The review:

Botania Relais and Spa

A good-for-the-soul hotel on the island of Ischia, Botania Relais and Spa is an Italian gem that serves exquisite food against the backdrop of the Bay of Naples

Our Europe Travel Designer, Sarah Woodthorpe recently visited Botania Relais and Spa.

“I surprised myself with how much I fell in love with this characterful and charming hotel, filled with the colours of the Amalfi. In Italy you expect good food, but Botania really exceeded my expectations and the setting overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea is simply magical.”

Things to do

Aside from gazing at the mesmerising sea views, either from the jacuzzi on your private terrace or the shaded gardens, your time at Botania is relaxation personified, encircled by the pretty surroundings of the hotel. Its access to the island itself though is a highlight: explore the authenticity of Ischia around cobbled streets of little villages, in the lush, tropical garden of La Mortella or relaxing at a beach club, Aperol Spritz in hand. You could also hire a private yacht and cruise around Ischia’s pretty bays and caves or sail over to Positano for lunch at a low-key restaurant such as Da Adolfo, accessible only by boat.

Sleeping

Botania has a variety of rooms, but we’d recommend opting for one for the suites. Decorated in a classic but chic Italian style, expect gleaming handcrafted ceramic flooring, a white-on-white colour scheme, heavy draped curtains with matching sofas and Italian marble bathrooms. The suites feel very private and have outdoor space – each has their own garden terrace, dotted with oversized pot plants and seating. Some also have Jacuzzis for that added touch of luxury.

Food & Drink

The fertile, volcanic soils of Ischia produce some exceptionally tasty produces which you’ll sample, crafted into delicious, beautifully presented dishes. Botania also has its own organic garden which features heavily on the menu alongside freshly caught seafood, fish and homemade pasta. Botania is also home to vegetarian restaurant Il Mirto – a rarity in the Amalfi, and it was recently awarded a green Michelin star. Don’t miss the chance to taste Ischian wines too; the millennia-age vines pack a punch.

Sarah Says

“Staying at Botania was a such a treat but it also allowed me to explore Ischia, which is a real hidden gem, so unlike its glitzier neighbours on the Amalfi. My tip is to talk to the concierge at Botania – they know so much about the island and love sharing tips on where to shop and which little-known villages, beaches and gardens to visit. The vegetarian tasting menu I had at the hotel’s restaurant Il Mirto was a revelation – I had no idea that vegetables could taste so amazing!”

Best For

If you’re fond of a friendly yet utterly charming small hotel set in exceptionally pretty surroundings, then Botania will be the perfect place for your next Italian jaunt. Although children are welcome, we think this peaceful retreat is best for adults. Why not stay at Ischia after visiting cosmopolitan Naples and the archaeological site of Pompeii? To make it extra special, allow us to arrange a private yacht from Naples to the island to make your journey seamless and utterly unforgettable.

The Verdict

La Dolce Vita meets a replenishing and peaceful hotel, Botania will give you give you the chance to appreciate the best of Amalfi food, wine and scenery while staying under the radar. Authenticity at its best.

Sarah Woodthorpe

Personal Travel Designer

01488 689700 Read Sarah’s profile

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