. Pantelleria is never really crowded at any time of year, but in May you mostly have it to yourself. <figure class="photo-wrapper"> <img src="https://iamfran.com/photos/2026-05-21-2000.webp" loading="lazy"> <figcaption>The coast covered in shrubs, flowers, and cacti</figcaption> </figure> Pantelleria is famous for its Passito, a sweet wine made from grapes left to dry under the sun before pressing. In May it's still months from harvest, but the vineyards are being tended, as always. <figure class="photo-wrapper"> <img src="https://iamfran.com/photos/2026-05-21-1238.webp" loading="lazy"> <figcaption>A wine worker attending to his grapes</figcaption> </figure> The island is also known for its capers. They grow out of walls and rocky slopes. You can…