Summer in Italy: An idyllic week spent on the island of Ischia
For two people that like to have things planned to a T ahead of time, our last-minute week stay in Ischia has really given kudos to having a little spontaneity. But then again, we may have just struck luck with this gem of an island, where bookings are hardly required for anything, the roads are wide and scenic, making it ideal for rookie scooter riders like us, and the ratio of locals to tourist still seem to be in their favour.
A week in Rome was originally our next stop after our time in Tuscany, but when we saw 38-plus-degree days were on the horizon, we decided to skip it altogether by heading to the Amalfi Coast a week earlier. So now, we find ourselves on the island of Ischia, known for its endless summer days and fiery sunsets.
Scattered on all corners of the island are these breathtaking beach clubs set on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. For example, in one corner within the charming village of Sant'Angelo, there's Sant'Angelo Beach, where vibrant coloured loungers and umbrellas dot the coast, overlooking the pastel-painted town. On the other, there's the Giardino Eden beach club, a more upscale option accessed via what seems like a million stairs. Still, this challenge is more than worthwhile, with its views of the historic Castello Aragonese d'Ischia following you in every direction.
Known for its delicious local dishes, such as seafood pasta and grilled fish, we also had the pleasure of dining by the sea at some of the best restaurants on the island, including Ristorante Deus Neptunus Ischia, La Meridiana, and Da Ciro al Vicoletto. Each of these came with its own breathtaking views, where dinners were routinely served with the sun sinking below the horizon, filling the sky with vibrant shades of orange, pink, and purple.
Who knows what adventures we would have missed out on had we stuck to our original plan? All I know is that we will always look back on our time on this beautiful island with fond memories and a longing to return.
