Ischia, a picturesque island nestled in the Gulf of Naples, and an hour ferry ride from the city, stands as a peaceful and often overlooked vacation destination. While the nearby Capri island attracts most of the tourists, Ischia remains a more tranquil choice, offering breathtaking scenery without the bustling crowds.
My husband’s conference in Ischia offered the perfect opportunity for both of us to explore this island. While we stayed in the less frequented southwest corner, our isolation turned into a blessing. The trip evolved into a peaceful retreat, highlighted by the island’s culinary treasures, particularly the abundant seafood.
To reach Ischia, one must first navigate to the port of Naples. This lesser-known island, with its infrequent ferry schedule, greets fewer travelers, adding to its magnetism. Ischia’s impressive size and unique topography, shaped by ancient volcanic eruptions, present a landscape that rises in the center while easing into serene coastal lowlands. This natural design has charmingly nestled towns and villages along the gentler shores.
There are many different activities one can enjoy on Ischia:
Relaxation in Hot Spring Water: Since Ischia was formed by a volcanic eruption, the geothermal activity beneath the island creates hot springs. These springs, full of minerals, are very salty. For hundreds of years, residents of Ischia have used these hot springs for healing and relaxation.
Sunbathing and Swimming: Being an island, Ischia boasts extensive coastlines perfect for sunbathing. However, be cautious – some areas can reach temperatures of 100 degrees Celsius, which is dangerously hot! The clear and calm waters of the Mediterranean are ideal for swimming.
Hiking: The island’s mountainous terrain provides excellent opportunities for hiking. See how far you can go and what vistas you can discover.
Dining: Seafood is a staple in Ischia, and if you’re not a fan, it might not be the ideal destination for you. Personally, I found the best seafood in Europe here. The locals have mastered the art of preparing seafood, whether it’s fried, grilled, or cooked in savory sauces. Besides seafood, the island’s vegetables and herbs are notably flavorful, likely due to the Mediterranean climate. Vineyards are also a common sight on Ischia, with local white wines often recommended to complement the seafood.
Ischia is a natural haven for recharging, thanks to its warm climate, rejuvenating springs, and exceptional cuisine. It’s a popular destination, especially among German tourists, which is evident as many signs on the island are in both Italian and German. My week-long stay was indeed a refreshing escape.
Ischia’s Hot Springs and Seafood: A Peaceful Italian Retreat
Ischia, a picturesque island nestled in the Gulf of Naples, and an hour ferry ride from the city, stands as a peaceful and often overlooked vacation destination. While the nearby Capri island attracts most of the tourists, Ischia remains a more tranquil choice, offering breathtaking scenery without the bustling crowds.
My husband’s conference in Ischia offered the perfect opportunity for both of us to explore this island. While we stayed in the less frequented southwest corner, our isolation turned into a blessing. The trip evolved into a peaceful retreat, highlighted by the island’s culinary treasures, particularly the abundant seafood.
To reach Ischia, one must first navigate to the port of Naples. This lesser-known island, with its infrequent ferry schedule, greets fewer travelers, adding to its magnetism. Ischia’s impressive size and unique topography, shaped by ancient volcanic eruptions, present a landscape that rises in the center while easing into serene coastal lowlands. This natural design has charmingly nestled towns and villages along the gentler shores.
There are many different activities one can enjoy on Ischia:
Relaxation in Hot Spring Water: Since Ischia was formed by a volcanic eruption, the geothermal activity beneath the island creates hot springs. These springs, full of minerals, are very salty. For hundreds of years, residents of Ischia have used these hot springs for healing and relaxation.
Sunbathing and Swimming: Being an island, Ischia boasts extensive coastlines perfect for sunbathing. However, be cautious – some areas can reach temperatures of 100 degrees Celsius, which is dangerously hot! The clear and calm waters of the Mediterranean are ideal for swimming.
Hiking: The island’s mountainous terrain provides excellent opportunities for hiking. See how far you can go and what vistas you can discover.
Dining: Seafood is a staple in Ischia, and if you’re not a fan, it might not be the ideal destination for you. Personally, I found the best seafood in Europe here. The locals have mastered the art of preparing seafood, whether it’s fried, grilled, or cooked in savory sauces. Besides seafood, the island’s vegetables and herbs are notably flavorful, likely due to the Mediterranean climate. Vineyards are also a common sight on Ischia, with local white wines often recommended to complement the seafood.
Ischia is a natural haven for recharging, thanks to its warm climate, rejuvenating springs, and exceptional cuisine. It’s a popular destination, especially among German tourists, which is evident as many signs on the island are in both Italian and German. My week-long stay was indeed a refreshing escape.