Ischia Island Trips & Tours

If Capri gets the flashbulbs, then Ischia gets the insiders. A 17-square-mile volcanic dot in the Gulf of Naples, it’s lesser-known, a little bit retro and begs exploring, especially to the famous mineral-rich thermal hot springs. At Sorgeto, steam rises from the rock and springs bubble through the sea, but for a true spa experience try Negombo or Giardini Poseidon, wellness parks that are fed by natural springs. All this fertile, volcanic soil also means gardens of surreal blooms and lush displays and plenty of vineyards producing the local Biancolella, best sampled over a long, undisturbed lunch. Inland, the mighty Monte Epomeo is the main attraction (and well worth a hike), while the coast is watched over by Aragonese Castle and dotted with towns and villages of whitewashed houses, quirky shopping (without a Gucci in sight) and nonnas hanging out their laundry.