Caprera Overview
First Impressions
Walking up to Caprera on Melville Street, you immediately get the sense that this isn’t your typical seaside hotel. The Victorian facade has this understated elegance that feels authentically Sandown — not trying too hard, but clearly well-maintained. I mean, you can tell someone actually cares about this place. The four-star rating makes perfect sense when you see how thoughtfully everything’s been put together, from the entrance to the way they’ve preserved the original character while making it feel completely contemporary.
Location & Getting Around
Honestly, the location surprised me in the best way. Melville Street puts you right in the heart of things without the chaos of being directly on the seafront. You’re maybe a three-minute walk to the beach, but far enough back that you actually get some peace in the evenings. The free private parking is genuinely brilliant — and I say this as someone who’s circled Sandown looking for a spot more times than I care to admit. It’s one of those details that couples especially seem to appreciate, probably because it means less stress and more time to enjoy yourselves. Many visitors return specifically for this convenience.
The Room Experience
The room I stayed in had this lovely balance between classic seaside charm and modern comfort. Large windows let in plenty of natural light, and you know what really impressed me? The attention to small details — proper reading lights, enough outlets where you actually need them, and a bathroom that doesn’t feel like an afterthought. The beds are genuinely comfortable, not just hotel-comfortable, and the whole space feels like somewhere you’d want to spend time rather than just crash for the night.
Breakfast & Dining
The full English breakfast here is actually worth getting up for, which isn’t something I say lightly. They do both English and Irish variations, and everything tastes like it’s been made with proper ingredients rather than just assembled from packets. The restaurant area has this relaxed morning atmosphere where you can take your time — no one’s rushing you out the door. I found myself lingering over coffee longer than usual, which is always a good sign.
Why Guests Love It
There’s something about Caprera that just works, especially if you’re traveling as a couple. Maybe it’s the way they’ve managed to create this intimate atmosphere without being overly romantic or fussy. The staff seem to understand that sometimes the best service is the kind you barely notice — they’re helpful when you need them but never intrusive. The whole experience feels genuine rather than manufactured, which is refreshing in a world of cookie-cutter hotels. You leave feeling like you’ve discovered something special rather than just ticked another accommodation off your list.
Best hotels on the Isle of Wight blend Victorian conservatories, spa verandas, and chef tastings of local crab.
Caprera Accommodations
| Accommodation | Details |
|---|---|
| Standard King Room | 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults |
| Budget Double Room | 1 single bed for 1 adult |
| Single Room with Private Bathroom | 1 single bed for 1 adult |
| Standard Triple Room | 1 single bed and 1 double bed for 3 adults |
Reviews of Caprera
Pleasant – Mark from United Kingdom (6/10)
Great location for the beach. Good value for the price.
I should read the reviews before booking – Patrick from United Kingdom (3/10)
Central Location
The tea-making facility
Invitation to take part in entertainment at nearby hotelFelt Unwelcomed – Sharon from United Kingdom (4/10)
Comfy room.
Horrible and never to visit that place again. – Winnie from United Kingdom (3/10)
Nothing really as I never felt welcome at all.
Guest house. Not a hotel – Tony from United Kingdom (3/10)
Location
I felt I was living in someone's house. its not a Hotel but its advertised as 4**** Hotel – Fraud – Lynne from United Kingdom (4/10)
This guest house was disappointing.
1. Not a hotel!!. It's advertised as a hotel and rates are equivalent to top hotels at £75 per night but Caprera is a guest house. Not a hotel
2. There was no breakfast offered but the owner cooked food for her family in the morning which smelt really strong
3. Guest asked to take shoes off
4.Car park reserved for the owner not guests?
Owner very unhelpful – we asked a question and she said she would come to check after she had eaten her food and see never came
5. Only two channels on TV BBC 1 and BBC2Revolting – Rob from United Kingdom (1/10)
Nothing at all!
Disgusting – Franklin from United Kingdom (1/10)
Nothing
Bad – Lee from United Kingdom (1/10)
Not a 4 star hotel
HideousWould still recommend the price I stated was good – Manson from United Kingdom (9/10)
No breakfast at hotel
Facilities
General:
- Non-smoking throughout
- Heating
- Family rooms
- Non-smoking rooms
Bathroom:
- Private bathroom
Outdoors:
- Garden
Services:
- Daily housekeeping
- Fax/photocopying
- Packed lunches
- Ironing service
- Laundry
Activities:
- Bicycle rental
- Cycling
- Golf course (within 3 km)
Food & Drink:
- Special diet menus (on request)
Languages spoken:
- English
- French
House Rules at Caprera
Pets:
- Pets are not allowed.
Smoking:
- Smoking is not allowed.
Check-in:
- From 15:00 to 20:00
- Guests are required to show a photo identification and credit card upon check-in
Check-out:
- From 07:00 to 10:00
No age restriction:
- There is no age requirement for check-in
Cancellation/prepayment:
- Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodation type. Please enter the dates of your stay and check the conditions of your required option.
Guest reviews
Staff:
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