Ischia
Overview: Less glamorous than its younger sister Capri, this picturesque volcanic island in the Tyrrhenian Sea, at the northwest entrance to the Gulf of Naples, is thick with mineral-rich natural springs and thermal spas — some of the most renowned in Europe. The outdoor Baia di Sorgeto and Le Fumarole dei Maronti are open to the public, but there are numerous private offerings, too.
Extracurricular: Beyond the spas, cultural heritage can be found in the archaeological and marine museums and at the medieval Aragonese Castle. The foothills of Mount Epomeo are nothing but unspoiled forest to hike through, and you can snorkel over the remains of a Roman city on the sea floor at Cartaromana Beach.
Bonus: You get the best of both worlds here: the high-style vibe of a luxe dolce vita wrapped in simple, rural Italian authenticity.
