Hotel Rivamare

Hotel Rivamare was an easy place to come back to after days spent exploring Ischia. We went out for thermal waters, beaches and little corners of the island, then walked to restaurants in the evening without needing a taxi. On our last morning, the ferry was an easy walk away. There's also a public beach opposite the hotel, with a 10% guest discount. We didn't use it, but it's a handy option for a final swim. The hotel's Art Deco look has a nostalgic feel: yellow walls, tangerine awnings and turquoise patterned tile floors. It seems to have been updated with care while keeping its character. The seaside breakfast terrace, with flowers and a view of the beach umbrellas, was lovely. Breakfast isn't a buffet; you order from a kind man who has lived in Manchester. He cheerfully points out the hotel's motto, “pure relaxation.” Service can be slow if you want more, but it suited the leisurely mood. The fresh fruit was a highlight, especially the ripe watermelon, plums and peaches. We were there for a quick stay and wanted somewhere low-key, attractive and well situated. Rivamare is about a 10-minute walk from the port. Our “comfort” or maybe “premium” room was compact but spotless and well equipped. The bathroom worked fine, though the shower was snug. With the sea nearby and a scooter available to rent downstairs, the room had what we needed. Scooter rental at the hotel was €40/day and made it easy to explore. It's not conventional luxury, but we found peace, warmth, beauty and a useful location. We'd gladly stay again.