Ischia is often overshadowed by its flashier neighbour Capri across the bay - but that's exactly how regulars prefer it! It's the Bay of Naples' volcanic sibling, laced with thermal springs and chestnut forests, and moving at a noticeably slower pace. The quietest corner is the tiny fishing village of Sant'Angelo and, set right on the edge in a mountain of volcanic stone, is the Miramare Sea Resort & Spa. The work of Neapolitan architect Giuliano dell'Uva, it's a rare piece of contemporary design on an island more often done up in terracotta and tile and a private beach, sea-view rooms and access to a proper thermal park are the perfect finishing touches.
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Happily, every room at the Miramare Sea Resort & Spa faces the sea. There are four categories from Superior and Deluxe Sea View rooms through to Junior Suites and the roomier Deluxe Suites, but all have the same soft, calming palette of whites, marine blues, polished stone and natural wood. Private terraces or balconies come as standard and they are generous enough for morning coffee with the bay laid out below. The Deluxe Suites add a proper lounge space, though you certainly won't feel cramped in any of the rooms.
That private beach, reachable only via the hotel's pathways.
Walk 20 minutes along the cliff path to Fumarole Beach, where volcanic steam rises through the sand. It's hot enough that locals still cook eggs buried in foil parcels!
The thermal park is at Miramare's sister property rather than on-site, so factor in a short walk each way. Sant'Angelo is also car-free – you'll arrive at a drop-off point and finish on foot or by golf cart.
Miramare Sea Resort & Spa can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Italy trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Italy trips featuring Miramare Sea Resort & Spa or get advice and suggestions from one of our Italy specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at Miramare Sea Resort & Spa start from around $250, or US$250, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.
A tiny island with a big following of those in the know.
