The Icons: Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast

Le Sirenuse, the elegantly romantic choice in Positano

Le Sirenuse stands out for its intimate charm and impeccable attention to detail, making it an ideal choice for couples and discerning travelers seeking a romantic experience with a heavy hand of sumptuous style. It’s a historical hotel too, now in its third generation of the Sersale family’s ownership, the patriarch of which used to be the mayor of Positano.

This iconic property in Positano is certainly picturesque, with a mix of stunning white and blush red façades offset by lush greenery and filled with antiques curated by the auction-scouring Franco, of the Sersale family. The floor tiles and stucco paneling were painstakingly restored by local craftsmen, while many of the pieces found throughout the space were sourced from local artisans. The artists' flair that runs throughout the family has continued today, with Artists at Le Sirenuse, a site-specific set of art installations from leading international artists to enjoy around the property.

The heart of the sophisticated hotel is the pool terrace, offering close-up views of the pastel hues of Positano and the shimmering sea, reflected beautifully off the tiled dome roof of one of the buildings. This tranquil space is perfect for lounging, sipping on cocktails, or simply soaking in the beauty of the Amalfi Coast (and its visitors).

The rooms at Le Sirenuse are white-walled (painted every winter) to reflect the light, and individually decorated with the same mix of antiques and contemporary decor you find in the rest of the hotel, as well as the custom bath products of Eau d’Italie, designed by the Sersale family. The hotel says the spaces become a “spotless realm of light” and we couldn’t agree more. The suites are particularly noteworthy, featuring spacious living areas, private balconies, and lavish bathrooms with marble finishes.

La Sponda, the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, is a sprawling light-filled space (when it’s not lit by hundreds of candles in the evening) renowned for its simple approach to Mediterranean cuisine. Chef Gennaro Russo combines the local ingredients with historical context, leaving behind the fancy for the fresh flavors he’s used since the beginning of his career.

Casual dining will be had at Aldo’s, an all-day restaurant named after one of the founders. Champagne, oysters, Neapolitan classics, a range of vegetarian and vegan options…oh, and a tiramisù for dessert–it had us soaring.

The Pool Bar, only for hotel guests, will serve up club sandwiches and daytime pastas. In the evening, the dimly lit bar becomes the perfect setting for quiet pre-dinner drinks. Post-dinner, head to Don’t Worry Bar, the ‘speakeasy in plain sight’ inside the hotel. The expert bartenders will craft up cocktails while you listen to the DJ spin classic vinyls and enjoy one of the many desserts on offer.

You’ll also find refuge in Franco’s Bar, the al fresco experience dedicated to Franco Sersale. Besides expertly crafted cocktails to enjoy pre-dinner or post-beach, you’ll find an incredible mix of modern art from the likes of Karl Holmqvist (the mirror graffiti poems in the restrooms) and Giuseppe Ducrot (the acid yellow ceramic fountain on the terrace) layered on top of the restored facades completed by Italian artisans and ceramics from centuries-old companies like Fornace De Martino.

While Le Sirenuse doesn't have a beach club, guests can enjoy the nearby beaches of Positano, easily accessible by a short walk or a shuttle service. For wellness, the hotel's spa provides a sanctuary of relaxation with a range of treatments featuring the iconic Augustinus Bader line as well as AVEDA and Margy’s Monte Carlo. The spa features a sauna, steam room, and a gym equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring guests can (at least have the option to) maintain their fitness routines while enjoying their stay.

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Il San Pietro di Positano, for a secluded and dramatic stay

Il San Pietro di Positano is distinguished by its unique cliffside location and unique views, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking seclusion and dramatic landscapes. Arriving at Il San Pietro feels like entering a hidden paradise, with the hotel's discreet entrance leading to an elevator that descends through the rock to the main lobby. The journey to the hotel itself is an experience, offering glimpses of the awe-inspiring vistas that await.

The hotel's design seamlessly blends with the natural surroundings, featuring terraces carved into the cliffs, verdant gardens, and a stunning infinity pool that seems to merge with the sea. The elegant yet understated décor reflects the beauty of the Amalfi Coast, with natural materials and a color palette inspired by the Mediterranean.

