Ischia

The island’s capital town, Ischia, is its most populous urban centre. It is bordered to the northeast by fine sand beaches and public and private pine forests. To the south, a forested agricultural landscape of rolling hills dominates the postcard view par excellence: the Aragonese Castle on its rocky islet.

Visitors disembark at the port of Ischia, which, along with the nearby village of Sant’Alessandro, was once known as “Villa dei Bagni” (Villa of the Baths) due to the presence of several thermal springs, managed today by modern tourist accommodation facilities. In ancient times, a lake had formed here within an old, sunken volcanic crater, which King Ferdinand II of Bourbon transformed into a port in 1854.

The charming Right Bank of the dock is lined with restaurants and American bars and is one of the island’s popular nightlife spots.

The island of Ischia is famous for its idyllic beaches and sea cliffs.

One of its most famous beaches is overlooked by our hotel, Maronti Beach. Located on the southern coast of the island, its two-kilometre coastline makes Maronti one of the longest beaches in the entire region of Campania. With its fine golden sands, crystal clear waters and panoramic view of the picturesque bay of Sant’Angelo, Maronti allows you to relax in the sun, take a refreshing swim or enjoy lunch in the waterfront restaurants.

Our hotel is also close to Sant’Angelo Beach. This pale, sandy beach, nestled among cliffs of white tuff, offers a unique view of the small fishing village and the promontory of Punta Chiarito. It is the ideal place for a relaxing, romantic getaway.

Another well-known beach on the island of Ischia is Citara Beach. Located in the municipality of Forio, it boasts a privileged position overlooking the turquoise waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, a stone’s throw from the spectacular Poseidon Baths.

Also worthy of mention is San Montano Beach, located in the bay of Lacco Ameno. It is surrounded by a lush green setting, due to its proximity to the luxuriant thermal gardens of Negombo. Here, you can relax in total tranquillity, sunbathe, or enjoy water activities such as snorkelling and kayaking.

In addition to those mentioned, Ischia boasts many more beautiful beaches, such as Forio‘s Beach of Chiaia and Beach of San Francesco, or Fungo Beach, each with its own unique charm and character.

The island of Ischia is not only famous for its beaches, but also for its natural landscapes, offering exceptional opportunities for trekking and immersive walks. With its lush woods, fragrant pine forests, luxuriant vineyards and unique volcanic soils, Ischia is a true paradise for lovers of nature and hiking trails.

The first spot we recommend is a charming walk through the pine forest of Fiaiano in the municipality of Barano, not far from our hotel. Due to the presence of volcanic fumaroles, an important “repopulation” project for the Cyperus papyrus is underway in this area: this small, rare sedge has made the pine forest a “Site of Community Interest”. The Fiaiano pine forest is criss-crossed by well-maintained pathways, allowing you to explore the natural beauty of the area and discover its secluded nooks and crannies.

A must-try trekking itinerary in Ischia is the route leading up Mount Epomeo, the highest peak on the island. This volcanic mountain offers spectacular views of the Bay of Ischia, the Gulf of Naples and the surrounding islands. Through forests of oak and chestnut trees, you will walk along ancient paths, surrounded by dry stone walls and cultivated terraces.

Another suggestive walking route is through the Nature Reserve of Mount Cretaio. Along the way, you will immerse yourself in typical Mediterranean vegetation, with oak forests and maritime pines offering cool shade and pleasant scents.

If you are interested in vineyards and wine culture, you can follow the route that will take you through the vineyards of Ischia. The island is famous for its fine wines – strolling through its vineyards, you will have the chance to appreciate the beauty of wine-growing lands. Admire the carefully-cultivated vineyard rows and the volcanic soils that give the wine its unique flavour, and maybe stop for a tasting in one of the island’s many wineries. This itinerary allows you to combine the pleasure of trekking with an exploration of Ischia’s wine-making tradition.

The island of Ischia is blessed with an abundance of thermal waters, a source of wellbeing and health.

In the vicinity of the hotel, one of the most famous springs is the Sorgente Olmitello, a beautiful natural bay three kilometres long. The therapeutic qualities of its waters have been known since antiquity and were thought of as divine in nature. Studies conducted over time, in particular those by Dr. Giulio Jasolino in 1588, have listed the numerous benefits of this water in treating the body, stomach, eyes, calculi, palpitations, fever, arthritis and many other diseases. Access to the Olmitello Spring is free all year round.

From the Olmitello Spring, continuing along Maronti Beach in the direction of Sant’Angelo, you will reach the Ancient Roman Baths of Cavascura. These hot springs gush hot from the mountain, and were frequented by the Greeks and Romans. The ancient caves and pools carved into the rock still survive today.

From Maronti Beach, it is also possible to visit the Fumarole. A few steps from Sant’Angelo, steam can be observed escaping from the depths of the earth, a fascinating phenomenon resulting from the volcanic activity of the island of Ischia. Wearing a diving mask, you can enjoy the sight a few meters from the shore, or move closer to the white rocks positioned on the boiling sand, keeping yourself at a safe distance. The Fumarole also offer the opportunity to experience a rather original evening: on a starry night and in good company, you can prepare chicken, potatoes and hard-boiled eggs, wrap them carefully in aluminium foil and bury them in the 100°C sand. After just over an hour, the food will be ready to enjoy.

