Strand Hotel Delfini

"Recently spent 11 nights at the hotel with TUI. On arrival at the hotel at 2pm there were 45 steps to reception, this was not mentioned in the TUI brochure. We found out when we left the hotel that there is a lift that can be used for luggage. There are also many steps down to the sea. This was also not mentioned in the brochure, not an issue for us but people with mobility issues may struggle with the steps. However, the views of the hotel pool areas and the sea and Ischia Ponte and Castle in the background were amazing. The views this hotel has to offer were fabulous, it is worth the long journey from Naples to reach the Hotel for the views. There is no beach at the hotel that we found, as mentioned in the TUI brochure, access to the sea is via steps from the terrace. The terrace down by the sea had limited sunbeds and a snack bar, where young Italian males worked who were friendly and prepared delicious Zingaras which were 12 euros each. The hotel next door also did and charged 7 euros, also offered draft beer and again fantastic views. The pool area offered many sun lounges and in peak season we had no problem in getting one. They came with a mattress and a roof to provide shade which was a great idea. On arrival at reception we were advised that the room was not ready and that we would be offered a welcome drink. This took 20 minutes to arrive after I had returned to reception to enquire. We were told by people sat on the next table that the service is slow as there was only 1 member of staff on at that time. The lady behind reception was very helpful and friendly and gave us lots of information as there was no Welcome Meeting from TUI. The male waiters at breakfast were not. Most days we weren't spoken to at breakfast by the hotel staff, although Victoria did speak sometimes. Breakfast was simple, but adequate. Major issue with eating outside on the terrace due to wasps. The walk to Ischia Ponte was uphill and downhill, took 20 minutes partly along a busy road. A further 25 minutes would take you into Ischia Port, along the coast, a lovely walk. The Port is very busy as you would expect, lots of lovely boutiques if you enjoy shopping, bars and restaurants. An excellent pizza cost as from 5 euros otherwise a typical pasta dish was 18 euros. The hotel is located at the end of a road from Ponte or Port. A 7 day bus pass cost 15 euros and can be bought at the bus station at the port. I'd recommend no 12 bus from the Ponte or Port to the hotel as this doesn't go around the houses or number 13. You can get the 12 or 13 from the hotel, I'd recommend the 13 as this is more direct. Hotel reception have the timetables. Taxis are 20 euros from the Port and 15 euros from Ponte. Rooms were spacious and clean. Maid service was daily and towels changed most days. Plenty of places to visit on Ischia, we took a taxi to Saint Angelo which took 45 minutes. This is a lovely town, with a harbour and beaches, plenty of bars and more expensive boutiques. Beware, there is a public beach which is free, otherwise the other beaches are 50 euros per day for a sunbed and parasol. Overall, a great holiday just a shame that the hotel staff were not more friendly towards the Brits. The Italians had their coffees brought to them at breakfast, we didn't, not really a problem just an observation! Would recommend the hotel, but not if you want a good choice of bars and restaurants on your doorsteps as there are none, except the hotel next door."

"Lovely idyllic location with spectacular views but lets itself down badly despite some staff trying their best. Hotel looks tired and in need of upgrading in many, many places. To get more money they appear to let locals in on the weekend to sell more at the bars etc. this is to the detriment of hotel guests as all sun loungers are quickly taken up with locals either leaving their scooter helmets to reserve beds or the many locals we witnessed being ferried in on the water taxi from their boats. We actually shared a ride on more than one occasion when they were leaving at the end of the day. Because it’s a small hotel the weekend influx swamps the beach bar staff and we were left waiting for over an hour for lunch. Not the staffs fault as the team there were great at all times but they simply cannot cope with an extra 70/80 non hotel guests arriving Also hotel booked an 18th Birthday party (more money) so we were left wide awake til 1am whilst the disco wound down. This was in addition to the adjoining hotel having external parties pretty much every night Give it a miss."

"We stayed here for three nights and really enjoyed the quiet atmosphere. The room was simple but clean, and housekeeping came daily. Breakfast was nice with fresh croissants and coffee. Staff were kind and helpful whenever we had a question. The location is great—just a short walk to the center. Overall, a relaxing stay that matched the calm vibe of Ischia. "