Trails of the Bay of Naples and the islands of Ischia and Procida
In summary
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Sports
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Duration7 days
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LevelBeginner
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DestinationItaly / Campania
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AgeFrom 18 - 85 years
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CO₂-Emissions100.18 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
Italian
In a few words
Discover the hidden charm of the Gulf of Naples on a journey between land and sea, far from the hustle and bustle of the coast. This trip first takes you to Procida , a small, authentic gem famous for its colorful fishermen's houses and peaceful atmosphere. The journey continues to Ischia , "the island of a hundred springs," where volcanic nature offers landscapes of exceptional fertility.
Through easy hikes , you'll explore trails winding between vineyards planted on basalt soils and the wooded slopes of Mount Epoma , an ancient volcano that proudly overlooks the archipelago. Each stage is an immersion in a preserved Mediterranean culture, amidst splendid bays and crystal-clear waters.
To gently conclude this adventure, you'll enjoy the island's geothermal benefits. A moment of absolute relaxation awaits you in natural thermal pools , where warm water springs from the earth against the vast azure sky. A perfect combination of active exploration and contemplative rejuvenation in the heart of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
The highlights
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The welcoming hotel with thermal pool in Ischia
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Procida the pearl of the Gulf, Ischia and its volcano
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Swimming is possible every day.
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
- Physical Level:
Casual Walker. For any hiker looking for a leisurely pace, with an accessible level of physical and technical ability. 2 hours 45 minutes to 4 hours of walking per day on average, with +/-100 to +/-300 meters of elevation gain (except for Day 6, 500 meters of descent).
- Technical level:
These hikes on paths and trails are suitable for experienced walkers. Despite the generally accessible fitness level, the ascent to Monte Epomeo is slightly more strenuous than the other days. Steps are present in some sections, making certain slopes more challenging or technical.
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 3h
- Average daily elevation gain: 150 m
- Average daily descent: 259 m
Management
French
Italian
State-certified mid-mountain guide, specialist in Italy.
The swimming activities mentioned in the program are optional and undertaken at the participants' own risk during free time. They are not supervised by the guide.
Program
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Paris (or Province) - Naples
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Optional flight from Paris (or other French cities) to Naples. Meet at 4:00 PM at the hotel located near the port (close to the airport shuttle terminal). Visit the historic center of Naples and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the "Quartieri Spagnoli" (Spanish Quarter). Dinner is at your own expense (our guide will reserve a restaurant for you to gather and get to know each other; optional). Overnight stay in a 3-star hotel.
Day 1 -
Ischia and its fumarole beaches
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Positive elevation gain 100 m
- Negative elevation 250 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We're taking the ferry to Ischia (1 hour crossing). We're checking into the hotel for the next 5 nights.
Private bus transfer (20 min) to Barano d'Ischia, a hilltop village overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. We walk towards Sant'Angelo beach at the southern tip of the island to reach this charming village. Along the way, we admire Maronti beach, famous for its fumaroles (a phenomenon that testifies to the island's volcanic activity). Return by private bus to the hotel (10 min).
Day 2 -
Ischia and its botanical garden
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h30
- Positive elevation gain 200 m
- Negative elevation 300 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Starting on foot from the hotel, in the village of Forio, we visit the gardens of "La Mortella," a Mediterranean and subtropical garden considered one of the most beautiful private gardens in Italy! We continue along wooded paths and the seaside to the villa where Visconti is buried. There's an opportunity to swim at one of the island's most beautiful beaches. We then continue to the village of Lacco Ameno, famous for its "fungo," a unique mushroom-shaped volcanic formation. Private transfer (15 minutes) returns us to the hotel.
Day 3 -
The vineyards of Ischia
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Positive elevation gain 300 m
- Negative elevation 300 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Private transfer (30 min) to the village of Barano d'Ischia. We follow beautiful paths lined with dry stone walls and cross vineyards perched between sky and sea. The hike ends in Campagnano, followed by a private transfer to the hotel (30 min).
Day 4 -
Procida the pearl of the Gulf of Naples - Ischia
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Positive elevation gain 200 m
- Negative elevation 200 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
In the morning, a private bus transfer (35 minutes) takes us to the isolated Castello Aragonese on its islet, followed by a visit to the fortress and its gardens. We then stroll to the port where we board a ferry to Procida (20 minutes). From there, we reach Terra Murata, the highest point on the island (90 meters), with its medieval fortifications, the Castle of Avalos, and the Abbey of San Michele. Next, we explore the small fishing port of Marina Corricella, with its pastel-colored houses, before returning to Ischia by boat (35 minutes) and a taxi transfer to the hotel (20 minutes).
