Mount Epomeo Volcano

Mount Epomeo is the highest point on the island of Ischia in the Tyrrhenian Sea off the coast of Naples, Campania, with a summit at about 789 metres. It is a volcanic uplift that dominates the island’s central ridge.

Trails and narrow roads reach the upper slopes and summit area; hikes typically take a few hours from nearby villages and offer panoramic views across the Bay of Naples and the surrounding islands. The slopes are dotted with small villages and agricultural terraces.

The mountain is volcanic in origin and forms the central spine of Ischia; its geology and topography reflect the island’s volcanic history. Over time the summit and slopes have been used for small-scale farming, settlement, and seasonal grazing.

Epomeo occupies central Ischia, rising above the island’s towns and vineyards and overlooking the Bay of Naples to the east and south.

• Elevation: Highest point on the island of Ischia at 789 metres.

What to See#

• Serrara Fontana: The summit area is within the municipality of Serrara Fontana and is surrounded by small villages and terraces on Ischia’s central ridge.

Mount Epomeo sits at the center of Ischia island (Gulf of Naples). To reach Ischia, take a ferry or hydrofoil from Naples (Molo Beverello or Calata Porta di Massa) to Ischia Porto. From Ischia Porto you can take local buses or a taxi toward the villages of Fontana/Serrara (the island bus network serves these villages); from the village of Fontana a well-marked footpath and local tracks lead up to the summit (the final approach is a short uphill walk from the village road).

There is no rail service to Ischia; all mainland connections are by ferry/hydrofoil from Naples, Pozzuoli or Sorrento. On the island itself, buses and taxis connect Ischia Porto with the trailhead villages.

• Aim for a morning ascent when visibility is clearest and temperatures are cooler - the summit is Ischia's highest point and early light gives the best panoramic views across the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Bay of Naples.
• The climb is relatively short compared with mainland peaks, so avoid the busiest hours (late afternoon on summer weekends) by starting midweek or at first light to have the ridge largely to yourself.
• Stick to the marked paths to the summit viewpoint - many visitors pass through on day trips from the island's towns, so combine the hike with a quieter arrival or departure time on the ferry to dodge peak tourist traffic.