Another famed thermal spring is the Fountain of the Nymphs of Nitrodes, known since the 3rd century BC. It was believed to be sacred to Apollo and the nymphs of “Nitrodes”. Here stood votive marbles of great importance for the long history of sea bathing on the island of Ischia, now preserved at the National Museum of Naples. The Fountain of the Nitrodi Nymphs is classified as natural sulphated hypothermal mineral water, its therapeutic properties recognised by the Ministry of Health. Immerse yourself below the spouts to get the full benefits of these waters, and experience a pleasant feeling of well-being on your skin after drying off in the sun.

Ischia is an island hosting many historical and cultural treasures. You will find quaint hamlets, botanical gardens, museums, churches and castles, all in a unique setting.

One of the most evocative spots on the island is Borgo Sant’Angelo. The Isthmus of Sant’Angelo, with its pedestrian oasis and nearby marina frequented by VIPs and yachters of all nationalities, is a labyrinth of staircases, winding streets and colourful houses. Local boutiques, restaurants and taverns invite you to discover the authentic flavours of the island.

In Buonopane, formerly Moropano, on 24 June, the Feast of Saint John the Baptist, patron saint of the village, is celebrated: the most famous dance of Ischian folklore is performed in the churchyard, the ‘Ndrezzata, a warm and rhythmic dance, very characteristic and full of symbolic meaning; it is also performed on the Monday after Easter.

Among the many churches on the island, the Relief Church is of particular interest. Located on Forio Point, this church overlooking the sea is a true architectural gem. Its white façade and panoramic position make it a place of great charm. Inside, you can admire frescoes and works of art that tell the story of the island’s religious history.

For history buffs, a visit to the Aragonese Castle is a must. This majestic castle, located on a rocky outcrop in Ischia Ponte, offers an extraordinary view of the island and the surrounding sea. Built in the 13th century, the castle is an impressive testimony to the past and also houses museums and exhibitions that tell the story of the island and the castle itself.

But there’s more. Ischia is also famous for its wonderful botanical gardens, such as the Giardini La Mortella and the Giardini Ravino, which are home to a wide variety of exotic and rare plants. A stroll amongst the colours and scents of these gardens is an experience that fills you with serenity and wonder.

The island of Ischia has a rich heritage of traditional products: the first Italian DOC 1966/2016 with Biancolella, Forastera, Per ‘e’ Palummo and Guarnaccia, Fossa rabbit, zampognari beans, honey, cured meats.

The most important and renowned of the sector’s guides have given awards to businesses in the catering and wine production sectors in Ischia.

The local tasting itineraries (the wine route and the local gastronomy route featuring typical products of the island of Ischia) allow you to get to know the wineries, agrotourism sites, restaurants and wine bars.

The island is a place where you can eat and drink well, enjoy the human dimension, the tranquillity of a slower pace of life, a welcoming environment and a convivial atmosphere.

Ischia’s cuisine is based on fresh, high-quality ingredients, often grown locally or fished in the surrounding waters. Vegetables, herbs and seafood are the protagonists of local recipes, which enhance the authentic flavours of the island.

One of the most famous dishes of Ischia is the “Ischia-style rabbit“, a tasty preparation based on rabbit, marinated with white wine, aromas and spices, then cooked in a stew. Another typical dish of the island is “lobster linguine“, a dish of fresh pasta seasoned with a delicious lobster sauce and fresh cherry tomatoes.

To wash down these traditional dishes, don’t forget to sample the local wines. Ischia is renowned for the production of fine wines, such as Ischia Bianco Superiore, Ischia Rosso, Biancollella , Forastera,  Per’e’Palummo,  Per’è Palummo Passito, Ischia Bianco Spumante, fresh and fruity white or full-bodied red wines that perfectly accompany the island’s cuisine.

And to round off a meal in the sweetest of ways, the traditional desserts of Ischia are an absolute must. The “Caprese cake”, a chocolate and almond cake, baked without flour, is an irresistible treat for gourmets. Other typical desserts include “babà”, soft sweets soaked in rum, and “struffoli”, small balls of fried pasta covered with honey and sugar.

For fun-lovers, the island of Ischia offers a series of attractions that will make your stay memorable. You can visit Ischia Adventure Park in the village of Barano, the perfect place for a fun day with family or friends. The park offers many attractions, including water games, slides, pools and much more. Or,
if you prefer a more organized experience, you can opt for organized tours of the island. Numerous agencies offer guided tours to explore the most evocative places in Ischia. You’ll be able to discover the natural beauty spots and historical and cultural sites, as well as savour delicious local cuisine along the way.

If you love sports, Ischia offers numerous opportunities. You can go hiking and trekking along the island’s scenic paths or enjoy water sports, such as snorkelling, diving, kayaking and much more.
If shopping and local crafts are your thing, Ischia offers many shops, boutiques and markets where you can find unique products and typical island souvenirs. You can buy artistic ceramics, local food products, handcrafted jewellery and much more, and take home a little piece of Ischia as a special souvenir of your trip.

Ischia’s nightlife is vibrant and offers multiple options for fun and enjoyable evenings. The island is famous for its bars, restaurants and nightclubs offering entertainment and live music. You can enjoy a romantic dinner overlooking the sea, sip cocktails in a trendy bar or dance until dawn in one of the island’s nightclubs.