Rooms and suites at Il San Pietro are designed to maximize the breathtaking views. Each room boasts a private terrace overlooking the sea, mirrored by the decor in palettes of green and blue. The tiled floors combined with floor to ceiling windows pull the light-filled landscapes of the Amalfi right into your space. The suites are expansive with comfortable living areas, luxurious furnishings and bathrooms featuring deep soaking tubs and rain showers.

Zass, the Michelin-starred main restaurant, offers a culinary experience that celebrates the flavors of the region. Belgian-born Chef Alois Vanlangenaeker crafts exquisite dishes (the famous John Dory fish dish featuring his signature champagne and truffle sauce really is that good) using ingredients from the hotel’s ten terraced organic gardens that covers over half of the property. Better yet, everything in the kitchen is entirely homemade. The informal dining side of the hotel is featured at Carlino for al fresco seaside dining. The dishes are made using more of the garden’s fare, including the signature Lemon Spaghetti.

We must also note the kitchens of the hotel, which are an engineering and sustainable marvel. Dug into almost 2,000 cubic meters of solid rock, the one-of-a-kind space uses only Italian made induction heating equipment, a custom energy system that only uses a fourth of the electricity that a comparable kitchen would use, and an air circulating system that filters and purifies the air. Every night, the surfaces are cleaned only with vinegar and an ozone air cleaning system, so no chemicals are used in the space. All the food scraps are composted for use in the garden.

There is no shortage of aperitivos and aperitifs to marvel at, either. The Terrace Bar is a loungey space with outdoor garden and cliffside tables that’s perfect for a sip and see that overlooks the coast and is one of Amalfi’s most iconic photo opportunities. Don’t forget to grab street food bites from the Italian three-wheeler that's been transformed into a food truck on your way out.

L’Alcova Bar, the newly opened cocktail bar, is perfect for after dinner digestif, with an evening band and beautiful interior design. In the afternoons, the head bartender hosts complimentary cocktail masterclasses too.

The hotel's private beach club (the only hotel in Positano with direct access to a private beach) is accessible via a scenic elevator ride down the cliffs. Here, guests can enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean and lounge on the sunbeds in a truly secluded haven where the world almost doesn’t exist. Or, opt for the freshwater pool on the terrace, with views overlooking the sea and the coastal village of Praiano. 

For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the spa at Il San Pietro offers a range of treatments designed to soothe and invigorate. The wellness center includes a fitness area (with both indoor and outdoor spaces), morning yoga and pilates and a sauna and steam room. Tennis enthusiasts will love one of the most scenic (and complimentary) courts around, overlooking the beautiful scapes of the coast.

When a bit of sightseeing is needed, the hotel offers a complimentary two-hour cruise along the coast, leaving each morning and serving drinks and a chance to take a dip in the ocean. Your party can also reserve ‘The Dreamer’ for a full day charter, taking you wherever your vacation-minded heart desires.

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Santa Caterina Hotel, for a dose of classic Italian delight in Amalfi

Santa Caterina Hotel is renowned for its classic Italian elegance and warm hospitality, making it perfect for travelers who appreciate timeless luxury and personalized service. The approach to Santa Caterina is marked by its grand entrance, a stately curved façade, framed by thriving gardens and overlooking the azure waters of the Amalfi Coast–hints at the opulence within.

The hotel exudes an old-world charm, grounded by marble floors and antique furnishings, embellished with a blend of classic Italian elements that feel sophisticated and comfortable. With an abundance of terraces and beautiful gardens filled with fragrant lemon trees and vibrant flowers, it’s a serene backdrop for the energy of the Amalfi Coast.

Rooms at Santa Caterina are elegantly appointed, featuring spacious living areas, private balconies with sea views and opulent bathrooms with marble fixtures. However, the jewel of the accommodations at Santa Caterina is Le Ville della Marchesa. Just steps from the main property, the exclusive feel of a set of suites, surrounded by a garden and a private swimming pool and solarium are the perfect place for a group of travelers. The main villa houses a kitchen and dining area for family meals. The concierge can organize private transfers, excursions, dinners, cooking classes and more. An on-site event planner is also available for party planning.

Back at the main property, you’ll enjoy dinner service at Glicine, the Michelin-starred restaurant. Chef Giuseppe Stanzione (or “Peppe”) will guide you through delicious tasting menus, or head straight to the decadent a la carte options. The uniqueness in many of the dishes is found in the Chef’s training around the world, where he found a love for Asian cuisine. Blue lobster in a Thai sauce or the lemon soufflé with citrus ice cream and cardamom sauce for something a little different from the typical fare on the coast.

