The Island of Ischia::
Known as the Green Island because of its abundant flora, Ischia is also renowned for its exceptionally mild climate and therapeutic springs. Formed almost exclusively of volcanic rock, Ischia is the largest island in the Bay of Naples, offering sandy beaches, crystal clear sea, wooded mountainsides and much more. Walkers can explore coastal paths or the rugged terrain of Monte Epomeo -789 m. History enthusiasts will enjoy the Aragonese Castle at Ischia Ponte, the Archaeological Museum at Lacco Ameno and other interesting historical sites. The island bus service is good, with frequent buses to all the main points of interest. Car-hire is reasonably priced and the characteristic little Microtaxis are plentiful. Although the British have frequented the Isle of Capri and the Sorrentine peninsular for many years, they seem to have only recently re-discovered Ischia and its delights. One particular local attraction is the spectacular garden 'La Mortella' (see below).
Forio::
The largest town on the island, Forio is full of interesting shops, excellent restaurants and numerous pavement cafés where you can sit and watch the world pass by over a coffee, aperitif or ice cream. There is a daily market and several good bookshops - WH Auden spent much of his time here, as did Henrik Ibsen and others. The town has a picturesque harbour full of fishing and sailing boats from where you can catch the hydrofoil to Naples or round-the-island pleasure trips. Adjacent to the harbour are the beautiful beaches of Chiaia and San Francesco with pale sand and crystal clear water. Just beyond is the exotic garden 'La Mortella' created by Lady Susana Walton, widow of the English composer Sir William Walton, with the help of the celebrated landscape architect Russell Page. This year is the centenary of Sir William who died in 1983, so his music and the garden have been much-featured recently in the media. Summer visitors to the garden from can enjoy free classical concerts.
Beyond Ischia::
Although there is plenty to keep visitors happily occupied on the island, it is also very easy to visit the islands of Capri and Procida, or to spend a day on the mainland; Naples, Pompeii, Herculaneum, Vesuvius and Sorrento are all possible. There are regular ferries and hydrofoils to most places from Ischia Porto, a limited service of both from Casamicciola, and several hydrofoils daily from Forio to Naples.
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