An Active Holiday on Ischia
Ischia is not just about lounging on beaches and soaking in thermal pools — the island offers a surprising range of sports and outdoor activities for active travellers. From challenging cycling routes to world-class diving and coastal kayaking, there’s something for every fitness level. A rental scooter or car serves as your mobile base, carrying equipment between activity locations and exploring the island between sessions.
Cycling: Roads and Trails
Ischia’s hilly terrain makes it a challenging but rewarding cycling destination. Road cyclists will find the 34-kilometre coastal loop demanding but achievable, with several serious climbs (especially the road through Serrara and Fontana). The views from the hilltops are ample reward for the effort. Mountain bikers can explore the network of trails on Mount Epomeo and through the chestnut forests above Barano. Several rental shops in Ischia Porto offer quality road and mountain bikes. Use your rental car to transport bikes to specific starting points, or ride your scooter to scout routes before tackling them on two pedal-powered wheels.
Scuba Diving: Volcanic Underwater World
Ischia’s volcanic origins have created an underwater landscape that attracts divers from across Europe. The island has several certified dive centres offering courses for beginners and guided dives for experienced divers. Key dive sites include the underwater thermal vents near Cartaromana (where bubbles rise from the seabed and the water temperature changes dramatically), the rocky depths around Punta Caruso, and the submerged Roman columns at the archaeological site near Aenaria. Night dives reveal a completely different ecosystem, with octopus, lobster, and moray eels emerging from their daytime hiding spots.
Kayaking: The Coastal Perspective
Sea kayaking offers a unique perspective on Ischia’s coastline — from the water, you can access caves, grottoes, and beaches invisible from the road. Several operators offer guided kayaking tours ranging from beginner-friendly paddles along sheltered northern coast bays to more adventurous circumnavigations of sections of the island. The route from Ischia Ponte past the Castello Aragonese and around to Cartaromana is spectacular, paddling beneath medieval walls and through volcanic rock arches. Sunset kayaking trips combine physical activity with unforgettable scenery.
Hiking: Beyond Epomeo
While Mount Epomeo is the marquee hike, Ischia has a network of trails that cover the entire island. The coastal path from Forio to Sant’Angelo follows cliff edges with vertiginous views. The trail through the Scarrupata gorge on the eastern coast descends through dramatic volcanic landscapes. The Sentiero delle Fumarole near Sorgeto passes active volcanic vents where steam hisses from the ground. Many of these trailheads are best reached by scooter — park at the start and arrange to be picked up at the other end, or ride back to collect your scooter as a warm-down.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
SUP has become hugely popular on Ischia, and the calm bays of the northern coast are ideal for it. San Montano, with its sheltered water and scenic backdrop, is the most popular spot. Several beach operators rent boards by the hour, and early morning sessions on mirror-flat water are particularly magical. From a paddleboard, you have a unique perspective of the underwater volcanic features visible through the clear water. Use your scooter to carry a compact inflatable SUP to different beaches around the island.
Cliff Jumping and Coasteering
For the adventurous, Ischia’s rocky coastline offers natural platforms for cliff jumping at various heights. The rocks at Punta Caruso and around Cartaromana have established jumping spots used by locals. Always check water depth and conditions before jumping — volcanic rock can create unexpected shallows. Organised coasteering trips that combine swimming, scrambling, and jumping are available through adventure sports operators in Ischia Porto.
Planning Your Active Holiday
A scooter is the ultimate companion for an active Ischia holiday — it gets you to trailheads, dive centres, and kayak launch points quickly and economically, while leaving you energised for the activity itself. A car works better if you’re transporting bulky equipment like bikes or diving gear. Most sports operators are concentrated in Ischia Porto and Forio. Book popular activities like guided dives and kayak tours a day or two in advance in peak season. Stay hydrated, wear appropriate sun protection, and remember that Ischia’s thermal springs are the perfect recovery after a day of physical activity.