Discovering the largest and liveliest island in the Gulf of Naples, a popular destination for travelers in search of relaxation and physical well-being and a renowned tourist center much in vogue among artists and literati during the 1800s and 1900s.
A ride through the soul of this authentic island, ancient Pithecusa, a mountain in the middle of the sea whose beauty was already extolled in ancient times. From the Tyrrhenian coast and its quaint villages to the slopes of Mount Epomeo, discovering a volcanic territory that gives thermal waters known throughout Europe and used since the first settlers in the 8th century BC.

Itinerary featured in the Guidebook Viatoribus “Italia in Bici con Gusto”

Itinerary description:
The loop route is 29 km long, starting and returning at Ischia Porto.
Take SP 270 west, after an initial uphill stretch you first reach the slopes of Mount Rotaro then descend back to Casamicciola Terme. Skirting the sea, continue to the small port of Lacco Ameno, then pedal to Punta Caruso and the splendid La Mortella Gardens. In 2 km you thus land in the seaside village of Forio.
From here we begin to climb inland. In the locality of Cuotto the small road to the panoramic viewpoint of Punta Imperatore starts, and shortly after in the locality of Panza there are two nice detours back to the coast: to the bay of Sorgeto and to the nearby Sant’Angelo, one of the most fascinating places on the island.
Continuing inland, however, from Panza one climbs to the slopes of Mount Epomeo, reaching the viewpoint of Serrara and then Fontana, the highest point of the route and starting point for walks to the mountain.
Here begins the descent, which passes through Buonopane, Barano d’Ischia and Piedimonte, ending at the junction for Sant’Antuono, where you leave SP 270 to turn right (Via Mazzella) toward Ischia Ponte and then Ischia Porto.
In Sant’Antuono you can also take a detour to the Campagnano promontory.

Route type: loop
Length: 29 km
Elevation gain: 610 m
Downhill elevation gain: 610 m
Highest point: 455 m
Lowest point: 3 m
Type of surface: asphalt

Technical tips:
The route is on paved road and is of medium difficulty. The most challenging section is the 7-km climb to Serrara and Fontana.
Several detours from the main route are recommended: Punta Imperatore (1.5 km), Sorgeto (1.8 km), Sant’Angelo (3.2 km), Campagnano promontory (4.7 km).

Place of departure: Ischia
Place of departure: Ischia Porto
Municipality of arrival: Ischia
Place of arrival: Ischia Porto

Recommended period: March to October