Sister island to Capri in the Bay of Naples, Ischia is larger and quite different in character. It is well known for it's proliferation of mineral waters and all the spas that offer treatments based on them. A majority of the hotels have such spas, which offer everything from therapeutic to pampering treatments. This is surely the only spa island in the world.
     Of volcanic origin Ischia is known as the Green Island, due to it's verdant greenery and profusion of flowers, primarily vivid hibiscus, the scent of which permeates the air. Fragrant vineyards,  bluish green  olive groves and  dark green  orange and lemon groves dot the island and are the basis of the typical Ischian cuisine.
      Films such as The Talented Mr Ripley, starring Matt Damon, Jude Law and Gwyneth Paltrow, were filmed on the island, as well as others. It has long been the retreat of celebrities such as Sophia Loren, Jackie and Ari Onassis just to name a few.
    Built on many hills with charming towns and villages, each with it's own personality, it is a wonderful place to walk and explore. White-washed stucco houses perched on hilltops or cliffs, often turned into pensions, give you a great variety of accommodation choices. From the port city of Porto, to the top of the mountain you can find luxury hotels with spas to 3 star typical island hotels.
      Unique seaside water parks are a wonderful choice for an entire day's recreation. There you can swim in the sea, or a number of mineral water pools, have all kinds of spa treatments, have lunch or just a snack.
       The seaside village of  San Antonio at the tip of the island, is a charming, rambling little village with many boutiques, restaurants,  cafes,  pensiones  and hotels that crawl up the hill. No cars are allowed. They are parked at the entrance of the village and the rest of your exploration is on foot. Small boats can be hired to take you off to little island beaches scattered out in the bay.
      The island can be reached by hydrofoil or ferry from Naples (45 minutes)
and several other towns along the mainland coast. From there you can also take tours to Capri, Sorrento, Pompeii and other destinations which your hotel can arrange for you.
      Ischia is an island definitely not to be missed and certainly to be greatly enjoyed.