Hotel & Resort Le Axidie

Built in 1957, Hotel & Resort Le Axidie draws primarily couples with its quiet atmosphere, sea-view rooms, and vistas of Mount Vesuvius. However, a well-equipped kids' club operates in the summer for families, plus multiple pools and a beach are appropriate for all ages. Grounds are spread out, with citrus trees, a vineyard (red and white wines made from these grapes are sold here), and stone steps dividing the facilities. Most features face the sea, from the third-floor breakfast room (which operates as the restaurant in low season), to the outdoor pizza eatery. Though the property has undergone renovations since its opening, the design varies from room to room, and many have visible wear and ants.  

While there's plenty to keep guests occupied on-site, free shuttles to the town center where the train station is located are convenient. Be aware that the hotel sells season passes for their beach club (changing rooms are offered), which may cause the property to feel crowded. Also note that like most hotels in this region, Le Axidie is closed for winter. Although more modern hotels are available, low rates make this hotel a good value.

Hotel & Resort Le Axidie has a peaceful location away from the hubbub of area attractions. It's a 10-minute drive from the center of Vico Equense, a charming town with some shops and eateries, as well as a train station for connections to Sorrento, Naples, and the Amalfi Coast. In the immediate area are a marina and a handful of restaurants. Free shuttle service is provided to the town center during select hours, otherwise requiring a steep 20-minute uphill walk. For travelers with cars, free parking is offered on-site. Sorrento is a 30-minute drive south, while Naples is a about an hour's drive north. 

There are 60 standard hotel rooms and 18 apartments here, which range from older to more contemporary styles. Though multiple styles are present, some older-looking units have gray-blue wooden furniture, teal tile floors, and windows with short, thin curtains that don't block out light. On the other side of the spectrum are units with contemporary white wood furniture, attractive patterned tile floors, and decorative accents. Also on the downside, noise issues due to thin walls, and the presence of ants have been reported.

Nevertheless, many rooms have lovely furnished patios or balconies -- some with sea views. All rooms come with desks, kettles with tea, minibars, flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, and wardrobes with safes. Apartments add well-equipped kitchens, dining tables, and living spaces. 

Certainly the highlight of the resort is its pebbly beach with views of Mount Vesuvius and free-to-use sunbeds and umbrellas. In the summer, the hotel sells season passes to its beach club, providing changing rooms. For additional water-based activities, there are multiple pools on-site, including an ocean-view saltwater pool, hot and cold plunge pools, and a hot tub. Another private hot tub is available. The wellness center also consists of a spa for massages, a sauna, and an outdoor treadmill.  

An outdoor kids' club operates in the high season, where children can utilize a playground, basketball court, and ping-pong table. Tennis courts are also on-site. Also in this area is the vineyard, which produces grapes for red and white wine sold at the restaurants and bars. Indoors, a business center and TV room are near the lobby. Wi-Fi is free and accessible across the hotel.

All rates include a breakfast buffet of eggs, bacon, bread, pastries, fruit, cereal, cold meats and cheeses, and yogurt. Juice and coffee are also offered. This is served in a third-floor space with pretty water views, which also acts as the restaurant in low season. In summer months, a beachside Mediterranean eatery is popular, as are a pizza and pasta snack bar nearby. Bars are located both by here and the lobby. Food receives mostly positive reviews.