The Island of Ischia by local bus 21.05

Another marvellous day lay ahead, with a local bus trip around this fabulous island of Ischia. I have put a copy of the route to our first destination, St Angelo, because it was impossible to take photos of the narrow, winding street which heads from Ischia up into the hills, passing through tiny mountain villages and forested mountain slopes, with fantastic views down to the coast so far below. We started off with very few people on board, but the bus quickly filled up - tourists and locals. It reminded me of the crowded buses on Amalfi coast.
First stop was the little tourist town of St Angelo, popular for its thermal pools and spectacular scenery.
It reminded me a little of a Cornish fishing village, accessible only on foot or by taxi. 
It would have been a shame to have missed the magnificent views from the road as we descended to the port.
This restaurant looked so inviting!
The town is a typical tourist trap, but also had some very colourful stores selling every shape and size of pottery imaginable.
The port, with its Church of Sant' Angelo was very picturesque, but with a ferociously  chilly wind!
Another very colourful place, but we didn't linger long.
Our second stop was on the west coast, ischia's second biggest town, Forio.  Once again the colours are vibrant everywhere and the lemons massive!!
They love their animal beauty parlours here.
As we looked out over the port, I was happy not to be at sea today. Quite a swell compared to other days. Stunning colours, however.
The highlight of the day was most certainly our lunch, in a little restaurant close to the port. We started with stuffed courgette flowers filled with a delicious mix of fish and milk and herbs , deep fried. It was sensational.
Our main course was equally tasty and interesting, the fish of the day, with grilled vegetables. And of course, a glass of local wine. 
Service, food, little extras, location, made this undoubtedly the best meal of our trip.
This was quite an interesting bench with a pair of high - heeled shoes beside it.  There must have been a story behind the making of them.
Home again in Ischia, I went for a late afternoon walk to the castle. It was great to appreciate it without crowds and with perfect skies.
The streets are lined with oleander trees. Beautiful to look at, but horribly poisonous.
Sadly, our time on this lovely island has nearly come to an end. How brilliant to have a final sunset to round off yet another wonderful day. 


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