La Mortella Gardens (Giardini La Mortella)
Via Francesco Calise Operaio Foriano 45, Forio, Naples, Italy, 80075
Considered one of the most beautiful private gardens in Europe, La Mortella Botanic Gardens is a highlight of the island of Ischia, and a must-see for garden enthusiasts. Stroll through the valley garden, hill garden, and conservatory to admire the collection of lush plants and flowers, or attend a concert at the gardens’ Greek Theater.
The basics
The colorful La Mortella Botanic Gardens in the coastal town of Forio were created in 1958 but only opened to the public in 1991. Join a bus tour of the island that stops at La Mortella, or take a boat tour of Ischia that includes time on land to explore the gardens along with other top attractions, including the thermal springs, coastline, and Aragonese Castle. In addition to La Mortella, Forio is also home to the Ravino Gardens, as well as a delightful historic center, the pretty Chiesa del Soccorso, and Citara Beach, one of the most beautiful on the island.
Things to know before you go
- Garden and horticulture aficionados will especially enjoy exploring the botanical gardens, along with the nearby Ravino Gardens.
- The gardens are crisscrossed by outdoor walking paths, so wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunblock.
- The view from the gardens over Forio is particularly beautiful and worth bringing your camera to.
How to get there
La Mortella is located in Forio, the second largest town on the island and easily reached by bus or taxi from the main town of Ischia Porto. To reach the island of Ischia, take a ferry or private boat from Naples, Sorrento, and the Amalfi Coast.
When to get there
Ischia can be very crowded between June and September when the summer season is in high swing, so visit in spring and fall, when the weather is warm but the island is quieter.
La Mortella’s Hill and Valley
The botanic gardens are divided into two areas, each with a distinct character. The hill garden features Mediterranean vegetation and architectural elements that reflect the history of Ischia, mainly the Greek Theater carved out of the mountain slope with a stage overlooking the Bay of Forio. The valley garden is home to a wide variety of trees and flowers, including ginkgo Biloba trees, magnolias, hydrangeas, tree ferns, geraniums, Brahea palms, yucca, and aloe plants, and water lilies.
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