Hiking in Ischia: Bosco della Maddalena e Monte Rotaro

A natural oasis, known as the Green Lung of the island of Ischia and ideal for hiking enthusiasts, lies very close to the hotel, about 500 meters away.

It covers about 450,000 square meters and lies on the borders of the municipalities of Casamicciola, Barano, and Ischia, nestled between the Bosco della Maddalena (Maddalena Forest), Monte Rotaro (Mount Rotaro), and the Pineta di Castiglione (Pine forest of Castiglione).

The Bosco della Maddalena and the Pineta di Castiglione offer enjoyable excursions and walks amidst the greenery. Panoramic points along the trails provide breathtaking views of the port of Ischia, the islands of Procida and Vivara, extending down to the coast. Additionally, the colors and scents emitted by the typical species of the Mediterranean scrub will invigorate the senses of visitors.

CURIOSITIES

An area situated at the base of the highest point (Rotaro 2), known as “Fornace” (meaning “kiln” in Italian), once served as a site for charcoal production, following an ancient tradition. A pyramid of wood covered with moss and mud was constructed, featuring a hole at the top and others placed vertically, which were opened and closed as necessary to regulate the combustion of the charcoal.

Access Point

The easiest way to access the area from the hotel is through Fondo d’Oglio, which is just one bus stop away. Here, you’ll find the Crater of Rotaro, measuring about 350 meters in diameter and 127 meters deep. Following the main road up, a long footpath on the left takes you to the center of the crater.

Additionally, a tree-lined path separates Monte Rotaro from the Bosco della Maddalena.

Monte Rotaro

Monte Rotaro, standing at 266 meters, boasts lush, evergreen Mediterranean vegetation, primarily dominated by Holm Oak. As you proceed along the footpath, you’ll notice a slightly lower level on the left, about 50 meters ahead, characterized by sparse vegetation. Here, you’ll encounter the “fumaroles”: classic emissions of steam and gas from the magma chamber, typically found near active volcano craters or in hydrothermal areas where volcanic activity has ceased.

Continuing along the path leads you to a large square nestled within the crater of Rotaro, providing easy access to a trail that completes the circuit.

The crater, known as Fondo d’Oglio, features the classic cone shape.

Flora

In this area, the “Cyperus polystachyus,” also known as the papyrus of fumaroles, grows spontaneously, a characteristic of tropical areas but entirely absent in Europe.
The flora here includes the Rockrose (Cistus salvifolius), Myrtle (Myrtus communis), Mastic Tree (Pistacia lentiscus), Prickly Ivy (Smilax aspera), Tree Heather (Erica arborea), Strawberry Tree (Arbutus unedo), Scotch Broom (Cytisus scoparius), Honeysuckle (Lonicera implexa), Blackberry (Rubus sp.), and Bracken (Pteridium aquilinum).
It’s not by chance that Monte Rotaro is an area of high environmental value, designated as a Site of Community Importance under the Habitats Directive and Birds Directive, making it a true hiking paradise in Ischia.

Less than a 10-minute walk away

Additional Information

The forest relies on Monte Rotaro as its geographical foundation. This hill’s name, originating from the fusion of “crater” or “cretaio,” meaning chalky, forms a complex volcanic structure shaped by various types of eruptions (volcanic layering).

From a morphological perspective, we can identify the following features:

A nearly perfect cone located to the south (Rotaro 1).
An eccentric crater housing a stagnant dome (Rotaro 2).
A small semicircular crater from which a lava flow extends to the sea (Rotaro 3).
The lava flow originating from Rotaro 3 (Rotaro 4).

The forest thrives on volcanic rocks and soils, including loose and lava types.

Note: It is recommended to proceed with an experienced local guide who will allow you to enjoy every moment of your excursion. We decline all responsibility arising from the use of the trails.

On this page, you’ll discover information about excursions and hiking trails in Ischia.

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