William Walton's subtropical garden on Ischia
On the hillside of Forio, on the west coast of Ischia, the Giardini La Mortella are one of the most beautiful gardens in Italy. They were created from 1956 by Susana Walton, the Argentine wife of the English composer Sir William Walton, who had chosen the island as their home, in a former rocky quarry. The landscape designer Russell Page drew up the first plan.
The garden is divided into two parts: the Valley, shaded and humid, with tree ferns, palms, giant water lilies such as the Amazonian Victoria, and fountains; and the Hill, sunny and Mediterranean, with terraces, a Thai pavilion, a Greek theatre overlooking the sea and the rock where the composer's ashes are kept. Over three thousand rare and exotic plant species grow here. The Walton Foundation organises concerts of classical music and courses for young musicians in the recital hall.
Tip: the gardens are open from spring to autumn; the concerts at weekends are a lovely experience. Combine the visit with the beach of Citara and the Poseidon thermal gardens nearby.
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