Monastery stays offer some of Italy's best bargains but you know you're onto something really special when the digs are inside Ischia's huge castle. The former monks’ cells here still have a certain appealing sobriety about them, with their dark-wood furniture, white walls and vintage terracotta tiles. Elsewhere, the hotel exudes a pleasing sense of space and style.
Relax and enjoy the vaulted ceilings, plush sofas, antiques and contemporary art by the late owner and artist Gabriele Mattera. There are no TVs but the views more than make up for this.