Al Mare, the hotel's beachside restaurant perched on a stone terrace just steps from the beach club, offers a more casual dining option. The food is traditionally based in seafood and handmade pizzas cooked on the wood fired pizza oven. Nearby Il Grottino Bar, carved into the rock, is lit at night by tea lights overhead, creating a beautiful and breathtaking scene for a sunset cocktail. A bit higher up is the Bar La Terrazza, another all-day eatery with bistro-style food and a perfect spot for pre- or post-dinner drinks later in the evening.

Santa Caterina boasts a private beach club, accessible by an elevator that descends through the cliffs to the water's edge. It’s quite a sight to see, with a saltwater swimming pool that snakes around the cliff and all the food and drink you’d need for a day in the sun, living your best dolce vita lifestyle.

When you need to relax, head to the spa for the exclusive Oro di Amalfi lemon massage that rejuvenates the chakras. Or, enjoy the stone-walled gym with sea views to reinvigorate the body.

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Caruso Belmond, for historic charm in a design driven space in Ravello

Caruso Belmond stands out as if it were lifted from the pages of Architectural Digest, for its sense of wonder and picture-perfect settings, making it ideal for travelers who appreciate history, culture, and stunning views. Approaching Caruso Belmond is a journey through the charming streets of Ravello, culminating in the discovery of this grand property perched high above the coastline. The hotel's aged façade and beautiful gardens feel like a snapshot of timeless elegance that’s straight out of a fairy tale.

The hotel's infinity pool is legendary, offering what many consider the best views on the Amalfi Coast. Surrounded by an abundance of gardens and ancient stone walls, the pool area is a tranquil oasis where guests can relax and take in the stunning scenery. Inside, the hotel features elegant lounges, a library and a historic chapel, adding to its unique charm.

The rooms at Caruso Belmond are thoughtfully decorated with a blend of heritage pieces and modern amenities. Each room is unique, featuring airy spaces adorned with hand-picked antique furniture and four-poster beds. The Villa Margherita, a guest house on the estate, radiates Mediterranean charm and provides privacy with secluded suites for honeymooners or groups, surrounded by fragrant gardens. Guests of the villa will enjoy a butler service and dedicated chef.

Belvedere, the main restaurant, features dishes using traditional ingredients and has a separate vegan menu. They also have a large selection of local wines for pairing. The terrace of this restaurant will have you soaking up sights along with delicious Campanian-style cuisine from a chef who is native to the region.

Long and lazy lunches can be had at Caruso Grill, an al fresco restaurant that serves up indulgent dishes for any time of day and also services the pool bar. Post water time, head to Bar Caruso for more views and a set of gorgeous 18th-century frescoes in an atmospherically lit space that’ll make your local prosecco all the more enjoyable. Live music is featured until midnight as well.

The hotel has curated a couple of specialty dining experiences as well. The first, The Krug Table, is where you can dine on specialty dishes from the Chef, served atop an ornate 17th-century door-turned-dining-table and snugly in Emilio Pucci chairs al fresco overlooking the sea. This is a spot you’ll want to take off your shoes and feel the grass beneath your feet and enjoy a lavish dinner. The second, The Chef’s Table, where you can plan a personalized menu with the Chef and then head to his garden where a beautiful table for two awaits to dine the night away in a truly romantic fashion.

While Caruso Belmond doesn't have a beach club, you’ll take advantage of one of the nearby beach clubs during your boat days–the hotel has plenty of amenities to keep you busy on-site (did someone say “days by the legendary pool?”). The hotel's spa offers a range of treatments inspired by the region's natural beauty, including massages, facials and body treatments. The wellness center also includes an outdoor fitness room and sunrise yoga. The concierge can also book experiences like a walk through the Formichelle Path that connects nearby villages along routes of fragrant lemon trees, restored with the help of Caruso.

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In the end, you can’t go wrong…

Every one of these iconic properties on the Amalfi Coast offers a unique blend of luxury, elegance, and breathtaking beauty, making them perfect choices for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience in one of the world's most stunning destinations. Whether you're looking for romantic seclusion, historic charm, or refined sophistication, whatever fighter you choose will provide the perfect backdrop for an extraordinary stay on the Amalfi Coast.