Travel & Leisure readers have returned their verdic, voting Ischia island as the best Island in the world. That’s right, of all the wonderful islands to choose from, Ischia came in at number one of the 25 finalists.
The charm of Ischia
Ischia, the largest of the Phlegrean Islands, is about 30 kilometers north of Naples in Campania. It is a volcanic island which attracts visitors who come from all over Italy and beyong to enjoy the health benefits of its hot springs and volcanic mud. It is a perfect spot to visit from the Amalfi Coast offering a far more authentic experience than the popular Capri.
Natural hotsprings
Ischia’s thermal waters are well known for their healing and miraculous properties. There are 103 spring thermal baths and 29 basins overall.
Each has slightly different characteristics based on their mineral composition, with each bath different from the others.
One of the island’s top wellness destinations is close by Negombo. It has 14 pools scattered among grounds covered with lush jungle-style vegetation, exotic blossoms, and contemporary sculpture, almost like a thermal spa-park.
Or for a spa experience, Il Sorgeto is close to the village of Panza in the picturesque south east island Ischia. Locals come here to share a beer and watch the sunset from the bubbling, natural rock ponds.
Beaches and coast
Spiaggia (Beach) Di Cava Grado
Ischia is famous for its rock formations and coastlines. Although Spiaggia di Cava Grado is a quaint little beach, there are some wonderful coves and water if you follow the rocky shoreline from the water. You can enjoy a nice afternoon if you find a kayak or bring a float. You’ll be close to Ristorante Deus Neptunus Ischia, which is a fantastic option for lunch or dinner.
The tiny island of Procida is only a 15-minute ferry trip from Ischia and is pleasantly devoid of tourists (except in August, when Italian holidaymakers pack the sandy beaches).
The postcard views make the perfect backdrop for photos you will treasure for life. Take note of the finer details such as roadside geranium pots and trees covered in Procida’s renowned lemons.
One of the most picturesque areas on the island, if not the entire Bay of Naples is Marina Corricella. It is renowned for its port where fisherman still gather and repair nets in the heat.
History
The iconic Aragonese Castle
Aragonese Castle was the first fortress on the island. Gerone erected the fortress in 474 BC and King Alfonso of Aragon lived there. Later it became a place where political criminals were imprisoned.
The castle is now a private residence open to visitors. Ascend to the rooftop bar for refreshments while admiring the stunnings views of the islands of Vivara and Procida.
Important theatrical performances take place there, and it’s one of the places for the Ischia Film Festival. The castle has also used as the backdrop for a number of Italian and foreign movies.
There is a museum with torture devices and weaponry from the 14th century for individuals who are interested in history.
You cannot escape the 789-meter-high Monte Epomeo volcano on Ischia, visible from all around. The settlement of Fontana is about an hour’s walk from its summit, where you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views of the Bay of Naples above the slopes covered in woodland.
If this were Capri, you would have to battle crowds of visitors to reach the top before waiting in line for lunch at a prestigious restaurant. However, since you’re in Ischia, you might have the vistas all to yourself. To top off the authenticity, stop for lunch at the family-run La Grotta on the way down.
This quaint neighbourhood café has a terrace with a beautiful view. And the adjacent vineyards serve as a reminder of Ischia’s long history with wine, its lush geography, and its delightful, moderate temperature.
Take a tour of Ischia and the Amalfi Coast
Want to explore the Island of Ischia like a local and discover other hidden gems of the Amalfi Coast? Let us design you a personalised tour so you can enjoy this part of the world without the hassle. Inquire today about our customised holiday packages.
