HERE LIES THE GIANT

Soak up Ischia’s charms on this full-day excursion from Naples. Guests will enjoy a morning boat tour along the island’s coast followed by an afternoon drive to discover its major attractions.

The largest of the volcanic islands in the Bay of Naples rises serenely from the crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Known to have been inhabited as far back as the 8th century BC when Greek settlers first set foot on its shores, Ischia became a popular retreat with pleasure-seeking Romans, drawn here by the dramatic landscapes and therapeutic properties of its thermal waters. Intrigued by the extraordinary natural phenomena they witnessed on the island, ancient civilizations conjured up a curious myth that has survived to this day. As this legend goes, Ischia was created following a battle that raged in the skies. After rebelling against Zeus, the giant Typhon was thrown from Mount Olympus into the sea, crushed under a massive rock and condemned to live beneath this burden for eternity. Since then Typhon has been lying under the island of Ischia, causing the earth to tremble whenever he moves and creating thermal springs and fumaroles with his tears and breath. According to tradition, sites across Ischia bearing unusual names such as Panza (belly), Ciglio (eyelash), Bocca (mouth) and Testaccio (head) would indicate the Typhon’s body parts, attesting to an enduring fascination with the island’s origins and the local affinity for tradition.

Sacked by the Saracens in the Middle Ages, Ischia fell into oblivion for hundreds of years only to be rediscovered in 1951 when publisher and filmmaker Angelo Rizzoli docked here with his yacht. Spellbound by the island’s unspoilt scenery, he embarked on a project that was highly ambitious, but soon achieved remarkable success. In less than ten years he managed to transform this sleepy fishing and farming island into an internationally renowned travel destination. He built hotels, spas and a hospital, invited members of the jet set and Dolce Vita starlets to spend their holidays here and advertised Ischia’s beauties in his magazines.

Relaxed, yet seductive, Ischia is sure to enchant you too with its unique combination of sandy beaches, wonderful panoramas and first-class cuisine. You will meet your private guide and chauffeur at your accommodation in Naples, drive to the harbour and catch a ferry boat to Ischia. Your skipper will be waiting at the port ready to lead you on a half-day boat excursion along the island’s eastern and southern coast. You will cruise past the 15th century Aragonese Castle sitting proudly on a rocky islet, delight in the views of picture perfect coves, marvel at the sight of the soaring cliffs and take a refreshing dip in the jewel-toned waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

After the boat tour, you may enjoy some time at leisure for lunch at one of the port’s eateries. A taxi driver will then pick you up for a comfortable ride by car across the island – stopping to take a closer look at the major landmarks along the way. Highlights include the town of Forio, famous for its medieval tower and the iconic white Church of Santa Maria del Soccorso, and the fishing village of Sant’Angelo with its candy-coloured homes and little port set against the deep green backdrop of the isolotto.

Catch the return ferry to Naples in the afternoon. Your private chauffeur will be waiting for you at the port ready to drive you back to your accommodation.