Hotel Pensione Monti

Inside a traditional yellow villa covered in vines is the small, family-run Hotel Pensione Monti. A homey, welcoming atmosphere greets guests and the lobby has plenty of red-patterned chairs plus pink tile and curtains. Traditional art and doilies also decorate the area, and the hotel's style is a bit dated and could even be called grandma-esque. That said, there is a lot of charm and the sea views are stunning throughout much of the property, including those to be had from the the restaurant, which has colorful plates on the walls and pink curtains. The spa area has floor-to-ceiling windows but is a bit ordinary, with white plastic chairs and tan tile throughout. One of the stand-outs here is the hotel's garden, filled with fruit trees and flowers, and offering excellent sea views plus an outdoor terrace. The vibe throughout is tranquil and guests are mostly couples, though families pass through as well.

The Hotel Pensione Monti is on a quiet, narrow street in the green residential hills above Lacco Ameno. The vibrant town's restaurants and shops are within a 15-minute walk, while Negombo Thermal Park, San Montano Bay, and Castiglione Thermal Park are a 10-minute drive from the hotel. The island's commercial center, Ischia Port, is a 25-minute drive from the hotel, while Citara Beach and the Poseidon Thermal Gardens are a 15-minute drive. Iconic Aragonese Castle, a Medieval structure off the coast of Ischia Ponte, takes 25 minutes to reach by car. A ferry to the mainland takes about an hour and 40 minutes depending on the destination, though most boats go to Naples, which is home to the closest international airport (Ischia Island does not have an airport).

Like many pensiones throughout Italy,  guest room decor here is nothing spectacular. Tan tile floors match light-green floral-patterned comforters and there is simple mid-tone wood furniture, including desks and headboards, throughout. A few framed pieces of classic artwork hang over the beds and flat-screen TVs adorn the walls. Most rooms get good natural light, though striped drapes don't look particularly fresh. Some guests have complained that rooms have thin walls, though, and air conditioning is only provided on request and with a daily fee. Bathrooms are plain as well, with tan-tiled floors, pink-tiled stand-up showers, hairdryers and generic bar soap. There are no safes or mini-fridges in rooms, though Wi-Fi is free throughout the property

The rectangular, blue-tile outdoor thermal pool features lovely sea views and is surrounded by potted flowers and greenery. At the small spa, a thermal indoor pool has jets while the Kneipp pool has lava pebbles on the floor. A steam room is also available, and the gardens and terraces with striking Mediterranean views are especially lovely and relaxing. Authentic Mediterranean cuisine is served at the restaurant to solid reviews, and full board options that include all three meals are available. The free breakfast, also served at the restaurant, has cereal, cakes, and yogurt, with meats, cheeses, eggs, and fruit by request. Free harbor transportation to Casamicciola Port is provided in addition to free Wi-Fi and outdoor parking. Service deserves a mention as this small, family-run property as the welcome is particularly warm.