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Curator’s statement
Italy's third most populous island is constantly undermined and overshadowed by its more luxurious cousin, Capri, to the southeast and the Instagram-friendly Amalfi coast. On top of that, the Ischitani are not necessarily brilliant marketeers, a trait which does not lend itself to mass-tourism. Then again, it may be this very lack of mass-tourism which made me fall in love with the island and put together this guide for you!
The Fora Difference
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Killer perks
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
San Montano Resort & Spa
Upscale property overlooking the Pontine Islands with nautical-themed rooms and suites.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 food / beverage credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Villa Livia Ischia
Discover a haven of tranquility and natural beauty at Villa Livia Ischia, where charming accommodations, lush gardens, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea come together to create a serene and rejuvenating escape on the enchanting island of Ischia.
Fora Perks
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Food & beverage credit.
Unlock perks by contacting Nicola to book your trip.
Things to do
Beaches
Maronti Beach: Take in the views of Capri to one side and the village of Sant'Angelo to the other as you relax on Ischia's southern frontier. Pro tip: Finish off the day by taking the short water taxi ride to Sant'Angelo.
San Montano Beach: This is perhaps Ischia's most exclusive beach in Lacco Ameno on the northern coast. It is home to the Negombo baths where you can spend the day in full bliss and relaxation. Pro tip: Combine with a lunch at La Casa Colonica.
SPA's and Thermal Baths: Ischia is touted the world over as a wellness getaway. Make sure to visit the thermal baths at Poseidon for a day or the SPA at the Manzi hotel in Casamicciola.
Hiking: Ischia's luscious green hills are filled with scenic hikes from which you can get stunning views of surrounding islands, including Capri and even catch a glimpse of Mount Vesuvius. Pro tip: If you are an avid hiker make sure to visit outside of the hot summer months to make your stay worthwhile.
Sights
Sant'Angelo: Visit this quaint hilltop village with stunning views over the Maronti beach. Pro tip: Enjoy a gelato at the port and visit Il Pirata for some artisanal ceramics.
Castello Aragonese d'Ischia: Visit the this emblematic island castle which you may remember from the film The Talented Mr. Ripley.
Punta Imperatore Lighthouse: Earn your lunch by hiking up to this historic landmark.
Day Trips
Take a sailboat trip around the island from the port of Forio. These are filled with opportunities to swim in characteristic caves, enjoy spaghetti alle vongole and sing local folk songs with your captain.
Visit Ischia's cousin island Capri for luxury shopping and stunning cliff views or the more quaint Procida. Both are easy to reach via ferries from Ischia's ports.
Places to eat & drink
Perhaps the best part about Ischia is the food. I am originally from Italy myself, have travelled the length and width of it but nowhere has matched the variety and quality of the Ischian cuisine. If you are a traveling foodie then this is your heaven! (Secret: the Ischitani even do pizza better than the Napoletani.) Make sure to visit the following places:
La Casa Colonica 1930: Sit back and enjoy the best mozzarella di bufala of your life on a bed of tomatoes. Follow it up with perfectly al dente spaghetti in a fresh sugo di pomodoro.
Ristorante Indaco: For Michelin-starred dining make sure to book at Ristorante Indaco, where Napoletani make the journey over on boats just for dinner.
Le Stufe Osteria & Cucina: Enjoy a romantic candle-lit dinner in this down-to-earth classic osteria.
La Cantinola di Zio Jack: One of the most authentic restaurant experiences you will have in Ischia. Arrange to be driven way up the mountain to this old-school eatery which you will not want to leave. Top tip for carnivores: Try the Ischian rabbit. For others, enjoy the perfect pizza.
Saturnino: Fresh fish and local vegetables form the base of everything at Saturnino in the heart of Forio.
Travel Advisor
Nicola Volpi
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You can read a more detailed story my own journey to Ischia here on my Medium.
This is part of our ongoing series on travel to Ischia, and our longer series on travel to Italy.