Ed.: The Inspired Stays series highlights hotels we love around Italy. Each property is independently reviewed by an Italy Magazine writer, who is generally hosted on a complimentary basis. Our contributors do not accept compensation or gifts in exchange for specific types of coverage. We only showcase properties we would genuinely recommend overall.
Why we love it
Perched high on Monte Vico, this family-run resort offers breathtaking views of Ischia, excellent dining options and a spa that includes an enviable circuit of 11 thermal pools.
What to expect
As one of the top five-star luxury resorts on the island of Ischia, San Montano combines the best of the island’s wellness offerings with delicious local cuisine and easy access to the beach, but it’s the view from the property’s privileged position that will win over even the most skeptical guests. If you can tear yourself away from the view, you’ll find plenty of charm and character in details like the folksy ceramic figurines in the lobby and the sfogliatella that they place in your room as a welcome amenity.
Background
Built in the 1970s in a postmodern style, the property was purchased and restored by the local De Siano family in 2008. Following the 2021 opening of their award-winning second hotel, Borgo Santandrea in Amalfi, the family has undertaken a major renovation of San Montano, beginning with a portion of the suites. It is in the midst of a multi-phase renovation that will modernize the amenities while updating the design to recreate the mid-century-inspired look influenced by Gio Ponti and Carlo Mollino that gained Borgo Santandrea such critical acclaim.
Location, location, location
Though Ischia has several higher mountain peaks, including Monte Epomeo — the island’s dormant volcano — Monte Vico towers over the town of Lacco Ameno and the picturesque Bay of San Montano. From up here, guests enjoy sweeping views of the island. Lacco Ameno, a small town with great shopping and a couple of other upscale resorts, is a five-minute drive down the mountain. Forio — Ischia’s largest town — is a 10-minute taxi ride away.
Where you’ll sleep
My suite, which was on the third floor, had a living area, two bathrooms, and a private terrace, but had not yet been renovated when I stayed in summer 2025. I did, however, get a peek at a couple of renovated suites, one of which is a duplex with direct access to an infinity pool shared by the suites on that side of the building, and loved the fresh new design, which includes blue and white geometric tiled floors, mid-century-inspired furnishings, and a Smeg espresso machine and kettle. The new Lighthouse Suite features a unique glasshouse-inspired living area, a private pool and garden, and 360-degree views.
Dining & drinks
The food is excellent, from morning to night, starting with the ample buffet breakfast that includes cakes and pastries, eggs made to order and a make-your-own juice bar. For lunch, grab a table on the terrace at Franco’s for tasty pizza, salads and other light fare. In the evenings, the Sunset Lounge is a popular spot for aperitivo on the outdoor terrace. (I recommend the San Montano Spritz with limoncello and mint.) Afterward, head over to the formal restaurant, La Veranda, for gourmet takes on traditional dishes, like lobster panzanella and seafood risotto with lemon and pepper.
Service notes
Upon checking in, I was surprised to learn that the concierge remembered me from a stay five years prior and was courteous and helpful. Unfortunately, some poor communication with the reception staff resulted in a 40-minute wait for the complimentary shuttle to pick my husband and me up in Lacco Ameno, which was frustrating. Overall, though, the staff were polite and efficient.
Spa time
Ischia is known for its natural hot springs with healing thermal water and San Montano harnesses that mineral-rich water in its circuit of 11 thermal pools. It’s a major selling point for guests who don’t need to leave the property to get the kind of experience they would find at Negombo or Giardini Poseidon. The spa also has a Finnish sauna, Turkish bath, sensory experience showers and Kneipp pool. Unique treatments include a massage in the Lemontano citrus grove and thermal mud treatments.
Family perks
Kids are welcome at the resort, but the various pools and cliffs might be a hazard to toddlers, who would need constant supervision. The property is better suited to couples and older children.
You should know...
Guests staying at the resort get access to the lounge chairs and umbrellas at the beach club on San Montano Bay, one of Ischia’s most idyllic beaches. The hotel has four private boats that guests can book for excursions around Ischia, Capri, Procida, or the Amalfi Coast. There’s also a small boutique by the pool that sells designer swimwear and chic clothes by the likes of Missoni.
Accessibility
- The hotel has ADA friendly rooms and bathrooms.
- There is an onsite elevator.
Features & amenities
- Seaside setting
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Free WiFi
- Free parking
- Pool
- Spa
- Garden
- Fitness room
- Family friendly
Contacts
San Montano Resort & Spa
Via Nuova Montevico 26, Lacco Ameno, Ischia
Tel. +39 081994033
Website
