Capo La Gala Hotel & Spa

Originally built in 1950s, then having been bought and undergone renovations in 2006, Capo La Gala Hotel & Spa is a luxury property that draws guests with its peaceful atmosphere, sophisticated look, and beautiful views. Set along the Gulf of Naples in a quiet area, the hotel is best suited to romancing couples looking to get away from the tourist crowds found in nearby Sorrento and Naples. The nautical-themed design is stunning, with lots of blue and white decor, striped fabrics, and sea-inspired decor such as ocean artwork, coral figurines, and model sailboats. The region's famous ceramic pottery and dishware is placed throughout, adding a lovely local touch. The pool, rooms, and even fitness center all take advantage of the setting with sea views, and the predominant sounds here are of crashing waves and relaxing music.

Be aware, however, that weddings can take place here and cause disturbances to other guests. Additionally, like most hotels in the region, the hotel is closed from roughly October to April. It's worth comparing rates with the Grand Hotel Angiolieri, a historic luxury property with a similar list of facilities, except for a spa.

Capo La Gala Hotel & Spa has a beautiful location along the Gulf of Naples, about a 14-minute drive from the town of Vico Equense. It's set between Sorrento and Naples, a 45-minute drive from each. There's little in the immediate area, so travelers should expect to rely on the hotel's free shuttle service to the bus stop in Vico Equense, or expensive taxis. Free parking is available for those that rent cars. Vico Equense has a number of restaurants, cafes, and shops, but it's still quite small, so travelers looking for ample sightseeing and attractions will want to head to Sorrento or Naples. Train travel is popular for the region, and there's a station in town.

Pompeii can be reached in roughly 20 minutes by car. Rome is a three-hour drive away.

The 23 rooms here differ a bit in terms of design, though travelers can expect a nautical theme reflected in white or blue tile floors, walls, and fabrics. Striped or coral-motif patterns are cute, and some rooms add charming details such as model sailboats, sea life artwork, or potted flowers. Unfortunately, although all rooms have sea views, entry-level units lack balconies and are on the whole, disappointing for the price. They're a bit compact, minimally decorated, and only have rainfall showers in the bathrooms. On the plus side, beautiful blue and white tiles line the bathrooms, and all units have desks, minibars, tea- and coffee-making facilities, flat-screen TVs, and wardrobes with electronic safes. Bathrooms add bidets, free quality toiletries, hairdryers, bathrobes, and slippers.

Upgraded units have furnished balconies, shower/tub combos, and a bit more space. The Paradise Room and Infinity Room both have a stone hot tub on their terrace.

All the expected features of a luxury property are found here, with the standout being the Michelin-starred restaurant Maxi. It serves inventive Mediterranean fare in an inviting space with sea views. More casual meals can be had at the poolside Taverna Nerea, which has striped chairs, an adjacent bar, and views over the water. Another cozy bar is located inside, and a free welcome drink is offered to guests here. All rates include a tasty breakfast buffet with some hot items such as eggs and bacon, plus typical continental fare like pastries, cold meats and cheeses, and fruit. Room service is available.

The rectangular pool is a decent size and surrounded by umbrella-shaded loungers. A hot tub is also located by here. Views of the Gulf of Naples are lovely, and a short jetty leads out into the ocean, with a staircase for easy access into the water. For further relaxation, the serene spa is inviting, with ample treatments on offer, a hydrotherapy pool, and sauna and steam rooms. An open-air gym with cardio and strength-training equipment is on a wooden deck overlooking the water. 

Wi-Fi and parking are both free. Weddings and events can be held on-site. A private boat can be rented from the hotel.