Monte Epomeo

The highest point on the island of Ischia, the mountain peaks at 789 meters above sea level. Mt. Epomeo is Ischia's most visible landmark. Trails lead to the top, passing woods and valleys, so you'll see why Ischia is called "the green island". There are stables where you can hire horses or mules to ride on the mountain, too.

Trails from each side of the island lead up to the peak, and maps are available from newsstands and other shops. The most popular trail is the one that leads from the Piazzetta in Fontana and winds it way up to the mountain top. From the heights you'll be able to see how the south side slopes more gently down to the cliffs that plunge to the sea, and the terrain is covered with vineyards that make Ischia's wine.

The Eremo di San Nicola is a charming chapel carved out of the rock, on top of Mt. Epomeo. The hermitage is dedicated to St. Nicholas and dates to the early 1400s. There is a restaurant there where you can enjoy a nice lunch as a reward for the uphill labor to reach this beautiful spot. The restaurant is open from February throgh November for lunch; it's also open for dinner in July and August, by reservation.

The views from the top are spectacular, taking in the islands of Capri and Ponza, and stretching to Gaeta and Naples on the mainland.