Castello Aragonese, the most impressive historic monument of Ischia, stands on a volcanic rock, called Ischia Ponte, and is connected to the island proper by a bridge built in 1438 by Alfonso of Aragon. The castle, overlooking the vast sea, was originally built as a castrum in 474 BC by Gerone of Siracusa and, after a long period of abandonment, reached its golden period during the 14th century. Under the Aragonese dynasty, it became an important political, cultural, and spiritual center. The peak of the castle’s splendor was during the Renaissance court of the poet Vittoria Colonna. The castle walls hold churches, courtyards, archways, terraces, gardens, and arcades with stunning views of the sea, the peninsula, and the Harbor of Ischia.The castle now houses a small, chic hotel and three separate apartments (Cedrina, Limoncina, and Erba Luisa,) each with a spectacular view. A lift connects the entrance of the castle to the top where the apartments are located. Each apartment has a private entrance through an ancient historic courtyard. The three units have been recently renovated by their owner, the son of an artist whose paintings grace the apartment walls. All have windows with stunning, unforgettable views. Apartment guests may enjoy porter and concierge services at no additional cost from the adjacent hotel, and access to hotel terrace dining. The apartments may be rented separately, or two or all three together if your party is larger than can be accommodated in one unit.Please note:
This property is not recommended for people with walking disabilities or for children between 1 and 10 years of age. If children are included in your party, it is recommended that they remain under adult supervision at all times.
Parking is very limited on Ischia. It is recommended that you not bring a car to Ischia, but use the bus and taxi services available on the island. Transfer service from Naples or Sorrento is recommended and MUST BE PRE-ARRANGED.Price includes: Hotel porter, hotel concierge, access to the hotel restaurant, and standard first dinner at the hotel restaurant from Easter to the end of the October.
Fee services available upon request: Transfer service and advanced grocery shopping.Apartment Erba Luisa is a large and sunny studio with a balcony that has a stunning panoramic view. The great room is furnished with a sofa and queen bed, and has an adjoining kitchenette equipped with a cook top, refrigerator and sink. This apartment also has one shower bathroom.The Bay of Naples is nestled in the horseshoe between Naples and Sorrento. Both cities are convenient departure points to catch a hydrofoil to the islands of Ischia, Procida, Vivara, and Capri. Known as the Partenopean Islands of the Bay of Naples, Ischia, Procida and Vivara lie in the north of the gulf, while Capri lies in the south facing the peninsula of Sorrento. Each island has its own ambience: Capri is known for its shops, pristine waters, and as the playground of celebrities. Procida is the quietest of the islands with its winding streets and empty shores. Ischia, about 25 miles in circumference, is known for its natural hot springs, therapeutic waters and the historic ruins that dot the island.Ischia’s combination of sea, sand, and sky coupled with its rich, earthy beauty make it an idyllic vacation spot. Dominated by Mount Epomeo, Ischia is covered with hills and valleys. Add to the landscape the chestnut, oak, and lemon groves amidst the historic ruins, this island has a distinctive mystique about it. The island is famous for its natural hot springs and spas, appreciated for centuries and especially by the Romans.Suggested activities on and around Ischia include:
• The hot baths at Negombo, in the Bay of S. Montano near Lacco Ameno, are particularly chic. The facilities are well cared for with many different pools and beautiful garden surroundings.
• Boat trips around the island.
• Visits to the Spadara Vineyards and the Pararazzo wines of Ischia cellars, including wine tasting.
• Guided country walks to explore the ancient dwellings on the island.
• Guided tours of the La Morterlla Gardens.
• Guided visits to the Archeological Museum at Villa Arbusto.
• Guided visits to the archeological site at Santa Restituta.
• Day trips, via hydrofoil, to Capri, Procida, Vivara, Naples, Pompei, Herculaneum, and Paestum.