Day 5 -
Ischia and Monte Epomeo (789m)
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h45
- Positive elevation gain 100 m
- Negative elevation 500 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Short transfer to the village of Fontana (20 min). Hike to Monte Epomeo (789 m) through terraced vineyards. At the summit, enjoy a magnificent 360° view of the entire island and the Bay of Naples. Return to the hotel by private bus (15 min). For this last day in Ischia, you have the option of swimming in the sea or a relaxing afternoon at the splendid Poseidon thermal baths (optional, payable locally), which are a 10-minute walk from the hotel.
These seaside thermal baths have more than twenty (outdoor) pools, supplied by thermal waters known for their curative properties and are hidden amidst greenery.
Day 6 -
Island of Ischia - Naples - Paris (or province)
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Transfer to the port of Ischia after breakfast and embarkation for Naples (1 hour 15 minute crossing). Shuttle service available from Naples airport. Flight to Paris (or other French cities), optional .
Day 7
Note
It's a splendid route, in a more discreet area, which contrasts with the crowds of the Amalfi Coast, and yet, it's a stay that is just as beautiful.
The durations of our hikes are approximate. They may vary depending on several factors during your stay (participants' skill level, weather, trail conditions, etc.). Transfer times may also fluctuate depending on weather conditions and road conditions. The program was established based on the latest information available at the time of writing and may be subject to change in the interest of quality. Furthermore, situations beyond our control may alter the course of your trip (weather, road closures, canceled or delayed flights, strikes, local festivals, etc.).
The swimming activities mentioned in the program are optional and undertaken at the participants' own risk during free time. They are not supervised by the guide.
Accommodation
A family-run 3-star hotel in Naples, located near the port, making it easy to travel to the islands and easily accessible from the airport via the Alibus shuttle (stop at the terminus). It is also 1 km from the train station.
This 3-star hotel in Ischia features outdoor pools (regular and thermal, water heated to 38°C). Located between the sea and the mountains, this family-run hotel offers relaxing moments in its garden, surrounded by palm trees, olive trees, and various Mediterranean plants.
Access
APPOINTMENT :
Meet your guide at the hotel reception in Naples at 4:00 PM for the start of the tour. If you arrive after 4:00 PM or the day before, please contact the guide to arrange a meeting time.
You will receive an email invitation approximately 2 weeks before your departure: it summarizes the useful information to get to the meeting point (contact details of your first accommodation, first name and telephone number of your guide, our emergency mobile number, plane tickets / e-ticket for stays with flight, etc...).
DISPERSION:
Saturday at the Naples Maritime Station, mid-morning (numerous direct shuttles from the Maritime Station to the bus station and to the airport).
Go to the starting point
- If you arrive at a different time than the rest of the group, to get to the hotel located in the center of Naples: take the Alibus shuttle (approximately €5 - daily service from 7:30 am to 8:30 pm). You will get off at the "Piazza Garibaldi" stop, located next to the train station.
- Option to choose the stay with flights included from Paris (possibility of departure from other regions with supplement, please contact us).
Price details
The price includes
- The trip will be supervised by a state-certified mountain guide specializing in Italy.
- Accommodation in a 3-star hotel with half-board from day 2 to day 6
- Picnics at lunchtime (except for picnics on Day 1 and Day 7)
- Tourist taxes
- The transfers planned in the program (public and private)
- Boat crossings to Ischia and Procida
- The entrance to the Mortella gardens
- The entrance to the Aragonese Castle
The price does not include
- Flights (optional) and other transport to and from the meeting point
- Lunches on Day 1 and Day 7, and dinner on Day 1
- Airport/city centre transfers in Naples (€10 round trip)
- Drinks and personal expenses (note that in restaurants, bottled mineral water is sold separately instead of tap water)
- Anything not listed under "Price includes"
Options
- Single room (subject to availability) : CHF265.29 / person
- Flight package : CHF411.66 / person
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
During your stay, you must have your valid identity card or passport, your health insurance card, your personal insurance policy number and phone number (if you are not covered by our insurance), and for stays in Europe, your European Health Insurance Card. This card is very useful if you have any issues paying upfront for medical care in European countries; you must apply for it at least 15 days in advance at your social security office.
It is possible to travel to this European Union country without a passport, using only a national identity card. If your identity card was issued between January 2, 2004, and December 31, 2013, and you were an adult at the time of issuance, its validity has been automatically extended by 5 years (formalized agreement between France and your destination country).
