Ischia: A Jewel To Discover Off The Coast Of Naples
Less known than its neighbor Capri, the island of Ischia is one of the pearls of the Gulf of Naples. A true haven of greenery, this destination exudes serenity. Its landscapes invite you to stroll along the seaside or relax in the many hot springs on the island. After the summer crowds, take advantage of the off-season to savor the dolce vita in a more peaceful atmosphere! Here are 3 good reasons to choose this destination in Italy.
1- Its abundant hot springs
Ischia is the largest and, perhaps, the most beautiful of the islands in the Bay of Naples or Phlegraean Islands! With an area of 47 km², it stretches 10 km from east to west and 7 km from north to south.
Despite its small size, this volcanic island has one of the richest thermal heritages in the world. There are no fewer than 96 thermal centers, fed by hundreds of hot springs. Even during Roman times, this island was renowned for its alkaline and sulfurous waters with relaxing and therapeutic properties.
Another testimony to the island's volcanism can be seen in the fumaroles at many sites, especially on Maronti beach where the sand remains warm all year round, even in winter!
2- Its landscapes between sea and greenery
Ischia was shaped by the lava flows of Epomeo, an extinct volcano whose bare summit rises to 780 meters above sea level. The highest point of the island, the summit of Epomeo offers a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Naples and of this island ravaged by lava flows and dotted with terraced vineyards. To climb it, you need to allow for an hour's walk from the village of Fontana.
The fertile soil is conducive to lush vegetation, composed of pine forests, vineyards, flower gardens, and lemon trees. These thousand shades of greenery have earned this popular destination the nickname "Green Island."
In the 1950s, stars like Elizabeth Taylor and Luchino Visconti made their homes in this paradise. Today, Neapolitans and tourists find in this green haven an extraordinary holiday setting between beaches and hills.
Note: The famous Italian director Luchino Visconti is buried in Ischia. He owned a villa there, La Villa Colombaia, which was a museum for some time but is now closed to the public.
3- For its picturesque localities
Ischia is not only one of Italy's most renowned thermal destinations. It is also an island with many treasures, starting with Ischia Porto, the largest town.
In the neighboring town of Ischia Ponte, connected to the main part of the island by a pedestrian bridge, you can admire the magnificent Aragonese Castle and the Guevara Tower. This superb 15th-century castle has become the emblem of the island! A true citadel, the Castello aragonese houses churches, a prison, and a keep. The panorama of Capri and the Gulf of Naples from its terraced gardens is breathtaking.
The municipality of Forio on the west coast of the island is also worth a visit for its Mortella Gardens, rich with more than 3000 species of Mediterranean or exotic plants, scattered in a maze of hillside paths. Not far from there, Lacco Ameno is home to the Villa Arbusto and its Pithecusae archaeological museum, which presents numerous testimonies of the Greek settlement in Ischia.
On the wilder southern side of the island, you will come across small picturesque villages such as Sant'Angelo, a fishing village facing a huge rocky promontory. Do not hesitate to sit down at the port to taste the catch of the day or the coniglio all’ischitana. This local specialty is rabbit braised in tomato.
