Top 5 Travel Attractions for Ischia

Guest Post by Laura Thayer

The beauty of the Bay of Naples, with its blue waters and lush landscape, has been beckoning travelers from around the world for ages. The island of Ischia, know as the Isola Verde (Green Island), has been appreciated for its beauty since Ancient Greek times. Just a short ferry ride from Naples, Ischia makes a wonderful island escape from the Italian mainland.

1. Castello Aragonese -When arriving into Ischia’s port, you’ll first pass the Castello Aragonese, dramatically situated on a rock outcropping. Built in the 15th century by Alfonso of Aragon, King of Naples, the castle is one of the picturesque symbols of Ischia. Walk across the 15th century bridge to visit the castle area, where you can also explore churches, convents, the Museo delle Armi (Weaponry Museum) and take in the fine views of Ischia of the nearby island of Procida.
   
2. Monte Epomeo -Hikers and nature lovers can experience the rugged and verdant beauty of Ischia by climbing to the top of the island’s highest point, the dormant volcano Monte Epomeo (788 meters/ 2,585 feet). The panoramic views of the Bay of Naples from the peak make the steep uphill climb worthwhile.
3. Church of Santa Maria del Soccorso – Near the village of Forio on Ischia’s western coast is the little, white church of Santa Maria del Socorrso, beautiful in its simplicity and striking setting overlooking the sea. Inside you’ll find models of sailing ships given as ex votos to the church for safe journeys.
   
4. Giardini Poseidon – South of Forio lie the beautiful Giardini Poseidon, or the Gardens of Poseidon, stretching out on the mountainside down to the sea. With 21 pools offering thermal baths, mud baths, saunas and a beautiful white sandy beach, this garden and spa is a wonderful choice to spend a day relaxing your mind and body on Ischia.
5. Sant’ Angelo – Escape away from Ischia’s crowds to the beautiful village of Sant’Angelo on the quieter southern coast of the island. This chic, car-free village is an ideal spot to get away from the crowds and enjoy the peace and natural beauty of Ischia.
   

Laura Thayer is an art historian and freelance writer living on the Amalfi Coast in Campania, Italy. She writes about travel for MNUI travel insurance and blogs about life on the Amalfi Coast at her own site Ciao Amalfi.

p/s: Photos © Laura Thayer, Ciao Amalfi!