Ischia’s Green Treasures
Beyond its beaches and thermal springs, Ischia possesses a remarkable heritage of gardens and historic villas. The island’s volcanic soil, mild climate, and abundant water have created conditions where tropical, Mediterranean, and temperate plants flourish side by side. This itinerary takes you through the most beautiful green spaces on the island, each with its own history and character — all easily connected by car or scooter.
La Mortella: A World-Class Botanical Garden
Your green itinerary should begin with La Mortella in Forio, one of the most celebrated gardens in Italy. Created by Susana Walton, the Argentine wife of British composer Sir William Walton, the garden occupies a volcanic valley and a sun-baked hillside. The lower garden is a lush tropical paradise with giant water lilies, tree ferns, and palms from around the world, all surrounding a series of pools and fountains. The upper garden, reached by a dramatic staircase, offers Mediterranean plants and panoramic views. Weekend concerts in the garden’s Greek theatre continue the Walton musical tradition. Park your car in the nearby lot and allow at least two hours for the visit.
Giardini Ravino: Cactus Kingdom
Also in Forio, Giardini Ravino is a specialist botanical garden dedicated to cacti, succulents, and arid-climate plants. Giuseppe D’Ambra has spent decades assembling one of Europe’s most important collections, displayed among volcanic rocks and Mediterranean vegetation. The garden has an artistic, almost sculptural quality — the strange shapes and textures of the plants create a landscape that feels otherworldly. The on-site bar serves organic fruit juices. Free parking at the entrance.
Villa Arbusto: Archaeology in a Garden Setting
In Lacco Ameno, Villa Arbusto combines a beautiful 18th-century villa garden with the island’s most important archaeological museum. The grounds are planted with mature pines, palms, and Mediterranean shrubs, and the views from the terraces across the bay to Il Fungo are magnificent. Inside, the museum houses the famous Cup of Nestor, one of the oldest examples of Greek writing ever found. The combination of garden beauty and ancient history makes this a doubly rewarding stop.
Giardini Termali: Where Nature Meets Wellness
Ischia’s thermal parks are essentially curated gardens with the added benefit of hot mineral pools. The Poseidon Gardens on Citara Bay feature lush tropical planting, waterfalls, and carefully landscaped pathways between over 20 pools. Even the Negombo thermal park in San Montano was designed as a botanical experience, with Japanese influences and an emphasis on the relationship between plants and water. These garden-spas represent a uniquely Ischitan fusion of nature, design, and wellness.
Villa La Colombaia: Cinema and Nature
Perched on a hillside in Forio, Villa La Colombaia was the beloved retreat of the great Italian film director Luchino Visconti. The villa’s gardens, shaded by century-old pines and overlooking the western coast, evoke the golden age of Italian cinema. The property now houses a museum and cultural centre dedicated to Visconti’s legacy. The romantic, slightly melancholic atmosphere of the gardens — overgrown paths, weathered stone benches, filtered Mediterranean light — is deeply evocative.
The Private Gardens of Ischia Ponte
The historic village of Ischia Ponte hides several private gardens behind its ancient walls, some of which can be glimpsed from the street or visited during special open-garden events. The tradition of enclosed courtyard gardens dates back to the Arab-Norman period, and many families maintain these green oases with plants that have been growing for centuries. Keep your eyes open as you stroll through the village — through half-open gates, you’ll catch glimpses of lemon trees, jasmine pergolas, and centuries-old wisteria.
Practical Tips for Your Garden Tour
This itinerary works best from April through October, when gardens are in full bloom and opening hours are extended. A car is comfortable for carrying any plants or products you purchase, while a scooter lets you navigate easily between locations. La Mortella is closed on some weekdays — check in advance. Wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat for sun protection, and carry water. Photography is allowed in most gardens but tripods may be restricted. The combined beauty of these green spaces offers a perspective on Ischia that goes far beyond the typical beach holiday.