Itineraries through Ischia's volcanic heritage

Located in Italy's Campania region, Ischia island is part of a large volcanic field that incorporates the nearby Vesuvius and Phlegrean fields. Over time, the island has been shaped and moulded by a series of eruptive volcanic events.

While the horst of Mount Epomeo is the most dominant of Ischia's volcanic uplifts and is often referred to as the island's volcano, in fact Ischia's most recent crater mouth is that of Mount Rotaro, more to the island's east, near the towns of Ischia Porto and Casamicciola.

Even so, the most recent volcanic eruption was still as far back as 1301 A.D, and today the only signs of Ischia's continuing volcanic claim is the luxurious thermal springs and fumaroles fissures that escape its crust, carrying with them all the pleasure and health of the island's famous thermal spas.

The island's highest peak is Mount Epomeo, towering 780 metres above sea level and after a fresh lot of rain the night before, there is no better place. The horizon is clear and you can see all of the island, Capri, Naples, along with the Campania coastline glistening before your eyes.

A trek to Mount Epomeo's summit is only a starting point for walking expeditions through Ischia's volcanic and natural milieu.

Some itineraries developed by one of the island's local councils give an indication of the diverse scope of its geography and habitat, such as the Great Crater Walk, Il sentiero del grande cratere, the Springs Walk, Il sentiero della fonte, or the Bays Walk, Il sentiero delle baie.

In addition, two physics students, R. Scandone and L. Giacomelli, from the University of Rome Tre have created an interesting do-it-yourself tour of Ischia's geological sites that takes about two to three days, beginning at Ischia Porto and ending at Ischia's Fondo d'Oglio crater.

Whether for the bird's eye view from its mounts, the fresh smells of the countryside or the uncovering of the island's geomorphology, Ischia's volcanic heritage leaves a sensory imprint in your mind.