Postcards From Ischia with Marie-Louise Sciò.
The places we return to often tell us as much as the wardrobes we cherish. In this new editorial series, members of the ReSee community share the destinations they know best—the addresses they return to, the rituals they never miss and the places they recommend only to friends.
For our first postcard, we travel to Ischia with Marie-Louise Sciò, CEO and Creative Director of Pellicano Hotels. Raised between Rome and the Mediterranean, Marie-Louise has helped redefine Italian hospitality through an effortless blend of heritage, beauty and contemporary culture. Few people know Ischia quite as intimately.
We asked her why this volcanic island continues to draw her back, and for the places she never misses.
"Ischia is an island that feels both authentic and magical at the same time. It has this unique mix of unspoiled nature, Italian charm, and a relaxed way of life that makes it truly special. I can never get enough of its beautiful lush gardens, beaches, incredible food, and, above all, the warmth of its people. Ischia also has a truly unique connection with wellbeing: the volcanic waters, thermal springs and natural landscape have been bringing people here for centuries to slow down and reconnect with themselves.
I also love how Ischia perfectly balances past and present, keeping the feeling of a more carefree Italian summer from the 1970s, when life was slower and more spontaneous.
Here, I can reconnect with nature, wander through charming villages, enjoy the healing power of the thermal waters, and immerse myself in a culture that feels both genuine and timeless."
Discover Marie-Louise's Guide
Favourite lunch spot
I may be biased, but the pennoni ai quattro pomodori con burrata at La Baia, Mezzatorre’s seaside restaurant, is a must for a true Ischian lunch. I also love Giardino Eden beautifully set on the water, with excellent seafood and unforgettable views.
Photo Credit: Giardino Eden
Favourite place for a drink
Biased again, but a sunset aperitivo at Bar La Torre at Mezzatorre is not to be missed. The view over San Montano Bay and Mount Vesuvius is incredible, especially with one of our signature cocktails.
Photo Credit: @MezzatorreHotel
Favourite place to shop
Ceramiche Mennella is a hidden treasure, with 500 years of history and beautiful handmade ceramics that capture the colours and spirit of Ischia. I also love Mario d’Ischia’s custom-made sandals.
Photo Credit: @MezzatorreHotel
Favourite beach
The Bay of Sorgeto. The natural hot springs flowing into the sea, especially at sunset, create a truly unforgettable experience.
Photo Credit: Italia.it
Favourite town
Forio has a special charm, with its narrow streets, whitewashed houses and the stunning sunset views from the Church of Soccorso. I also love the Torrione and Villa La Colombaia, Luchino Visconti’s former summer residence near Mezzatorre.
From the left: Photo Credit Comune di Forio, @le_perledelgolfo via @MezzatorreHotel
Favourite outdoor activity
A boat trip around the island is one of the best ways to experience Ischia. I also love hiking Mount Epomeo, visiting the vineyards and discovering the island’s incredible landscapes.
Photo Credit: @auhasardspr via @MezzatorreHotel
Favourite cultural spots
The Aragonese Castle is an absolute must, it's one of those places that never fails to take my breath away. And for something a little more unexpected, there's Giardini Ravino, a hidden oasis with an extraordinary collection of cacti and Mediterranean plants that's well worth exploring.
Photo Credit: @eugeniadelprete__ via @MezzatorreHotel
Favourite dinner spot
Lisola, the new collaboration between Nino Di Costanzo and Ivano Veccia, is a wonderful new addition, an unforgettable gastronomic experience and a pizza you will remember.
Photo Credit: Lisola Restaurant
Hidden gem
Giardini La Mortella is a magical garden where nature, art and music come together. Created by Susana Walton, it is one of the most peaceful and inspiring places on the island.
Photo Credit: @MezzatorreHotel
Favourite place for R&R
The island is home to the Nitrodi Springs, one of the oldest known thermal sites in the world, where people have sought the healing properties of its waters since ancient Greek and Roman times. The new Benissimo Club at Mezzatorre carries this heritage forward with a holistic approach to wellbeing. Alongside personalised spa treatments, it encourages you to experience the island through hiking, swimming, nourishing food and the simple pleasure of slowing down.
Photo Credit: @MezzatorreHotel
Favourite season to visit
June is ideal before the island becomes busy, when the sea, beaches and gardens are at their best. October is also special, with the grape harvest, local wines like Biancolella, hiking on Mount Epomeo and enjoying the island’s thermal waters.
Shop Marie-Louise's Select
The Row
Smith Maxi Dress, Resort 2020
Size: 42 FR
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