Hotel Sardi

Much like the quiet village in which it's located, this small hotel is an intimate choice for those who want to be close to the sea. From the outside to the interiors, things here are bright and cheerful. Flowering bushes line the walkways and potted plants mark the entrance to the coral-colored hotel, while inside, rustic details like wood-beam ceilings and terra cotta tile floors give everything a homey, Mediterranean look. The highlights here are the hotel's terraces, which offer partial glimpses over Pomonte's tiled rooftops out to the sea. All in all, this is a simple, laid-back hotel that makes a fine escape right next to to the Mediterranean -- in other words, don't come here expecting a boozy, social atmosphere. Most visitors here are couples, as the setting has an undeniable romance to it, though a few families also pass through.

The hotel is perched on a hillside across the street from the beach within the town limits of Pomonte, a tiny hamlet on the western coast of Elba. The strip of sparkling clear turquoise directly facing the hotel is wedged between a set of flat swimming rocks and a pebble beach. Situated in the least developed area on the island, Pomonte has just a handful of restaurants and hotels. The island itself is known for its beaches, and some of it's most popular sandy spots are within reasonable drives from here. Spiaggia di Cavoli will take about 15 minutes to reach by car, while Spiaggia di Lacona is a 35-minute drive from the hotel. Those seeking a modicum of nightlife can drive to Portoferraio, 45 minutes away. Ferries back to the mainland towns of Capoliveri and Porto Azzurro depart from Portoferraio as well.

The rooms here are simple but tidy, and while some have newer a more modern look, others are dated. In the older rooms, the look is pretty typical for an Italian budget hotel, though everything is at least spotless and well-kept. Expect to see blue and green bedspreads, walls painted in similar matching shades, landscape photography as wall art, and chunky terrazzo or bright tile flooring. They are compact, but the built in mid-tone wood furniture does add a bit of space. Modern rooms are a decent step up, and provide an updated take on a classic mid-century look. Decor in these rooms includes recessed LED lighting, wood-veneer furniture in on-trend shades, and sharper bed linens (unfortunately, those terrazzo floors weren't given an overhaul). Some rooms have small balconies outside of French doors, though sea views are at least partially obstructed in most cases. There are a couple of Family Rooms with with additional beds. All rooms have air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and hairdryers. Bathrooms are snug affairs, with plastic walk-in showers, bidets, and wall-mounted sinks with no counter space. Towels and basic toiletries are provided.

The bar and restaurant feature a particularly lovely dining area, enclosed by windows on three sides that open up to an outdoor terrace nested behind bushes. There's even a partial glimpse of the sea. Food gets solid marks, and everything is home-cooked for lunch and dinner. Breakfast is included with standard room rates, and the buffet includes fairly standard continental options like yogurt, breads, and meats. Full- and half-board meal options are available and mealtimes are efficient, but scheduled. Just across the street is a pebble beach that leads to the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean. While there isn't much else in the way of on-site entertainment, the hotel can arrange for free bike rentals. There is free Wi-Fi throughout the property, and on-site parking is also available. Pets are welcome without any fees, which is a rarity in hotels anywhere. Guests who have already checked out have access to a shower and bathroom to freshen up before departing. Keep in mind that there is no elevator here and there are a number of stairs at the hotel.