Have you ever heard of Ischia? If not, you’re not alone. This island off the coast of Italy is one of the best-kept secrets in the Mediterranean.
But everything is about to change. In the 2022 edition of The World’s Finest Awards, the yearly global vote for top tourist locations, readers of the American magazine Travel + Leisure rated Ischia the best island in the world.
So what makes Ischia so unique? For starters, it’s stunning. Lush vegetation covers the island, and its beaches are famous for white sand and shallow clear water. Ischia is also home to several historical sites, including the ruins of an ancient Roman villa and a 12th-century castle.
But the real appeal of Ischia lies in its relaxed atmosphere. Ischia is an island where time seems to stand still. There are no tourist traps or busy nightlife scenes. Instead, visitors can enjoy quiet walks on the beach, leisurely lunches at family-run restaurants, and evenings spent sipping wine under the stars.
Ischia sit in the Tyrrhenian sea, the largest of the Phlegrean Islands, on the northernmost part of the Amalfi coast. Ischia is famous for its volcanic thermal hot springs, spectacular scenery, and delicious food. All these factors make Ischia perfect for a spa break.
You might ask why Ischia now and not Capri or Procida. Maybe it’s because Ischia is off the beaten track, but it’s more likely that travelers have bought into the ‘Ischia is More’ campaign, driven by local businesses keen to revive the island’s fortunes after the pandemic – or maybe it’s because Ischia is the perfect secret holiday destination.
Visitors agree that Ischia’s lack of popularity is part of the appeal. Ischia is still undiscovered (for now). It’s a hidden gem, just waiting to be discovered by visitors from all over the world.
However, the ‘Ischia is More’ campaign has taken the world by storm, and how things are heading, that secret won’t be a secret for much longer. What else makes Ischia worthy of the best island award?
Visitors have long celebrated the island’s therapeutic hot springs, which are said to have healing properties. The island’s volcanoes feed the springs, and there are several spas where visitors can enjoy treatments.
Ischia is also a haven for foodies. Restaurants on the island specialize in fresh, locally-sourced seafood and produce. There’s also a thriving wine industry, with several wineries producing red and white wines that are perfect for sipping in the evening sun.
And then there’s the scenery. Ischia has it all, dramatic cliffs, quiet coves, and crystal-clear waters. It’s no wonder it’s been used as a backdrop for many films, including The Talented Mr. Ripley and The Crimson Pirate.
So if you’re looking for a relaxed and beautiful island getaway, Ischia is the perfect destination. It may be off the beaten track (for now), but it’s definitely worth seeking out.