Formiche

Formiche (also called Secca delle Formiche) is a reef dive site in the waters around Lipari, in the Aeolian Archipelago, visible to the naked eye from the island thanks to the exceptional clarity of the surrounding water. The reef is formed by two rocks, one reaching 30 m and the shallower topping out at 10 m, making it suitable for both snorkelling and diving. Beneath the surface the rocks reveal multi-coloured walls, large boulders, and a network of grottoes and tunnels — the exposed rocks are simply the tips of a much larger submerged reef structure.

The seabed around the reef is carpeted in seaweed that shelters sponges, nudibranchs, pinna comune (noble pen shell), and castagnole (damselfish). A wide range of other species inhabits the reef, including eels, lobsters, prawns, scorpionfish, groupers, octopus, and parrotfish.

The maximum depth is 30 m, the site is rated as not difficult, and it is considered suitable for beginners. The dive is described as relaxing and pleasant, well suited to divers looking for a varied, unhurried naturalistic experience.