San Montano Resort & Spa: restorative thermal spas, fine dining and island charm

No trip to southern Italy feels quite complete without hopping across to one of the emerald islands scattered along its coastline – and while Capri may often steal the headlines for mediterranean cool and glamour, it’s sister island of Ischia offers a uniquely restorative charm all its own. And, set within three hectares of private parkland atop one of the island’s highest vantage points, San Montano Resort & Spa is the place to be for relaxing, fine dining and soaking up the benefits of the island’s thermal spas. 

San Montano commands cinematic views across Ischia’s hills and out towards the neighbouring islands, red geraniums and lilac wisteria spill over stone walls, and the air is perfume with sea salt and citrus groves. Accommodation is as thoughtfully curated as the landscape. From elegantly appointed rooms bathed in natural light to expansive suites and secluded villas, privacy is paramount. The split-level suites, complete with private infinity pools, invite languid afternoons suspended between sky and sea, while the remarkable Lighthouse Suite – with its panoramic living space – feels wonderfully theatrical, as though the island itself is your private stage.Wellness is woven into the very fabric of San Montano. The Ocean Blue Spa is a sanctuary of calm, offering indulgent treatments inspired by the island’s volcanic earth and mineral-rich waters. But the true jewel in the resort’s crown is outdoors within San Montano’s serene H2O Park. A slow wander takes you past thermal spa pools glistening invitingly beneath open skies; private plunge pools and natural rock pools are tucked discreetly among fragrant lemon trees; and a sun-drenched solarium provides the perfect setting for post-treatment repose.

For those drawn to the shoreline, the hotel’s chauffeur service whisks guests down to its private stretch of sand at Spiaggia di San Montano, where waves lap softly at the bay. The private beach is just moments away from the celebrated thermal baths of Negombo, a haven of cascading pools and botanical beauty. Another essential excursion is Giardini La Mortella, the enchanting subtropical garden conceived by Susana Walton, wife of the composer William Walton, and brought to life by celebrated landscape architect Russell Page. A tapestry of rare plants, hidden pathways and sweeping sea views, it is a living artwork – and a must-visit for explorers and plant-lovers.

Back at the resort, gastronomy takes centre stage, with multiple excellent restaurants and bars to choose from depending on your mood. Franco’s offers relaxed yet refined fare, perfect for long lunches – and divinely fresh salads – and a glass or two of local wine. Acropoli Pizza & Bar celebrates nearby Naple’s most beloved staple with flair, while the Sunset Bar provides expertly crafted cocktails and moreish bar snacks, along with musical entertainment long after the sun goes down in spectacular fashion. For a more elevated affair, La Veranda is the star of the show, presenting fine dining at its most elegant – exquisitely fresh ingredients transformed into dishes that honour both land and sea, each plate as vibrant as the island itself. From Ischia rabbit tortello and “Aironi” rice tart with seafood and Mazzara prawns to slow-cooked veal cheek with Jerusalem artichoke cream and seared sea bass steak with eggplant pureè and smoked mozzarella reduction, every mouthful is a rare treat. Finish off the Ischian way with an indulgent dessert, sweet espresso and delicious limoncello.

Between the indulgent cuisine, the refreshing spa rituals and the heady scent of lemon blossoms carried on the breeze, San Montano delivers impeccable luxury far above the hustle and bustle of the mainland. 

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