Villa Catiè

The most frustrating part came on our last morning. We’d booked a taxi through the hotel the night before to get to the bus station, and the host said it was no problem. The driver arrived on time, then asked for three times what we expected for a seven-minute ride. We didn’t have enough cash, so we had to find an ATM on foot. We then realized he’d left us at the wrong station and we were close to missing our bus to Naples. We went back to where he’d dropped us, ready to pay what seemed fair, but he’d vanished. Hot, sweaty and annoyed, we hurried to the tea bus station and just caught it. I wouldn’t use that taxi service again. We had a mostly good stay, and the hotel covers most of what you’d want from budget accommodation in this area for reaching the places we wanted to see. The room’s beds were comfortable, though there was a urine or sewer smell from somewhere outside that we couldn’t locate. Getting around takes some planning. The hotel is in a great spot, but the walk uphill in summer heat was steep and long from the nearest bus stop. A taxi or a scooter arranged in advance would help. We rented a scooter from the hotel, which charged a daily rate plus extra for every kilometre beyond 70km. Our Amalfi, Positano and Sorrento round trip was nearly twice that distance. It was a great outing and we were happy to pay, but keep the surcharge in mind. The restaurant was closed Tuesday night, so hotel staff ordered delivery for us. We didn’t know where it came from, but it was probably the worst Italian food I’ve had. Breakfast the next morning was adequate. The following evening we ate at O’Ferdinandino, and by coincidence it was probably the best Italian food I’ve had. Thanks for the great meal and the view of Mt Vesuvius.

We spent a week here with a rental car, and the friendly staff were happy to help. Anna and Francesco took care of us, grazie per l'host, tutto bene. The hotel is uphill, reached by a very narrow road, with parking right in front. Breakfast is served at the hotel; the restaurant is 135 steps higher, with a great view across town to Mount Vesuvius. It’s a good base for visiting Vesuvius, Amalfi, Positano, Capri, Sorrento and plenty of other places.

It’s tucked away off the main route, but that gives you a feel for the gritty, pleasant everyday side of Greater Naples. The Circumvesuviana is a 20-minute walk away, and there are undiscovered Roman villas 15 minutes away. This makes a great base for exploring the Naples region. The breakfast is great, the room is clean and the pool is refreshing. The view is spectacular, and the staff are friendly. Food’s tasty too. Everything just feels right.

The food and wine were unbelievably delicious, and there was plenty of both. Beppe, Francesco and the rest of the staff are such kind, warm people, and they made our stay extra special. We were welcomed like family, the warmest greeting we’ve ever had. The location and its stunning Mediterranean views took our breath away the whole time.