Hotel La Palma, Capri

Best for… A romantic splurge! 

The vibe… The oldest hotel on the island (since 1822!), Hotel La Palma underwent a very thoughtful and lengthy renovation, with interior designer Francis Sultana at the helm. It’s in the center of town, but feels like an oasis once you step inside. There’s a subdued energy when you walk into the lobby, which has murals by Roberto Ruspoli and furniture that is lovely and comfortable, but doesn’t shout. Everything is supremely tasteful–from the pool (with a great bar!) on a terrace up above the hustle bustle of the island–to the rooftop bar and restaurant. I’m a big fan of all the Oetker Collection properties (the Bristol in Paris, Hotel du Cap, The Lanesborough to name a few), so it makes sense that this would be done just right.

The rooms… The white and turquoise palette felt like a confident move to me—because it can go wrong—but it worked perfectly here—making it feel like it’s always been there, rather than a design trend. Rooms are airy and bright…we had one room that had a very big terrace and then when our flight was cancelled we had to move to a room on the ground floor next to the pool. While it was physically smaller it was well laid out so it didn’t feel small, and we liked the direct access to the pool from our little terrace. 

The wellness… I opted for the Augustinus Bader facial which was divine—but they have Tata Harper treatments as well. 

The food and drink… Breakfast is a real star here. Besides a buffet that is one of the best that I’ve seen in Italy (which is saying a lot!), they have a fig toast they make table side that is insane. There are several great restaurants and bars, but the lunch I dream of is the vongole at Da Gioia, their beach club, which has the most beautiful little private cove for swimming, as well as sun beds for guests. 

Be sure to… Take the 45 minute walk through the island to the breathtaking Villa Lysis, and go to the Anema e Core bar/club just next to the hotel one night after dinner. 

Parting words… If Capri is on your list, and you’re splurging, this is the place.

Date of stay… September 2023