Two fantasticaaa islands in one day? It sounds like a whirlwind, doesn't it? But here’s the secret: to truly soak in that Mediterranean magic, you have to embrace the mantra of "less is more." Don't try to see everything. Instead, choose a few soulful activities, savor the local flavors, and just chill.
Last week, we talked about travel personas. Many of you said you couldn't pick just one—and I’m exactly the same! My persona usually reveals itself the moment I step onto the deck, and my recent SNAV adventure was no exception.
Setting Sail: Pro-Tips for the Journey
The forecast was perfect—not a cloud in sight. I boarded the SNAV hydrofoil, headed straight for the second floor, and snagged a front-row seat. We pulled out of Naples at 8:30 a.m., and I have a pro-tip for your next trip:
Sit on the Right: For sweeping views of the Naples coastline.
Sit on the Left: For the best first look at Procida and Casamicciola.
I chose the left, leaned back, and let the anticipation build.
9:30 AM: Landing in the Cradle of History
After a quick stop in Procida (stay on board—our time there comes later!), we docked in Casamicciola at 9:30 a.m. This gave me a perfect four-hour window to explore before the 2:00 p.m. return leg.
My first priority? Lacco Ameno. From the port, you can take a taxi or a bus, but since the weather was gorgeous, I opted for my own two feet. It’s a scenic 15-20 minute stroll to the right. The sidewalk is wide, the air is salty, and the views are simply breathtaking.
Why Lacco Ameno? Because this is where it all began. In the 8th century B.C., Euboean settlers landed here to establish Pithecusa, the very first colony of Magna Grecia. Long before the Roman Empire was even a thought, this bay was a bustling Mediterranean hub.
The Mushroom Rock & The "Rizzoli" Glamour
As you walk, you’ll see it rising from the waves: Il Fungo (The Mushroom Rock). This epic green tufa formation was spat out by a volcanic eruption centuries ago and eroded by the sea into its iconic shape. I took my time admiring it with a scoop of Gasparotto Gelato in hand—absolute bliss.
Next, I wandered onto Corso Angelo Rizzoli. This street is a dream for lovers of curated shopping. Ever since the mid-century "Rizzoli" era, Lacco Ameno has been a premier healing destination. You can't leave without browsing the local herbalists for volcanic mud masks and thermal spa creams—Ischia’s "Green Island" secret for eternal youth!
The Beating Heart: Piazza Santa Restituta
Eager for a bit of soul, I headed to the main piazza to visit the Basilica di Santa Restituta. It is easily one of the most beautiful churches on the island. As the sanctuary of Ischia’s patron saint, it holds a deep emotional weight you can feel the moment you step inside. If you visit in May, you’ll catch the vibrant festival that transforms the entire town into a celebration of faith and fire.
11:30 AM: The 3-Minute Hop
After two hours of perfect "slow" exploration, I hopped on the local EAV bus (I highly recommend downloading the app for easy tickets!) for a quick 3-minute ride back to Casamicciola. It was the perfect morning—a blend of history, indulgence, and sea air.
A Special Treat for the Andiamotrips Community
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Your Lacco Ameno Travel Directory
Where to Eat & Drink:
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Must-Visit Cultural Stops:
Stay tuned for my next post, where I’ll dive into how I spent my final hours in Casamicciola before heading over to Procida!
See you in the Piazza!
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