Garden & Villas Resort

A relaxing atmosphere flows throughout the Mediterranean-style property dotted with low-rise white buildings. The small lobby has patterned tile floors and rustic wood beams across the ceiling, giving it a homey, welcoming vibe. The reception area is a bit tiny for relaxation, and there are plenty of gorgeous spots throughout the hotel's two-acre, landscaped property for guests to unwind in comfort. There are lily ponds and herbs including lavender, rosemary, and sage throughout, plus fruit and palm trees and stone-lined walkways. The Serra Reading Room is also a highlight, situated under a thatched roof with tan wicker seating set about aqua ceramic tiles. Facing the attractive outdoor pool is Il Corbezzolo, the refined on-site restaurant and bar, with stone arched windows. There is a romantic vibe at night, and an outdoor seating area. La Grotta Bar is situated in an ancient cellar with cave-like stone walls. Colorful tufted chairs and a beautiful fireplace with a reclaimed wood mantle also adorn the space, while the other side of the bar has a terrace with garden views. An organic vegetable garden supplies the on-site cuisine, and there are terraces throughout that have excellent sea views, making this a romantic choice for couples, though some families also pass through.

The Garden & Villas Resort is situated near the northwest coast of the small Ischia Island; a ferry ride from the mainland can take up to an hour and 40 minutes. Naples is the closest major city on the mainland and has the closest international airport, and the island does not have its own airport. Ischia is known for its hot springs and thermal spa treatments, and the Negombo Thermal Park is under 15 minutes away on foot, as is the beach at San Montano, and the charming little town of Lacco Ameno, which is lively during the warm months of the year. Giardini La Mortella and San Montano Bay are also within a 15-minute walk, while Citara Beach takes 15 minutes to reach by car. Ischia Ponte, home to the iconic Aragonese Castle, takes about 25 minutes to reach by road, while the island's commercial heart, Ischia Porto, is about 20 minutes away by car. The ferries to Naples depart from a terminal about five minutes east of the hotel by taxi or car. There is parking on-site for guests with cars and the hotel runs a local hourly shuttle.

Rooms are individually decorated, but most freature classically-silhouetted wood furniture, artwork inspired by nature, and vintage armchairs. Rooms like the Classic Room that we visited -- the most budget friendly room here -- has striking aqua ceramic tile floors with warm tan walls and striking palm-print fabrics, plus a mid-20th century armchair and ottoman. Though not huge, the room is spacious, and opens onto a small terrace. Other rooms have marble tiled floors, gorgeous warm neutral tones throughout, extra space and sofas (or separate living areas), and higher level bookings have extra perks, like the outdoor hot tub in the Junior Suite, or sea views from the balcony in Deluxe Rooms. All rooms have flat-screen TVs, desks, air-conditioning, and balconies or terraces with seating. Upgraded rooms also have free minibars. Bathrooms are classic and polished, outfitted with ceramic tiles from Campania or tan marble. Glassed-in showers with rainfall showerheads and heated towel racks are in all bathrooms, though some also have deep soaking tubs. Toiletries are provided.

The large, rectangular outdoor pool is surrounded by a wide brick terrace with white lounge chairs, umbrellas, and greenery. Neapolitan and Ischitana cuisine, including local seafood dishes and Neapolitan pizza, are served at the refined Il Corbezzolo for lunch and dinner. Small plates, cocktails, and after-dinner drinks are offered at La Grotta Bar, while the hotel's free breakfast has a wide selection of fruit, bread, meats, cheeses, made-to-order eggs, pastries, and muffins. All food and drinks receive excellent reviews, and the hotel uses herbs and vegetables from its gardens in its menu. The gardens are ideal for short walks and the Serra Reading Room is a relaxing, laid-back space for guests to unwind. The small spa provides body treatments and traditional massages in addition to a tiny indoor pool. The spa is stylish enough but there are far larger and more impressive spa across Ischia. The fitness center only has a couple cardio machines and limited selection of free weights and there is a sauna as well. A free hourly shuttle to Lacco Ameno is provided, as are transfers from the ferries. Wi-Fi is free throughout and the hotel is pet-friendly (one pet per room). Though this is more of a romantic escape, babysitting services can be arranged for families with small children. The hotel also provides towels for beach use and there is parking on site..