A tour of the Phlegraean archipelago to enjoy the wild beauty of its islands: from Mt. Epomeo, which reveals the mysterious side of Ischia with its sharp peaks and the gorges dug out of the tufa rock, to Mt. Solaro of Capri, which offers an enchanting natural setting.
Day 1
The Greenish Tufa of Mt. Epomeo
Arrival on Ischia and check-in at hotel. Afterwards, excursion to Mt. Epomeo, which dominates the island from its height of 789 meters. The path reveals the geological evolution of the volcanic island, with its deep gorges dug out of the tufa rock by the eroding action of water and wind. From the summit, we enjoy a panoramic view covering a radius of about 108 km. It is also possible to visit the Hermitage and the church of San Nicola (15th century). Picnic during the excursion and return to hotel in the evening for dinner and overnight stay.
2
From Sant’Angelo to Cava Scura
After breakfast, the excursion begins at Sant’Angelo, a characteristic fishing village situated between the two bays and dominated by the remains of the tower of the same name, and ends at Vallone di Cava Scura, well know for its grottos and fumaroles. The route offers scenic views characterized by walls dug out of the tufa rock and typical terrace cultivations. Return to the starting point on foot or by bus; return to hotel for dinner and overnight stay. Length: 5 km; difference in height 380 m; average difficulty along descending stretch.
3
Mt. Solaro on Capri
After breakfast, transfer by hydrofoil to Capri. After reaching Piazza della Vittoria at Anacapri by shuttle-bus, the excursion up Mt. Solaro begins. To reach the 589-meter summit, the path leads the hiker amidst broom bushes, ferns, and a sparse brush, from which emerge the remains of the fortresses built by the English in the 19th century and the Sanctuary of Santa Maria Cetrella. Picnic during the excursion and return to Ischia in the evening for dinner and overnight stay.
4
Return
Breakfast at the hotel and leisure time. We recommend a visit to the Archaeology Museum of Villa Arbusto, at Lacco Ameno, which has archaeological finds from the ancient city of Pithecusae, founded by the Greeks in 770 B.C., including the famous “Cup of Nestor”, with an inscription in the language of Chalcidice, dating from 730 B.C. Departure as planned.
