Giardini La Mortella
Forio (NA)
KnownNature
The story
Above Forio, the gardens that Susana Walton cultivated for her composer husband: tree ferns, water lilies and streams in an amphitheatre of volcanic rock facing the Ischia sea.
Access
€ 12, Tue/Thu/Sat/Sun, Apr-Nov, no online
The story
The Giardini La Mortella, at Forio, are one of the most beautiful gardens in Italy: they were created by Susana Walton, wife of the English composer William Walton, who from 1949 made Ischia their home. The landscape architect Russell Page designed the lower part, 'La Valle'; Lady Walton curated the upper garden. Today the Walton Foundation opens them to the public and holds concerts there.
What to see
A subtropical and Mediterranean garden with over three thousand species from all over the world — tree ferns, proteas, agaves, palms, the jacaranda and the Canary Island dragon tree — among fountains, greenhouses and glimpses of the sea. In season, concerts of classical music in memory of the composer. An enchanted and beautifully tended corner.
How to get there
- Hydrofoil
- Ferry
Hours and prices
Free entry.
Tips
The garden has its own entrance and hours, with seasonal opening: check days, hours and the concert calendar on the official site of the Walton Foundation. You are at Forio; reckon on a couple of hours to enjoy it calmly. Uphill routes: comfortable shoes.
Frequently asked questions
What are the Giardini La Mortella?
A great subtropical and Mediterranean garden at Forio d'Ischia, created by Susana Walton, wife of the composer William Walton; today run by the Walton Foundation, with concerts of classical music.
What can you see at La Mortella?
Over three thousand plant species from all over the world — tree ferns, proteas, agaves, jacaranda — among fountains and glimpses of the sea.
How do you visit La Mortella?
With its own entrance and hours and seasonal opening: it is best to check days, hours and concerts on the official site of the Walton Foundation.
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