On the Ischia island one of the biggest and widest succulent plant collections in Europe.
Recognized by the Tourism Commission of the European Parliament and Council of the European Observatory “for being the most distinguished activity in southern Italy, in the area of tourism for environmental and social enhancement”.
A fascinating journey through the greenery to discover surprising scenery and rare, precious botanical specimens. A rich collection of cacti and succulents cultivated outdoors, constantly enriched with new species from all over the world, the result of the naturalistic passion of Giuseppe D'Ambra, started in the ‘60s of the last century. Amongst these botanical rarities, peacocks and rabbits can be found. Exhibitions of local artists and craftsman to be admired in the gardens, an intertwining of art and nature.
A special world for enthusiasts and experts, perfect for families and ideal for those looking for a place that can satisfy both intellectual curiosity and the need for relaxation and amusement.
The special atmosphere of the Cactus Lounge Café in the enchanting surroundings of the garden and a wide range of small cacti on sale at the entrance of the Garden, complete this unforgettable experience.
In 2006, Giardini Ravino was born out of the courage to put a dream into reality, in details, that is to give a long-lasting home to cell culture. Giuseppe D’Ambra, a seaman who travelled all over the world and a great aficionado of succulents and cacti, as of palms: everytime he came back from his voyages he brought bags full of seeds and scions of rare plants, one-of-a-kind in Italy and Europe.
The mild climate of the island of Ischia, and specifically of the town of Forio, along with the happy south-western exposure of Ravino’s ground, were the reason for the extensive growth of the plants and allowed their reproduction easily and unique in sort and amount.
That’s how the D’Ambras decided to show to the public this treasure that involved so much dedication, devotedness, sacrifice and patience. Led by their father, Christoph and Luca enabled by inherited passion, with which they were born and grew-up, created this botanical treasure; an initiative that might appear a bit unusual, but by having a closer look, one sees its uniqueness and deserved success.
An enthusiastic challenge, that also has to consider environment-friendly considerations as economical ones; today Ischia is one of the most successful touristic destinations in Italy, with a potential that easily compares with other European areas, as well as with worldwide famous destinations.
When you visit our Gardens
keep your entrance ticket
not only as a souvenir of a hopefully pleasant visit
but also because, in case you would like to come back to us
to taste our famous
Cactus Cocktail
you could enjoy free entrance to our Gardens
and just pay your drink!
S.S. 270 Citara - 80075 Forio d'Ischia (NA) I ITALY - Tel./Fax +39 081 997783 - Email : info@ravino.it