Aquapetra Resort & Spa

Aquapetra was an abandoned 19th-century village before the architect who now runs the resort updated it, and it now includes 30 bungalow-style rooms joined by cobbled walkways. The stone buildings are set amid olive groves, cypress trees, and untouched countryside, making for a picturesque rustic Italian setting. There are a few modern updates that are artfully contrasted against the historic look, such as the floor-to-ceiling glass wall of the spa and the quirky outdoor chair in the shape of a face.

The hotel is definitely geared toward couples, with a serene atmosphere and kids-free spa policy. The front lobby has comfortable leather couches, a fireplace, tile floors, and modern touches such as poster-size vintage photographs. The low-key property is designed for guests who want to kick back and relax, and guests have commented that a car is recommended for exploring the surrounding countryside for stays beyond a couple of days.

Aquapetra Resort & Spa is one-and-a-half miles from the town of Telese, which itself is accessible by bus from the Naples train station. Whether renting a car or taking a local taxi from the town center, guests should arrive with printed directions, rather than relying on GPS, as the hotel can be a bit difficult to find.

All guest rooms continue the resort's theme of updated 19th-century charm, and some have details such as whitewashed exposed beams. Rooms have terracotta tile or wooden floors, and though decor varies, most blend contemporary and antique-style furnishings. Fabric button headboards are present in many rooms. Smaller rooms have a walk-in showers with rainfall showerheads; some larger suites have private whirlpools. Some guests have commented one pillow per person feels sparse and that the free Wi-Fi may not work in all rooms. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, Malin + Goetz toiletries, and bathrobes.

A fully restored barn houses the indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, and steam room; walls fashioned from area stone are combined with mosaic tile and floor-to-ceiling windows. The spa is open to guests from outside the hotel and can get crowded as a result. Facility access (free for guests) is by reservation of two-hour blocks, and a full range of spa services -- comparable to those found at the nearby, larger Terme di Telese -- are available. The seasonal (unheated) outdoor pool is set next to an olive grove. There is a small gym with a few exercise machines.

The excellent restaurant, La Locanda del Borgo, is popular with locals and traveling gastronomes alike. Adjacent to the restaurant, which straddles a combination indoor-outdoor patio, is a modern bar with jewel-colored, contemporary slipper chairs.