Monte Epomeo – loop tour on the Island of Ischia

Embark on the Monte Epomeo loop tour, a moderate 3.3-mile (5.3 km) hike that climbs 990 feet (302 metres) to the highest point on the Island of Ischia. This route typically takes about 1 hour and 51 minutes to complete, offering a rewarding experience. You will start on paved roads that gradually ascend through villages, then transition to natural mountain paths winding through cultivated terraces and shady chestnut forests. As you near the summit, expect sections with slippery boulders and steps carved into the rock, leading to the incredible 360-degree panoramic view from the top.

While the trail is generally well-marked, good fitness and sure-footedness are recommended, especially on the rocky sections closer to the peak. The most popular starting point is Fontana, which offers a quicker route to the summit, though you can also begin your hike from Forio or Casamicciola. Proper hiking shoes are essential for navigating the varied terrain, which includes sunken mule tracks and narrow gullies carved into the tuff rock.

At the summit, you will discover the historic Chiesa di San Nicola, a 15th-century church carved directly into the mountain's tuff rock, which once served as a hermitage. A rustic restaurant, also partly carved into the rock, provides a chance to enjoy local specialties while taking in the expansive views. From this vantage point, you can see the entire island of Ischia, the Gulf of Naples, Mount Vesuvius, Capri, and even distant islands on a clear day, highlighting Ischia's nickname, "the Green Island," due to its abundant vegetation.