Villa Brunella

Villa Brunella is built into the side of a mountain and surrounded by stunning gardens filled with fruit trees, flowers, and palms. Originally a private villa, the hotel has been run by the same family since the 1940s. Appropriately, common spaces have the feel of a family living room, with an eclectic mishmash of furniture collected through the years. There are plants and succulents everywhere -- inside, outside, and lining the hallways -- which add brightness to the interiors, but the traditional -- and a bit dowdy -- decor could use an update. Still, the tranquil and relaxed vibe lures plenty of couples of all ages, including a few honeymooners. 

The small pool is a popular spot, as its deck near the cliffside has a stunning panoramic view of Marina Piccola. Another notable common space is the hotel's restaurant, Terrazza Brunella, where picture windows offer full-on views of Capri's famed Faraglioni rock formation. Guests can expect to see tourists dining here, as well. All in all, it's a warm and comfortable place to stay that receives positive reviews for the staff's personal attention and some of Capri's most unforgettable scenery. 

Villa Brunella is located just off the Via Tragara, which connects the town of Capri to the scenic overlook opposite the Faraglioni rocks (five-minute walk). The area is quiet, and surrounded by private villas and small hotels. There is no car access to the property -- guests arrive on the island by ferry, then take the funicular or a taxi to the historic center, followed by a 15-minute uphill walk to the hotel. An electric cart can transport guests with mobility issues, and the hotel can pick up guests' luggage for a fee. As for the historic center of Capri, it includes sights such as Piazza Umberto I, Museo Ignazio Cerio, and the Piazzeta, and is a five-minute drive from Marina Piccola. Nearer to the villa, beach lovers can walk to La Fontelina beach club in four minutes and the Da Luigi ai Faraglioni beach club in six. 

The 20 guest rooms at the Villa Brunella are spacious, and all have private terraces or balconies -- some have sea views, which are spectacular (the best are from Special Junior Suites), while others overlook the gardens. Decor is old-fashioned and dated, combining floral prints, white wicker, pastel upholstery, and some over-the-top Italianate fixtures and accessories. The furniture is a mix of styles, all a bit dated, but not shabby or over-worn. Bathrooms are roomy, with marble sinks and hand-painted majolica tiles. Most have both tubs and walk-in shower stalls, while a few have old-school soaking tubs or jetted spa tubs (in some suites). Toiletries and hairdryers are provided. 

Options range from Classic Rooms with double beds to Special Junior Suites with separate living rooms and king-size beds. All rooms are built into the cliff below the restaurant and lobby, and mobility-challenged guests might want to let the hotel know ahead of time, as there are lots of stairs (and two elevators). Amenities include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, minibars, and laptop-sized safes. Windows fitted with electronic storm shutters to keep rooms cool are a nice touch. Connecting rooms are available upon request. 

Continental breakfast is free each morning, served poolside or delivered to guest rooms, though mostly consists of pastries and breads. Hot food is offered for an additional charge, and special diets can be accommodated. Terrazza Brunella, the hotel's sea-view restaurant, is a popular foodie destination, serving traditional Caprese dishes and featuring local, seasonal ingredients. 24-hour room service is available. 

A small outdoor pool, open seasonally, has a poolside bar and cafe serving drinks and light meals throughout the day. Its sundeck, lined with sea-facing lounge chairs, offers panoramic views of Marina Piccola below. Massage, facials, and body treatments are available in guest rooms or the small fitness and wellness area. The fitness center is in an attractive open-air pavilion surrounded by leafy plants, but it has only a few cardio machines and a weight bench. There's also a lobby TV lounge with a supply of movies and an internet corner.