Capovaticano Resort Thalasso & Spa

It’s not on Capri or in Sicily; it’s not on the Amalfi coast, or on Sardinia, or on the Italian Riviera. And in the case of in the case of the Capovaticano Resort Thalasso & Spa, that’s a good thing. Not to cast any aspersions on Italy’s most famous beaches — it’s just that, in a country so crowded with inspiring destinations, you can hardly go wrong by venturing off the typical paths. Calabria, with its unspoiled coastline, the stretch of sand facing the Aeolian islands and the picturesque peak of Stromboli volcano? Now that’s a getaway — uno paradiso piccolo in the dainty toe of Italy’s high-heeled boot.

The rooms are modern and minimalist, sleek and silent, with crisp white linens, framed seascape photographs, and amenities including flat-screen TVs and private balconies. But they’re mostly just a peaceful place to sleep: the resort’s beauty is found beside the striking saltwater pool or beneath an elegant white umbrella on the private beach. Swim, stroll to the nearby lighthouse, learn to sail or just lie there — blissfully crowd-free, minus the other hotel guests, this stretch of sand is about as good as it gets on the Tyrrhenian coast.

There’s a sophisticated spa specializing in seawater-based thalassotherapy, and a few restaurants and bars. Il Mantineo is the more formal dining venue, but for lunch on the sand, you can’t beat the charmingly casual Stromboli Beach Restaurant. The same breezy space doubles as a beach bar, but if you’d rather get out of the sun, raise a glass of Malvasia Bianca in the Lobby Bar, feeling satisfied with yourself because you’re not battling the crowds on Capri.