Ischia, Gulf of Naples, Italy
San Montano Resort & Spa
Waterside Wonder
What it is
A verdant seven acre retreat on the Gulf of Naples with a thermal pool park, manicured beach, four locavore bars and restaurants, and a spa devoted to ancient healing arts.
What it isn't
Standard issue. Every experience here is bucket list worthy, from massages right in the citrus grove to harp concerts overlooking the water at sunset.
What we think
The airy yet traditionalist guest rooms here put the focus on what matters: the span of turquoise sea and lush gardens just off your balcony. You’ll have individually controlled air conditioning, a minibar, and zippy free wifi in whichever room you book, but we find it’s worth splurging on a Superior Front Sea View room to get a show-stopping panorama over the Gulf of Naples. Even more entrancing? The Infinity Pool Suite, a two-floor hideaway with two bathrooms, a fully separate living room, and its own private swimming pool that looks as if it blends right into the Bay of San Montano. Bliss.
You're here because
You couldn’t decide between visiting Greece and Italy; this hilltop jaw dropper feels like a combination of the two. And the spa is exquisite, with treatments like red grape detox wraps and candle massages.
The Moment
From your striped waterfront armchair at Franco’s Fine Restaurant, everything tastes impossibly fresh. Tonight’s indulgence: grilled scampi with fennel lemon salad and linguini with sea urchins.
Restaurants & Bars
La Veranda Restaurant - Mediterranean flavors, reinterpreted traditional dishes and a particular focus on fresh ingredients.
Sunset Bar - coffees, cocktails and apertifs with a perfect view of the sunset
Acropolis Bar - light lunches and Mediterranean favorites
Franco's Fine Restaurant - finely prepared traditional recipes with a focus on simple, modern presentation
O' Pignattello - modern takes on fresh, local classics
Location
The island of Ischia, on the same peninsula as the beloved botanical garden Giardini La Mortella. The island is a 50 minute boat ride from the mainland ports of Molo Beverello or Calata Porta di Massa.