In north of the gulf of Naples is located the volcanic Esmerald Island of Ischia, the biggest of the Phlegrean Islands. Its highest peak, the Mount Epomeo, was once an active volcano, nowadays is dormant but still important for the thermal waters. The island was a Greek colony and is famous for its beaches, wellness centre and wine production. Ischia has a lot of ancient thermal springs of several kind, its thermal muds may be used for curative, wellness or beauty treatments.
There are several communities but the biggest is Ischia Porto where are located most of the people and facilities. On the east side of the island you can visit the Castello Aragonese, situated on an isolated rock and linked to the mainland through a bridge, was used to protect the island from external raids. On the north of the island in the village of Lacco Ameno where are located some of the best hotels, furthermore from the beach you can admire the Mushroom Rock (Il Fungo), particular mushroom-shaped rock which rises from the water. On the west side of the island you can visit the Garden Museum La Mortella with thousands of rare plants from every corner of the world. Great beaches can be found in the south in the Lido dei Maronti.
