If you are taking a trip to the Amalfi Coast, I am sure you want to go to Capri. It is written about in literature, referred to in movies and basically just a site that you won’t want to miss. And, I am not trying to talk you out of your day trip to Capri, BUT, I am definitely saying that if possible, you should try to spend a couple of days on Ischia.
You need a couple of days to really explore it. We were only there for the day so we really only got to see one aspect of it, the Thermal Spas. Ischia’s big claim to fame is that it is home to many thermal baths and spas. We chose to spend our day relaxing and pampering ourselves at one of them. There were two big ones that both seemed great. We chose Negombo. It was September, so although it was still somewhat crowded, I'm sure it was less so than if we had gone in July & August. We had a great time. The other big spa on the island is Giardini Poseidon Terme. We met a really lovely couple from Naples (they live in England now but vacation in Italy annually). They told us Giardini Poseidon Spa was owned and run by Germans, and therefore much more organized (that’s really funny!), but Negombo had the most spectacular views. Having not been to Giardinii Poseidon Spa, I can't compare the two, but I can say the views at Negombo are indeed spectacular. You are right on the ocean in a small cove and you feel as though you are in a tropical resort.
I would absolutely put this on your list of places to stay for a couple of days. I am looking forward to returning and exploring all the things I didn’t get to this trip. In the meantime, if you do go, here are some things that you should check out while you are there:
Spa day in the Mediterranean
Negombo Spa on Ischia is fantastic and super relaxing. Here are some tips for you that will make your experience even better.
· When you get off the boat, take the bus to Lecco Ameno. It will cost you 1.50 Euro and will take you approximately 15-20 min. Tell the bus driver where you are getting off and he will let you know when you get there. When you get off, ask the locals to point you in the right direction. You basically walk through town and up a little hill, but it isn’t exactly clear. It will only take you 10 min to walk.
· The cost to get into the spa is 29 Euros for the day. Towels are not included and they don't rent them there, so if you don't have one you will have to buy one for 12 Euros. They do have lockers, which are included in the price.
· There are several boats per day from Naples and Sorrento but only 1 from Amalfi. So if you are leaving from Amalfi you will get on the Alilauro line leaving at 8:25 and returning at 4:20. The ticket window doesn’t open till 8am so don’t rush to get there any earlier.
· We have compiled a list for your trip of things you will want to have.
Don’t forget your…….
· Towel
· Cover up – it is good to have one for walking around or eating at the restaurant
· Flip-flops
· Sunblock
· Undies – then you can change out of your swimsuit for the trip back if you choose. We forgot them….lol
· Sweatshirt for the boat
· Camera
· Guidebook or simple map
Other places to see while you are there: (these are on our list for the next trip)
Ischia Porto
There is a castle that is worth seeing called Castello Aragonese, which you can see from the boat when you are coming into port. Our friend Ethan has been there and says it is really cool.
Forio
Forio is the location of many great things. First it is where the other thermal spa Giardini Poseidon is located. Run by Germans and apparently very well organized. (It makes me chuckle. I couldn’t help mentioning it again)www.giardiniposeidon.it.
Giardini La Mortella are the spectacular gardens created by the Argentinian wife of the famous British composer William Walton. It is now open to the public and has stunning views of the vistas on the bay of Forio. In addition to the gardens there is Greek Theatre (where they still occasionally hold performances) and a museum.
The other great thing to do in Forio is taste wine. Ischia is home to many wineries producing fantastic wines and most of them are located in Forio.
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