Our ascent to the highest mountain on the island takes us away from the crowds of tourists along shady forest paths. Our ascent begins with a panoramic trail that gives us a breathtaking view of Forio. Through a sea of rocks and past interesting rock formations, we reach “Pietra dell'Acqua.” You will learn what secret is hidden behind the green rocks along the path and that the Epomeo is not a volcano. It is a piece of land raised by tectonic forces. The hiking trail finally leads us over a wide mountain ridge to the Epomeo. At its summit, at an altitude of 789 m, we will be rewarded with a wonderful 360° panoramic view. After our lunch break at approximately 13:00 in the summit restaurant, we will descend for 30 minutes towards Fontana, where the transfer bus will be waiting to take you back to your hotel.

It is also doable in the middle of summer, as it is much cooler at the higher altitudes than on the beach! We walk through lofty heights and forests and are therefore not exposed to the harsh sun. Last but not least: Wear well-fitting shoes, then walking will be more relaxed, and bring a lot of good cheer and also a light jacket.

INSIDER TIP: In the rustic summit restaurant, which was carved into the rock, you can expect a sunny panoramic terrace and delicious specialities from the excellent chef Teresa: for example, “Epomeo” spaghetti with garlic, spicy pepperoni, nutty pine nuts, and mildly sweet raisins. Or, of course, the classic: bruschetta with their own Epomeo tomatoes and the aromatic basil from the summit herb garden!

GEOLOGIST'S TIP: Take a closer look at the tuffstones along the path! Can you see their green coloration? Green Epomeo tuff is the typical rock of the island of Ischia. It is made up of solidified volcanic ash deposits. The tuff owes its green colour to the iron-containing silicates in the rock, which were formed under the influence of seawater.