After finding out our European Summer was going to be cut short due to some schedule changes, we decided to seek out a new destination to get our fix.
Often overlooked by the celebrity hot spot island of Capri, the Gulf of Naples is home to Italy’s hidden gem, the island of Ischia! Ischia is quite famous for its thermal hot springs and rock pools naturally heated by the underground volcanic activity.
Ischia has been a popular destination for years, with visitors flocking to explore the unparalleled Aragonese Castle, take a dip in the restorative thermal waters, bask on a sandy beach (which is scarce in other popular destinations like the Amalfi Coast and Capri), wander through breathtaking gardens, hike the mountainous landscape, and have an authentic Italian experience.
It's no wonder we chose Ischia as the location for our Augustine Summer photoshoot before heading back to the states. After a quick one-hour train ride south from our apartment, we arrived in Naples to board a one-hour ferry to this stunning island.
Our First Meal Experience: A Lesson Learned
Upon our arrival – and with stomachs rumbling – we impulsively stumbled upon the first food establishment we encountered. As a word of caution, this may not be the best approach, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like ports, where you may be lured into a trap/ non authentic experience. However, to our amazement, we were pleasantly surprised. See the photos below for yourself!
A Blissful Stay at the Ischia Blu Resort
We arrived at the Ischia Blu Resort feeling satisfied and content, ready to indulge in what this newly renovated 5-star resort had to offer. This idyllic waterfront property sits in its own private cove and is conveniently located within walking distance of the port and town. We were thrilled to have secured a great deal, and our experience was nothing short of perfect. We give it a 10/10 and consider it one of our favorite stays to date!
Despite the cloudy weather their private patio was perfect for grabbing some shots of our 'Isla'
Our trip to Ischia was unforgettable. We strolled through the historic streets, enjoying leisurely mornings with delicious cappuccinos, biked around the island, and observed the locals preparing for the upcoming season. Ischia quickly became our preferred destination over Capri or Amalfi, particularly for an early or late season holiday.
Exploring the Beauty of Ischia: A Trip to Remember
Ischia is a hidden gem that stands apart from the typical tourist destinations. It's a place where Italians go to unwind and embrace the "dolce far niente" – the sweetness of doing nothing.
If you're visiting Italy during the early or late season when beach days are not guaranteed, Ischia is still a great choice. The thermal parks are open from April to late October, allowing you to experience the island's natural warm healing waters, even when the weather is cooler. With a variety of towns and activities to explore, Ischia is perfect for an extended stay. And, it's worth mentioning that your money will go much further here than in other popular destinations.
Ischia bucket list
Dinner with a view of the Castle
Rent a beach chair at Club Scannella
Spend the day at Negombo or Griardini Poseidon Terme
Have lunch in Sant'Angelo