Hotel San Francesco Al Monte

Be transported back in time in this stunning hotel in Naples. Occupying the carefully restored 16th-century Convent of Santa Lucia al Monte, this unique hotel offers luxury accommodation at the foot of San Martino hill. The interior retains all of its original, peaceful and spiritual atmosphere; fragments of frescos have survived here and there, along with old majolica decorations and many fascinating architectural details. The rooms have been converted from the Franciscan friars' cells – marked by a refined and simple elegance, they are far from austere, instead sumptuously decorated with charming antiques. All rooms have spectacular views of Naples, from the gulf with the cone-shaped Vesuvius to the island of Capri. Most spectacular of all, however, is the roof garden. There, on the terrace, you can relax in the swimming pool or Jacuzzi, and take in the unforgettable 360-degree views of Naples. Add a choice of restaurants, and you have the perfect base in Naples.

The rooms retain many period details and are elegantly decorated with delicate colours, lamps and classic furnishings. Bathrooms have a bath or Jacuzzi. When it comes to dining, you are spoilt for choice, with three restaurants, all offering refined Mediterranean and Neapolitan cuisine. The 'La Terrazza dei Barbanti' restaurant also offers a spectacular view of the Gulf of Naples. The highlight of the hotel, however, is the roof garden, which offers views of Naples, the hill, vineyard and monastery of San Martino, and the Castle of Sant'Elmo. Here, among the hanging gardens, with their walkways and bowers, you will find the swimming pool, carved out of the rock and surrounded by loungers. A second pool, with hot water and hammam, is hidden in a grotto. A path leads from the hotel's terrace to the vineyard, offering walks through an unspoilt landscape of fruit tress and trellises covered with grapes. The overall impression is one of peace and wellbeing.

The centre of Naples can be reached by cable car, which leaves just 300 metres from the hotel. Alternatively you can catch a bus from the stop outside the hotel. The historical centre, as well as such monuments as the Piazza Plebiscito, are just minutes away, while the Mostra d'Oltremare and Archaeological Museum are just a short taxi ride away. Capodichino Airport is 10 km away, and can be reached in 20 minutes, while Naples central train station is 8 km away.