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
LUGGAGE
- One travel bag per person (or a rolling suitcase; recommended for trips with public transport included for transfers). Oversized luggage should be avoided as it would cause problems with bus capacity or logistical organization.
- One 35-40 liter backpack with a flexible frame, hip belt, and well-ventilated back panel for your comfort (to carry your personal belongings for the day: camera, packed lunch, water bottle, snacks, windbreaker, sweater, rain gear, etc.). This bag is usually placed in the cabin for any air travel (10kg maximum per person, typically).
FOR THE PICNIC
- Cutlery (reusable, not disposable)
- 1 airtight plastic container with a minimum capacity of 0.5 liters. It can be used as a plate and for storage, without getting your bag dirty.
- 1 plastic or aluminum cup with an insulated handle to prevent burns from hot drinks
- 1 folding pocket knife (optional)
- One insulated or aluminum water bottle of at least 1.5 liters, or a flexible water bottle (not recommended in winter). Especially useful in winter, also bring (optional) an insulated bottle to carry tea, coffee, etc. during the hike.
OTHERS
- 1 large plastic bag to slip into your backpack to protect your belongings from the elements and/or 1 rain cover
- 1 waterproof pouch containing: your assistance contract, your identity documents, health insurance card and any other document mentioned in the formalities section
- 1 sturdy and lightweight umbrella (optional but very useful in case of rain, or even heatwave)
- 1 pair of telescopic walking poles (depending on your habits or the technical level of the hikes, refer to the "Technical Level" section of the trip's technical sheet)
- 1 pair of good quality sunglasses (protection level 3 or 4) that provide good side coverage
- Sunscreen with a good protection factor (30 minimum)
- Toiletries kit (toothbrush, deodorant, etc.)
- Earplugs made of wax or foam (against neighbors' snoring or other noise pollution)
- Tissues
- 1 headlamp or flashlight + survival blanket: these should always be in your backpack, as an unexpected delay due to an incident can occur even during an easy hike
- Spare glasses (if you wear prescription glasses)
- Camera
- Binoculars (optional)
- Mosquito repellent is really necessary in the summer.
Clothing to bring
For the upper body, the 3-layer principle allows you to manage almost all situations:
- a light and breathable layer
- a warm layer
- a waterproof and breathable layer.
When hiking in calm, sunny weather, a base layer may be sufficient. In rainy or windy conditions, simply add this waterproof jacket. In very cold weather or during breaks, a fleece jacket is an essential addition.
Choose clothes that dry quickly, so avoid cotton. Opt for synthetic fibers that will keep you dry and warm for as long as possible.
Remember to dress warmly before you get cold, but especially to remove layers before you get too hot. Sweat is a hiker's enemy, as it dampens clothing that quickly becomes icy during breaks. Therefore, it's very rare to undertake a climb wearing a fleece jacket.
The complete and ideal list: (although this should be adapted depending on the hike, the season, and your habits)
- 1 sun hat or cap, or scarf
- 1 fleece hat or headband and/or a neck warmer
- 1 pair of lightweight gloves
- Short-sleeved T-shirts in breathable material preferred (1 for every 2 days of walking).
- 1 long-sleeved base layer in breathable material or a shirt (sometimes the peaks are windy and a light layer is welcome during the lunch break),
- 1 warm fleece-type jacket (or even water-repellent) or a warm and compressible type)
- 1 waterproof and breathable windproof jacket with hood
- 1 rain poncho (optional) and/or sleeping bag cover
- 1 pair of sturdy, loose-fitting, comfortable, water-repellent hiking trousers
- 1 pair of waterproof and breathable overtrousers
- 1 pair of shorts or capris, comfortable and durable
- Hiking socks (1 pair for 2 days of hiking). Opt for wool or specific hiking socks like terry cloth, which will prevent your feet from overheating prematurely.
- One pair of hiking boots that provide good ankle support and are waterproof, with a sole that grips well on uneven terrain and is abrasion-resistant. Consider testing new boots and those that haven't been used for a long time beforehand, or if you're used to hiking, a pair of low-cut trail shoes is ideal, especially for summer trips.
- 1 swimsuit and 1 quick-drying towel (optional in case of swimming)
- 1 pair of comfortable trousers for the evening
- 1 pair of lightweight casual shoes for the evening, like sneakers, which can also be used for sightseeing or walks in town.
If you plan to visit the Poseidon Baths (day 6), you will need to bring:
1 swimming cap (can be purchased on site, approximately €3)
flip-flop type sandals for moving from one pool to the other
1 bath towel
One swimsuit, of course
A locker is provided on site for storing your belongings.
They traveled with us
