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Ischia Island, just off the coast of Naples, Italy, is a quiet paradise compared to its counterpart, Capri; and its shining star of hotel properties is the magnificent San Montano Resort and Spa. The resort, perched above the charming village of Lacco Ameno, is family-owned and has been in operation for a long time. It occupies the most incredible location overlooking hills of lemon trees that jut right up against the crystalline blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
I came here to get away for a few days and found myself completely enthralled with not only the island of Ischia and its effortless "cool factor", but with a resort where you can literally bop between its 8 thermal pools, sun loungers, spa and a private beach - as if you were in your own backyard.
Arriving the hotel is very easy and similar to arriving to Capri - by ferry, or private chartered boat. The only difference is that you will run into more Italians here than anyone else and the place doesn't feel nearly as crowded as nearby islands. Walking into the lobby, through a gorgeous garden of lavender and lemon trees, you notice the beautiful Mediterranean-modern decor - deep blues, glass, turquoise and white that work well together in a concept that instantly makes you feel calm.
I was greeted with a warm welcome, a glass of champagne and smiling members of the reception team who were eager to invite me into their little paradise. I was escorted to my room, which was separate from the main building and in its own private area outside of the main building. San Montano Resort and Spa offers many types of room categories, many of which feel like your own private residence. Upon first entrance, it was clear that guests tend to stay a long time and really sink into the vibe of this place and all it has to offer.
My room was a suite which was made up of a living room, a large bathroom, bedroom and actual grassy yard with a private terrace and pool. The entire quarters had views over the hills and sea, feeling like a true haven tucked into a resort with limitless amenities.
Other room types on property offer private infinity pools, duplex layouts, villas and more with ample space for relaxing and enjoying your time in Ischia. Throughout my four night stay, I fell more and more in-love with my spot at San Montano Resort and Spa, and truly didn't want to leave it.
The resort is really centered around the idea of health and wellness. Of course people come for the sun and a bronzed glow, but the property has invested a great deal into its Ocean Blue Spa. The spa is really rooted in Ischia's thermal waters and mud that have been used and coveted since Roman times. At the spa, you can indulge in thermal water pools which are incredible for sore muscles, skin conditions and other ailments. You can have a fabulous massage with citrus oil from the island under a grove of lemon trees. You can work with one of their clinicians to design and adhere to a particular diet when on-property in order to clear up skin problems or even breathing issues.
San Montano is truly an ideal spot to invest in your health and focus on self care. I was able to dabble in the thermal pools during my stay and enjoy a deep tissue massage in the spa - truly one of the best I've had.
True foodies will love San Montano Resort and Spa. You are in Italy, after all. But, this is where you can experience everything that is unique to Ischia - including citrus, seafood and recipes made with plants grown right here on-site.
Overlooking the Gulf of Naples, Franco's is the ideal marriage between seafood and farm-fresh ingredients fused together in true Mediterranean-Italian spirit. La Veranda leans more traditional Italian but with a twist from the chef - and there's nothing on the menu that you won't absolutely love, including the homemade pastas.
All the food at the resort can be modified for your diet and special requests are welcomed. But, honestly, when you're in Italy with this caliber of cooking, there won't be much you want to change. For something casual, head to Acropoli Pizza Bar, pizza in true Napoli tradition.
My days were spent in Ischia exploring both on land and at sea. After a relaxing breakfast at the hotel, I usually selected a new village or area to take-in. All of the towns here are small and cute, offering local shops selling products like homemade soap or skincare infused with Ischia's thermal water. But, the real highlight is floating around on a boat atop the azure waters. The water is incredibly clear and you can see straight to the bottom at some points. San Montano is happy to help you organize a boat for the day with picnic, or a specific tour. I recommend spending as much time as possible seeing the remote parts of the island from the sea's vantage point. This will help you understand Ischia in a different way. I personally love the service with Ascanio Charter Boat in Lacco Ameno.
Four days flew by in a flash and, with each passing day, I grew more and more fond of this place. Ischia is special and San Montano is a jewel in its crown. Because the resort is so famous and has been around a while, you feel as if you are stepping into Italian heritage, sitting amongst the walls that houses years and years of family memories, honeymoons, vacations and other special times. It's a nice, comfortable feeling and I know anyone who visits will feel the same. Being here is like being with an old friend.
