The grand staircase rising from the tiled lobby of the elegant Albergo della Regina Isabella on Italy’s volcanic spa island of Ischia suggests images of film stars drifting indoors after a leisurely dip in the seaside pool. Two ancient thermal springs beneath the hotel feed a well-equipped medical and leisure spa that includes osteopaths, physiologists and other specialists. Natural thermal soaking pools and mineral-rich volcanic mud sourced from the island’s caves connect guests directly to the dramatic silhouette of dormant Monte Epomeo on the horizon.
Constructed in the 1950s near ancient Greek and Roman ruins, the hotel was the creation of film producer and publisher Angelo Rizzoli and keeps a cinematic thread by hosting an annual film festival each July. Long a favored retreat for the likes of Richard Burton, Elizabeth Taylor, Charlie Chaplin and Clark Gable, the property’s grand suites include namesakes such as The Richard Burton and The Elizabeth Taylor. Each floor features a distinct ceramic tile design, and every guest room displays a unique tile pattern produced by the island’s centuries-old ceramic workshop.
Dine on-site at Indaco, where chef Pasquale Palamaro prepares fresh, inventive dishes inspired by local ingredients. Mornings bring sweeping sea views alongside made-to-order hot dishes, an abundant selection of fruits and and an array of freshly baked breads and pastries. The hotel is reachable by hydrofoil or ferry from Naples, Capri and the Amalfi Coast; for a more exclusive arrival, guests can use the Regina Isabella’s private launch to cross the Bay of Naples to the resort’s own seaside landing.