Ischia: The Gem of the Gulf of Naples

Along with Procida, Vivara and Nisida, Ischia is part of the Phlegraean Islands in the Gulf of Naples. As you approach Ischia, you are greeted with the 2,500-year-old Aragonese Castle, linked to the island with a pedestrian bridge. Today, the castle is a place of great cultural significance, hosting classical music and jazz concerts, theater performances, presentations, fashion shows and film festivals. A leisurely stroll reveals churches and monasteries, parks and gardens, restaurants and cafes, terraces and observation decks, so whenever you come to the castle you will be impressed.

You can fully admire the island and the entire Gulf of Naples from the top of Mount Epomeo. Its slopes with fertile volcanic soil are used for grape cultivation, and no excursion is complete without tasting local wines. 

Then, take a helicopter flight to see Ischia, Procida, Sorrento, Pompeii, Vesuvius, Naples and Capri from above.

Ischia is blessed with hot springs. Its southern village of Buonopane is the birthplace of the world’s first spa, Nitrodi, operating to this day. Its healing properties are approved by scientists of Sapienza University of Rome.

Ischia owes its worldwide fame to Angelo Rizzoli, a founder of Regina Isabella – a luxury hotel and thermal complex, popular with Hollywood stars. These days it offers wellness programs for detox, anti-inflammatory and regenerative effect.

A curated list of spa treatments and water activities awaits for you at Botania Relais & Spa amid the stunning park (on the photos above and below).

Ischia can boast of having vast sandy beaches both for families with kids and beginners and experienced swimmers. On a boat trip along the coast, you will see picture-perfect towns perched of cliffs, tropical gardens, terraced vineyards, cozy bays and rocky islands connected to the main one by a sandy strip. 

In the south, relax on the well-appointed 3 km long Maronti Beach with hot springs. Not far from it, you’ll find Fumarole Beach with healing sands, heated with volcanic activity. At the depths, the sand is scorching, so you can cook in it, which is what chefs of nearby restaurants actually do.

Off the north-east of Ischia, hot springs can cause bioluminescence, and you can observe it at night. 

Another highlight, a submerged ancient city of Aenaria, can be seen in the Cartaromana bay, overlooking the Aragonese Castle. The reasons why it sank are still a matter of debate. Explore this underwater archaeological park during diving or glass-bottom boat tours.

Visit La Mortella botanical garden with 3,000 species of plants, and Villa Arbusto that once belonged to Angelo Rizzoli and now hosts his museum. In the on-site garden you will see plants from Australia, America and Asia along with indigenous species.