Get ready for one of the highlights of your week, a fascinating tour of idyllic Ischia, with breakfast at the hotel and head west to Sorrento for a hydrofoil (small boat) sailing to the island’s eastern shores.
Dock in Ischia Porto, the bustling harbour town capital of the island, and travel along the coast to the magnificent Aragonese Castle, an island fortress which cuts an imposing figure out of the ocean. Cross the castle’s medieval stone bridge, which has connected the two islands for more than 600 years, and uncover the dramatic local legends, love stories and battles which underpin its history with an expert local guide. Here, you’ll find the fascinating remains of monasteries, churches and convents nestled amongst lush gardens and centuries-old ramparts that offer panoramic views over the Gulf of Naples. There’s also a gallery and museum area which showcases traditional Ischian culture and the work of local artists.
After exploring the castle, cross the causeway to Borgo di Ischia Ponte, a fascinating sprawl of ancient churches, noble houses and fishermen’s houses. As you wander the village’s winding alleys, you’ll be perfectly placed to experience life in modern Ischia, accompanied by the sights, sounds and scents of its bustling street markets.
This afternoon, you’ll have a few hours at leisure to discover the island’s four major towns, starting with Barano d’Ischia, where you’ll find the island’s earliest traditions still lovingly preserved by locals. Next will be Serrara Fontana, which promises unobstructed views over sacred Mount Epomeo, the island’s largest volcano, and the vast Bay of Naples. Continue to Forio, the crown jewel of Ischia’s West Coast, and discover the popular Poseidon Thermal gardens and La Mortella, a colourful oasis established in the 1950s, before ending the day in Lacco Ameno. This elegant resort town is renowned for its world-class spa areas and looks out over Il Fungo, a peculiar mushroom-shaped rock stack.
Later this afternoon, return to Ischia Porto for the sailing back to the Italian mainland and return to the hotel for dinner.