Review of La Minervetta, by The TI Review Team

Maison La Minervetta doesn't really make a wrong move. From the fantastically tasteful re-design of the 1950's building - which skillfully marries tradition (local maiolica and painted-glass tile) with to the use of highest-quality materials, to the easygoing (but never insouciant) attentions of the vibrant young staff, it's the perfect escape for city folk who want beach-side charm without relinquishing urbane style.

The facilities

The turquoise-and-white lounge is yours to loll in; piles of design magazines and art books grace the Moroccan inlaid tables, and someone's always about to bring you a glass of Greco di Tufo or make you a Negroni. The three terraces-one off the entrance for cocktails, one for lounging/sunning, and one equipped with jacuzzi and access to a small but serviceable pool-allow for guests to spread out and find privacy. Though there's no restaurant, you can walk into the kitchen (where home cooked breakfast is served til 11:00 am) and simply ask for what you need, whether a faultless cappuccino or a plate of fruit; there's someone there to whip it up for you.

The rooms

Here's where the talents of owner and architect Marco Cacace-da Luca shine. Deep orange and navy mix with white for spaces that are contemporary but cosy, sparely furnished but warm nonetheless. Angular Flos lamps in classic design issues mix it up with homey slipcovered arm chairs and sofas; rattan chests double as side tables; small flatscreens provide TV access discreetly. The bathrooms-wildly tiled in nautically-inspired navy and white, or Tangiers-like orange and pink-are large and fitted with raincan showers and Frette robes. Book one of the junior suites for riotous colour combos (cerulean blue walls with mint green tile floors) and long private terraces.