It’s hard not to be seduced by the laid-back elegance of Ischia, a small volcanic island lying off the coast of Naples. The air is perfumed with the scent of the sea, pine forests and fragrant gardens. The thermal hot bubbling springs are a natural phenomena widely known for their therapeutic benefits, and the island’s sandy beaches and natural coves make Ischia the perfect destination to revitalise the mind, body and soul.
It’s said those who visit the island once, carry it in their hearts forever. Those who stay at Villa Torre dell’Aquila, never want to leave. Quite simply the finest villas on the island. This five star private residence, combines serenity with pure indulgence.
Perched high above San Francesco Bay with panoramic views to the town of Forio di Ischia and out to sea, sits Villa Torre dell’Aquila, The Eagle’s Tower. Nestled within a paradisiacal landscape, the four bedroomed villa is located off the beaten track, yet within easy reach of Ischia’s bustling and vibrant capital.
Even arriving to Villa Torre dell’Aquila is an unforgettable experience. Situated just 30 kilometres off the coast of Naples, you’ll arrive to the island by ferry or private boat. Next a short car journey past the island’s colourful towns and villages, and stunning scenery. The road up to Villa Torre dell’Aquila passes the homes of many celebrities, including the famous residence of the composer William Walton. The estate’s garden, Giardini della Mortella, was inspired by a lifetime’s love story and is one of the most beautiful Mediterranean-style gardens you’ll ever set eyes upon.
Villa Torre dell’Aquila, with its unique circular design set over three floors, was remodelled by Italian architects, Purini and Mariani, past collaborators of the great film director Rossellini. Resembling an ancient watchtower guarding the island of Ischia from marauders and pirates, the secluded location and ample grounds invoke the sensation of an exclusive retreat made just for you. The interior space has been cleverly designed to offer comfort and privacy for families and groups of up to 10 guests.
Sculptured out of local volcanic stone, the design of Villa Torre dell’Aquila is a celebration of Italian architecture and modern aesthetics. The property has been featured on the cover of the prestigious interiors magazine Ville e Casali; thoughtfully furnished in keeping with the energetic character of Ischia. Decorative antiques combine with works from local artists, giving the interior a wonderfully charismatic feel.
The grounds of Villa Torre dell’Aquila are as exquisite as the villa itself. With impressive stepped terraces and landscaped gardens facing across the bay and out to the crystalline seascape. The main terrace offers the perfect setting for al fresco dining, or an aperitif at sunset. Decorated with exquisite furnishings and with sensational views, it’s also an ideal space for weddings and group celebrations.
The sublime pool beckons you in for a dip, with comfortable sunbeds on hand to dry off in the idyllic Italian sun. If it’s shade you seek from the midday heat, there is a magical wooded area within the grounds, where you can laze away a shady afternoon with a good book or glass of local D’ Ambra wine, produced here on Ischia.
One of our favourite spots within the grounds has to be our plentiful organic orchard. Filled with heavenly fruits and vegetables, it’s there to be enjoyed by all our guests; pick your own breakfast, lunch and dinner, cultivated by us with love.
There is also a private access wooden walkway down to the sea built into the natural rock landscape. (use caution while on the walkway).
The villa interior has been created to maximise light and space. Glorious sunshine gleams through panoramic windows and skylights that have been modelled into the volcanic stone. Nearly all of the villa’s rooms open out to wonderful terraces that together offer 360 degree views.
The voluminous and bright living room on the ground floor is indulgently comfortable. A magnificent fireplace takes centre stage, with luxuriously comfortable oversized sofas and armchairs placed for easy conversation. A rustic dining table comfortably seats eight.
On the same floor, you’ll find the sensationally designed, fully-equipped kitchen with its incredible skylight windows. The kitchen is infused with natural light during the day, and opens up like an observatory to Ischia’s star filled sky at nighttime.
Local chef Susy will be on hand to cook you up a traditional Neapolitan meal, using a rich variety of homegrown produce from our private organic orchard. A wood fired oven can also be found to the rear of the villa, where delicious pizzas can be made to order by the expert hands of a local pizzaiolo. We can proudly say that Italian food will never taste quite as good after you’re gastronomic adventure at Villa Torre dell’Aquila.
The top floor plays hosts to a sumptuous master bedroom. The king size bed faces floor-to-ceiling windows with views to the twinkling lights of San Francesco bay. This bedroom is what sweet dreams and honeymoons are made of. A sumptuous bathroom with jacuzzi and spacious fitted wardrobes complete the luxury bedroom accommodation, and a mezzanine level reveals a studio space for chilling out in solitude.
The villa’s lower level houses three very comfortable double bedrooms with air conditioning, each with a sea view. The main double bedroom features both a double bed and double sofa bed, an ensuite bathroom with shower and direct access to a wonderful terrace with exceptionally comfortable sun beds. The second double bedroom also boasts direct access to the terrace and shares a bathroom with the third smaller bedroom with a French bed.
If you seek privacy and elegant comfort, Villa Torre dell’Aquila is the perfect setting for your five star holiday in one of Italy’s most exclusive locations.