Our first reaction as we approached the pier at Alicudi was to stare with wide eyes and mouth agape at the raw beauty of the island. Gazing upward we could see the house of Fabrizio and we were amazed. The stairs were certainly challenging, (about 600 to get there) but every time we made the trip up, the views from the house are fantastic and totally worth it. It’s otherworldly, and a bit beyond description. Photos can just barely capture how beautiful it is. We have been many places in the world but the peace of the sea and sky here is truly without compare. The nights were silent and before dawn, the fisherman could be heard going out to catch the fish we will be preparing tonight. Everything there was a feast for our eyes and ears, all of our senses. Michaela is a wonderful caretaker of the antique filled house and of its visitors. She was always there to answer questions and made the introduction to the house and island very comfortable. A note for you to decide if Alicudi is right for you. There are A LOT of stairs winding along the edge of a mountain.