Day Spas in Ischia

What attracts most visitors to Ischia are the island's many spas, which offer an endless variety of thermo-mineral health and beauty treatments. With over 56 different mineral springs scattered across the island's slopes and beaches, Ischia is spa-paradise with a natural resource that has been harnessed by over 150 spa operators.

A number of the island's modern facilities operate as day parks and are perfect for a one-off visit. If you want to stay longer, many hotels have their own spas and will offer package stays including meals and basic spa services, such as the use of the thermo-mineral pools. Even if you are not particularly interested in spa treatments, the outdoor spa parks are a unique and relaxing experience. Note: Many establishments specialize in medical treatments, in which even beauty care and stress relief are tackled from a scientific rather than a pampering viewpoint. In any case, remember to pack an old swimsuit, possibly dark colored, as the high mineral content of some waters will stain the fabric, or leave a sulfurous smell that is almost impossible to remove.

Located between Ischia Porto and Casamicciola, Parco Termale Castiglione (tel. 081-982551; www.termecastiglione.it), is a state-of-the-art facility offering thermo-mineral waters and mud treatments in a mix of indoor and open-air facilities. The scenic outdoor pools range in temperature from 82° to 104°F (28°-40°C). On the promontory of Monte Vico near Lacco Ameno, you'll find Parco Termale Negombo (tel. 081-986152; www.negombo.it), nestled in the island's most picturesque cove, Lido di San Montano. Here you can enjoy magnificent gardens, a secluded beach, and elegant thermal pools. South of Forio, on the pretty Bay of Citara, is Parco Termale Giardini Poseidon, Via Giovanni Mazzella Citara, Forio d'Ischia (tel. 081-9087111; www.giardiniposeidon.it), an open-air facility with 22 pools (both relaxing and curative), a large private beach, and several restaurants. Finally, to the east of Sant'Angelo, you'll find the Parco Termale Giardini Aphrodite-Apollon (tel. 081-999219; www.hotelmiramare.it), an indoor-outdoor facility with lovely grounds and pools that is part of the Park Hotel Miramare.

For a more traditional spa experience, we recommend the state-of-the-art Ischia Thermal Center, Via delle Terme 15, Ischia (tel. 081-984376; www.ischiathermalcenter.it), which offers a wide range of health and beauty treatments. We also recommend the four historical spas of Casamicciola Terme -- Terme Manzi, Belliazzi, Elisabetta, and Lucibello -- that open onto the famous Piazza Bagni in the hamlet of Bagni. For an even more exclusive experience, head to the Terme della Regina Isabella, a five-star hotel and thermal resort in Lacco Ameno and one of the most elegant spas on the island.