Ischia is the largest island in the Gulf of Naples, part of the Campania region in Southern Italy. It is a notable spa resort thanks to its hot springs and thermal waters that come from it being a volcanic island. Ischia has a population of around 50,000 people, making it the most the densely populated island in the area.

Ischia as a spa resort is a major contribution to tourism and the area has several treatment centres that offer a variety of therapeutic products and services for relaxation and pampering, including mud baths, thermal baths, hydromassage, massotherapy and several beauty treatments.

Ischia is divided into six areas: Ischia, Forio, Barano, Casamicciola Terme, Serrara Fontana, and Lacco Ameno. The biggest town here is Ischia Porto, and is a great base from which to explore the rest of the Island. The weather here is generally mild all year round.

Points of interest here include:

• Aragonese Castle - this 5th Century castle is located on a huge rock which protected citizens from volcanic eruptions and provided refuge in times of war.

• Villa La Colombaia – situated in the town of Forio and Lacco Ameno. There is a cultural museum here remembering director Luchino Visconti who produced plays, films and operas.

• Giardini Ravino – There gardens here are a great place to explore greenery and different species of plants and animals.

• Poseidon Gardens – Located in the small town of Panza, there is a spa here worth visiting to take advantage of its numerous thermal hot pools.

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