Ischia: La Mortella Gardens Trip with Optional Lunch

This experience made our article of Ischia’s 15 Top Tours.

Discovering La Mortella Gardens on Ischia: A Detailed Review

When you visit the beautiful island of Ischia, one experience that shouldn’t be missed is the visit to La Mortella Gardens. This 3-hour tour, offered by Sunlux Viaggi, takes you into a botanical paradise created by Susana Walton, wife of the famous English composer William Walton. The tour includes transportation from your hotel or a nearby meeting point, entrance to the gardens, and the option to enjoy a traditional Italian lunch.

What we love about this experience is how it combines natural beauty with cultural history. You’ll wander through stunning ponds, waterfalls, and rare plant collections, all while learning about the gardens’ musical and artistic roots. Plus, the added bonus of exploring the Walton’s House Museum and the atmospheric Temple of the Sun provides a layered, enriching visit.

A notable consideration is the walking terrain. As with many hillside gardens, there are steps and some steep slopes, though ramps are available for pushchairs and wheelchairs. The lift to the hill garden was reported to be out of service at times, which might be a minor inconvenience for some visitors.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful escape into nature combined with a touch of cultural history. It suits those who appreciate botanical beauty and enjoy learning about the stories behind the sights they visit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning botanical collection with rare plants from around the world, including Australian tree ferns and tropical water lilies
• Cultural insights with access to the Walton’s House Museum and the Temple of the Sun
• Beautiful scenery with ponds, fountains, waterfalls, and scenic pathways
• Flexible options, including an optional lunch, and transportation included for convenience
• Accessible features such as ramps, though some steep areas and a non-working lift might impact some visitors
• Ideal for those interested in both nature and history, with a relaxed pace and immersive atmosphere

An In-Depth Look at the La Mortella Gardens Experience

The Setting and Transportation

The tour begins with a pickup from your accommodation or a designated meeting point in Ischia. The transfer is by van, approximately an hour long, providing a comfortable and relaxed start to your day. The journey through the island’s landscapes sets the stage for what’s to come—lush vistas and glimpses of the Mediterranean coast.

Once at La Mortella, the entrance fee is included, allowing you to focus on exploring without worrying about additional costs. The tour duration is around 3 hours, which is enough time to soak in the garden’s beauty without feeling rushed.

Exploring the Gardens

La Mortella is often described as a botanical masterpiece. Created by Susana Walton, each corner of the garden feels like a carefully curated work of art. You’ll walk past ponds filled with tropical lilies and lotus flowers, see water features like fountains and waterfalls that seem to appear magically along winding paths, and admire the lush greenery from Australia to tropical Asia.

One of the most praised aspects is the variety of plants—rare species from all over the world. As Maria noted in her review, “The gardens are amazing, lots to see,” with plenty of toilets conveniently located and a charming cafe which adds to the relaxed, friendly atmosphere. The gardens are designed to surprise and delight at every turn, with quiet spots perfect for reflection or photography.

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Cultural Highlights

Beyond the botanical wonders, you have the chance to explore the Walton’s House Museum. This historic home offers insight into the life and passions of William Walton and his wife Susana. The Temple of the Sun adds a mystical touch to the gardens, offering an atmospheric space that enhances the garden’s sense of history and serenity.

The Scenic Paths

The paths wind through different sections of the gardens, some offering spectacular views of the island’s coastline. The landscape’s design emphasizes harmony between nature and art, making the walk not just visually stunning but also emotionally calming.

Note: Some reviewers mention that there are steps and steep slopes, which could be a challenge for those with mobility issues. However, ramps are available for pushchairs and wheelchairs, and most visitors find the terrain manageable—though the lift to the hill garden might not be operational during your visit.

Lunch Option

If you choose the lunch option, you’ll enjoy a meal offering authentic Italian flavors, often included in the package. This provides a welcome break and a chance to savor local cuisine amid the peaceful garden setting. For those not opting for lunch, there are cafes on-site where you can grab a coffee or light snack.

The Tour Experience

The overall tour is designed to be relaxed and immersive. It’s not a rushed visit but rather an opportunity to wander, observe, and absorb the peaceful atmosphere. Experts recommend comfortable shoes because you’ll be walking on uneven ground and stairs, and bring a camera to capture the picturesque scenery.

With small group sizes and knowledgeable guides (though guides are not included during the garden visit itself), you’ll get the chance to ask questions and learn about the botanic diversity and the garden’s history. The experience aims to give you more than just pretty pictures—it’s about understanding the care, creativity, and passion that make La Mortella special.

Real Traveler Insights

Based on reviews, many visitors appreciate the stunning views and the chance to explore at their own pace. Maria’s feedback highlights the amazing gardens and the friendly staff at the cafe. She also noted the presence of ramps for pushchairs and the general accessibility of the gardens, though the lift’s temporary malfunction was a minor downside.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and those wanting a peaceful retreat from busier tourist spots. It’s suitable for families with children (with some caution about terrain), couples seeking scenic serenity, and anyone interested in the intersection of music, history, and botany.

It’s best suited for travelers with comfortable shoes and a relaxed attitude toward walking. If you’re looking for a quick, curated visit with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural insights, this tour offers good value.

The Sum Up: Ischia’s La Mortella Gardens—Worth It?

For those who love discovering beautiful gardens with a story, this tour offers a rich blend of natural beauty and historical charm. The stunning plant collections and scenic pathways make it a worthwhile stop, especially if you appreciate peaceful environments and cultural sites. The included transportation and optional lunch add convenience and value, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.

While some terrain could pose challenges, most visitors find the experience manageable and rewarding. It’s especially suited for those keen on botanical diversity and quiet reflection amidst lush scenery. If you’re visiting Ischia and want to see a place where nature and history come together in harmony, La Mortella Gardens is a memorable choice.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your accommodation or a nearby meeting point are included in the tour price.

How long is the garden visit?
You’ll spend approximately 3 hours exploring La Mortella Gardens, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed.

Are guides available during the garden tour?
Guides are not provided during the garden visit itself, but the overall experience is designed for self-guided exploration with the benefit of prior knowledge from the tour operator.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
Yes, ramps are available for pushchairs and wheelchairs, but some steep slopes and stairs are present. The lift to the hill garden may not be operational at all times, which could impact those with mobility issues.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes entrance to La Mortella Gardens, transportation, and an optional lunch if selected. Drinks are not included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The gardens offer stunning views, unusual plants, and atmospheric settings perfect for photography.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential as you’ll be walking on uneven terrain. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water for sunny days.

Are there any restrictions on touching the plants?
Yes, touching the plants is not allowed to preserve the delicate environment of the garden.

Embark on this journey into a peaceful botanical world filled with stories of music, art, and nature. La Mortella Gardens on Ischia awaits to enchant your senses and deepen your appreciation for Italy’s verdant treasures.

You can check availability for your dates here: