Maronti Beach
The center of town is located inland, but the town and area surrounding Barano are known primarily for its large Maronti beach, which stretches over three kilometers of sand and is home to a number of beach clubs and free public beaches. You can enjoy water sports, dine in a number of cafès and restaurants, or take in the thermal springs just behind the beach; Ischia is famous for its hot springs and there are a number of thermal parks on the island.
The Pine Grove at Fiaiano
One of the largest wooded parks on Ischia is located at Barano: the Pineta di Fiaiano, or Fiaiano Pine Grove, which covers eight hectares of Mediterranean woodland and overlooks a view stretching from the Castello Aragonese to Procida, Vivara, and the Flegrea Coastline. The Indiana Park is located inside this wooded area, a treetop adventure park with climbing ropes and panes, rope bridges, and itineraries for children and adults.
Take bus 6 from Ischia Porto.
The Fountain of Nymphs at Nitrodi
The Nitrodi spring that runs from Olmitiello to the Maronti beach has been known for its therapeutic benefits since the third century BC, as shown by the number of votive inscriptions depicting Apollo and nymphs found here and now displayed in Naples' National Archaeological Museum.
There are thermal showers and basins where the waters run in their natural state, with no treatments or additives. Yoga, meditation, and stretching classes are held here, and you can also book massages, private baths, or other treatments in the adjacent spa.
If you are interested in art and history, pop in to visit the Chiesa di San Giorgio in the Testaccio district and the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, built in the 13th century and home of a belltower and statue of the "Addolorata". Located in the hamlet of Buonopane, this church is especially known on the island because each year the "'ndrezzata" is performed in the sacristy, a traditional island dance that dates back centuries.
Three things to do in Barano
- Spend a day at Maronti beach
- Have lunch along the coast at Sgarrupata
- Relax in the thermal baths of Nitrodi.