Giardini La Mortella

About

Giardini La Mortella is a magnificent Mediterranean and subtropical garden perched on a rocky promontory in Forio, Ischia. Designed by the celebrated landscape artist Russell Page and cultivated over more than 50 years by Susana Walton, the garden today boasts a dazzling array of tropical plants, intricate water features, and themed terraces that offer sweeping views of the harbour. The estate also houses a Greek theatre, where seasonal concerts and performances by young orchestras are staged, as well as the William Walton Museum that celebrates the life and works of the composer. Open to the public from 1 April to 2 November, the gardens host regular music festivals and master‑class events, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a unique blend of horticultural beauty and cultural enrichment. From the lush valley filled with flowering ginkgos, ferns, and towering ancient pines, to the terraced hillside that shelters the theatre’s open‑air stage, every area of La Mortella offers a distinct sensory experience—from vibrant blooms to the gentle sound of cascading waterfalls. Guided tours are available, and the garden’s design encourages strolling through secluded coves and graceful walkways, making it ideal for families, history enthusiasts, and solo travelers alike. The gardens remain a private yet accessible cultural treasure, renowned as one of Italy’s finest private gardens. Its combination of formal Italian style with exotic tropical touches creates an unforgettable landscape, remembered as a place of peace, music, and botanical wonder.

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes