We first visited The Tramontano in 1983, returning in 1999, and then perhpaps ten times since then. We book a room on the fourth floor with a large terrace overlooking the bay, which isn't cheap, but which is very special. I can stand and stare at that view for hours, it is beautiful, and ever changing, with a steady flow of fishing boats, ferries, cruise liners, super yachts and the like, backed by the menacing prescence of Vesuvius across the bay. The rooms do vary, and there are a few frayed edges, but it's an old building, full of character, not a bog standard " you could be anywhere in the world" modern hotel.
The staff have become real friends. They address us by name and look after our every need, from Toni the porter to Luigi the director, and everyone in between. I have seen many guests who are very abrupt and even downright rude to them, but if you treat them as people and not as servants, they never fail to respond.
The bar terrace has to be one of my favourite places in the world. Nothing can beat a cold beer sitting there, watching the sun go down after a hot day, chatting and nibbling tasty canapes prepared in the kitchen.
Breakfast never fails to please, with a vast array of cold meats, cheeses, cakes, pastries, fresh fruit, eggs, bacon, bread, yoghurt and fresh orange juice (not on the buffet, but just ask), and lashings of fresh coffee or tea (ask for cappuchino or espresso if you want it, no problem). Again, the view over the bay is an encouragement to linger.....
Meals in the restaurant are great. If you don't see what you fancy on the menu, just ask, and the attentive staff will make suggestions that they will prepare for you. There is always an appetiser to start, good bread with local olive oil, and excellent wine recommendations.
The pool area may not be large, but it is peaceful and pleasant, surrounded by sub-tropical palm trees and flowers. Towels are provided, though there are always plenty of selfish guests who think that there is a reservation system for the sun beds. My advice, tip them off and take the beds if you can't find one free.
The location is perfect for walking into town, with its bars, restaurants and shops, all within minutes. The staiton for buses and trains is about 5 minutes away. It is a nice stroll down to Marina Grande for more water side restaurants (try Delfinos, right at the far end of the harbour). Marina Piccola (the main port) is equally easy, just use the hotel lift and it is a 2 minute stroll along the bottom of the cliffs.
We are fortunate to enjoy other holidays through the year, but we always try to fit in at least a week in the terrific Tramontano!