I La Mortella Gardens They represent one of the most evocative botanical sites in Italy and an unmissable experience during a trip to Ischia. Located in Forio, in the hilly area of Zaro, these gardens are the brainchild of English composer Sir William Walton and his wife Susana Walton, who, starting in 1956, transformed an arid lava field into a true natural paradise.
Today i La Mortella Gardens in Ischia They are an internationally renowned botanical garden, with over 3000 species of rare and tropical plants, panoramic terraces, exotic greenhouses, and greenery-filled paths. Their distinctive feature is the balance between Mediterranean landscape and subtropical flora, made possible by the unique composition of the volcanic soil and the island's microclimate.
The history of La Mortella Gardens: from volcanic quarry to botanical garden of excellence
The history of the La Mortella Gardens in Forio d'Ischia It began after World War II, when William Walton moved to the island with his wife Susana. In 1949, they purchased a rocky area at the foot of Mount Zaro, a rugged terrain composed of lava rock and wild vegetation.
The name “La Mortella” derives from the dialect term “mortella”, which indicates myrtle (Myrtus communis), a typical plant of the Mediterranean scrub that grew abundantly in the area.
The real project took shape in 1956, when renowned landscape architect Russell Page was commissioned to design the garden's layout while respecting the natural morphology of the land. However, it was Susana Walton who dedicated much of her life to creating and expanding the garden, transforming it into a unique botanical masterpiece.
Over the decades, the La Mortella Gardens of Ischia They have been enriched with thousands of species from all over the world: tropical plants, palms, giant ferns, orchids and aquatic species such as water lilies and lotus flowers.
Today the garden is managed by the William Walton Foundation and is not only a naturalistic attraction, but also a cultural and musical center that hosts concerts and artistic activities, keeping alive the connection with the composer.
What to see at the La Mortella Gardens: exotic landscapes, terraces, and music
Visit the La Mortella Gardens in Ischia It means immersing yourself in a botanical path structured on multiple levels, mainly divided into the “Lower Garden (Valley)” and the “Upper Garden (Hill)”.
The lower garden is the most humid and lush area, characterized by a tropical microclimate. Here, you'll find greenhouses with rare orchids, giant ferns, aquatic plants, and ornamental ponds filled with water lilies and lotus flowers. The vegetation is dense and scenic, with water features and paths immersed in greenery.
The upper garden, however, offers a completely different landscape: airier and sunnier, with a panoramic view of the Gulf of Forio. Palm trees, subtropical and Mediterranean plants grow here, along with architectural elements and spaces dedicated to contemplating the landscape.
One of the most iconic points of the La Mortella Gardens of Forio It's the Greek Theater, used during the summer for classical music concerts and orchestral performances. This feature strengthens the connection between nature and music, making the visit a cultural as well as naturalistic experience.
Helpful information for your visit: the garden is generally open from April to November, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, from 9:00 am to 19:00 pm, with last admission at 18:00 pm. A visit of at least two hours is recommended to fully appreciate the garden's diverse layout and levels.
Tickets cost an average of around 15 euros for a full price, with discounts for young people, students, those over 70, and island residents.
Why visit La Mortella Gardens: a unique experience in Ischia
I La Mortella Gardens in Ischia They are not just a botanical park, but a true journey through nature, art, and culture. Their uniqueness lies in their ability to combine biodiversity, landscape design, and music in an extraordinary natural setting.
They are considered among the most beautiful gardens in Italy and are a must-see for anyone visiting Forio and the island of Ischia, especially for those seeking an alternative to seaside tourism.
The combination of exotic plants, scenic paths, and an artistic atmosphere makes La Mortella Gardens a place capable of surprising in every season, offering an ever-changing and deeply immersive experience.
I visited the Giardini la Mortella last year and it seems like an interesting place, but not too exaggerated. The route is beautiful but not always easy to navigate. There are many green spaces, but sometimes they are lacking in signage and maintenance seems inconsistent. The Greek Theatre is nice.