Hotel La Palma on Capri has reopened its doors, marking a significant renovation for the historic property. This elegant destination is situated on the iconic Italian island of Capri, a place known for its glamorous atmosphere and stunning natural beauty.
Hotel La Palma first opened in 1822.
The Oetker Collection, a group renowned for its portfolio of luxury hotels, has taken over the management of Hotel La Palma, working in partnership with Reuben Brothers. This marks the 11th property to join the Oetker Collection. The hotel has undergone an extensive 2.5-year renovation, aiming to blend its historical legacy with contemporary luxury. The CEO of Oetker Collection has expressed excitement about launching a ‘masterpiece hotel’ in such a coveted destination, viewing it as an homage to ‘la dolce vita’.
The renovation has involved a reduction in the number of rooms from 80 to 50, with 18 of these now being suites. Each suite is designed to offer a private balcony or terrace. The interior design was overseen by Francis Sultana, who collaborated with Italian craftsmen and local artisans. Contemporary ceiling frescos by Roberto Ruspoli are a notable feature, drawing inspiration from the Roman world and incorporating elements of the island’s natural landscape.
The design aesthetic aims to fuse Capri’s understated elegance with a sense of 1950s jet-set glamour. The rooms feature a color palette inspired by the Mediterranean, with calming blues, greens, and turquoise tones. Textures are emphasized to create a tranquil environment. Bathrooms are lined with marble and bronze, reflecting a sophisticated style. Preserving the hotel’s authentic character, elements like handmade rattan furniture from Bonacina, artwork by Luisa Lambri, and custom bathroom fittings by Stella have been incorporated.
Culinary and Wellness Experiences
Hotel La Palma offers several dining and bar options. The hotel also features its own private beach club, named Da Gioia by La Palma, which is envisioned as a social hub for the island, transitioning from day to night. This beach club was also a creative project by Francis Sultana.
The hotel’s signature restaurant, Gennaro’s, is led by Chef Gennaro Esposito. It aims to evoke the atmosphere of 1950s Capri, serving authentic Italian cuisine in a contemporary setting with views of the surrounding streets. Adjacent to the restaurant is Gennaro’s Bar & Terrace, which provides a space to experience Italian culinary excellence. For dining with a view, Bianca is an open-air restaurant located on the rooftop, offering vistas of Capri Village and the sea.
The newly constructed pool deck features the Aqua Bar & Pool, designed to evoke the golden age of classic Capri. For relaxation, the La Palma Spa provides a range of treatments. The wellness facilities include three treatment rooms, one of which is a double suite, a wet area with a salt room, sauna, Turkish baths, and sensory showers, as well as a dedicated beauty cabin. For those seeking to stay active, the spa also includes state-of-the-art Technogym equipment.
Collaborations with Italian brands extend across the hotel’s offerings.
Creative Alliances
Hotel La Palma has partnered with the Italian beauty brand Santa Maria Novella, which was founded in 1221, to provide its bathroom amenities. This collaboration highlights a commitment to integrating established Italian artisans and heritage brands into the guest experience.
Beyond in-room amenities, the hotel has also launched an exclusive capsule collection. This collection was curated in collaboration with editor and tastemaker GianLuca Longo, featuring bespoke products from various Italian brands known for their craftsmanship and quality. The collection includes designs from well-known Italian labels such as La Double J, Marinella, Farella, Aquazzurra, Panizza 1879, Marella, Allegra Hicks, Chiara Grifantini, Emilia Brano, and La Gae L.
The selection of brands for the capsule collection reflects a commitment to showcasing Italian craftsmanship and quality, offering guests unique items to remember their stay.
The overall guest experience is enhanced by Oetker Collection’s characteristic hospitality, aiming to create a sense of timelessness rooted in a family spirit and genuine kindness. This approach is central to the brand’s philosophy for all its properties.
How to reach Capri
The closest airport is Naples International Airport. From Naples, you can take a ferry or hydrofoil to reach Capri. The journey by sea from Naples to Capri typically takes around 50 minutes.
Alternatively, you can travel to nearby ports like Sorrento or Positano and take a ferry or hydrofoil to Capri. These shorter sea crossings take approximately 25 minutes.
What is Oetker Collection
The Oetker Collection is a group that curates a portfolio of high-quality hotels, estates, and villas. These properties are situated in desirable locations across Europe, the UK, Brazil, and the Caribbean.
The collection is distinguished by its emphasis on luxurious quality, elegance, and a welcoming, family-like atmosphere, with each property aiming to be a landmark in its destination.
When visiting Capri, consider the ferry schedules from Naples or Sorrento, as they offer efficient transport to the island. Booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season, can help ensure a smoother travel experience for you and your family.
For Michael and me, the combination of the hotel’s refined design and the island’s natural beauty offered a perfect escape. Lily was particularly fascinated by the frescos in the hotel lobby, and even young Ethan enjoyed the colorful tiles in the bathrooms.
The attention to detail in the renovation, from the artwork to the choice of materials, creates an environment that feels both luxurious and deeply connected to its location. The range of experiences, from the beach club to the spa, means you can tailor your stay to suit your pace, whether you’re looking for relaxation or a more active exploration of Capri.
The variety of dining options ensures that you can explore different facets of Italian cuisine throughout your stay. Whether enjoying a meal at Gennaro’s or taking in the views from Bianca, the culinary aspect is clearly a priority.
The integration of esteemed Italian brands into the hotel’s offerings, such as Santa Maria Novella for amenities and the curated capsule collection, adds an extra layer of authenticity and exclusivity. These elements contribute to a holistic experience that celebrates Italian culture and craftsmanship.