Villa Treville: The Charm of a Storied Gem in Positano

Illustrious heritage in the heart of the Amalfi Coast

Arriving at Villa Treville feels like stepping into a fairytale. The villa’s grand entrance is a symphony of Mediterranean architecture typically found on the coast, with terracotta roofs, whitewashed walls and cascading bougainvillea. The stone pathway leading up to the property is lined with lemon trees, their scent mingling with the salty sea breeze. 

The spaces within Villa Treville exude the perfect mix of opulence and comfort. The expansive terrace, with its plush lounge chairs and infinity pool, offers a perfect spot for soaking in the sun while gazing at the mesmerizing coastline. Heading down to the waterfront are lush gardens, interspersed with secret pathways and hidden nooks as you make your way to the private sunbathing platform with steps into the sea.

The interiors are peppered with art pieces and artifacts that tell the story of this villa’s charming past. The villa was once the residence of the famed Italian director Franco Zeffirelli. Known for his visually stunning films and operatic productions, Zeffirelli infused the space with his artistic flair and personal touch. He acquired the property in the 1960s and made it his home for several decades. During his time there, the villa became a gathering place for a vibrant mix of luminaries–Maria Callas, Laurence Olivier, and Leonard Bernstein, just to name a few. When he sold the property, he left behind all his curiosities and artwork, which can be found in the hotel today.

Villa Treville continues to honor Zeffirelli's vision, a mix of luxury and local heritage that we certainly can’t get enough of.

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Classic Italian design meets villa living

Villa Treville offers a selection of exquisitely designed suites, ranging from one to four bedrooms as well as villas, each individually decorated with unique character and charm. The design is definitively artistic, with a mix of patterns and textures that reflect the seascapes out your window. The art and personal artifacts adorning the walls are a layer of historical richness and intrigue.

The architecture is classic Italy, with vaulted ceilings, hand-painted ceramic tiles and terracotta floors. Large windows and French doors open to private terraces or balconies (many with outdoor baths and plunge pools), giving the natural light a chance to flood the rooms and you the opportunity to take in the breathtaking views of the sea and the villa's lush gardens.

The suites of Villa TreVille are, of course, the star of the show. The larger bedroom options all feature en suite bathrooms and those beautifully furnished bedrooms, all centered around plush living and dining areas. Private terraces often include outdoor living and dining, along with private plunge pools to soak up the Amalfi sun.

For those traveling in smaller groups, we recommend the Zeffirelli Suite, a spacious option with four independent bedrooms, each with ensuite bathrooms, a private living and dining space to share along with a heated (and secluded) plunge pool on the (one of many) outdoor terrace. The suite is inspired by the artistic heritage of Franco Zeffirelli and is adorned with gold and turquoise hues set against unique furniture and antique pieces. Larger groups will enjoy the five or eight bedroom options of the Villa Maura, both of which are currently being revamped for a 2025 opening.

The team at Villa TreVille has also had a bit of fun with some very special suites in particular. The Giulietta & Romeo Suite, is a (you guessed it) romantic suite offering breathtaking views of the sea and Positano. It’s painted in passionate reds and that, combined with the marble bathrooms and separate living area, create a very romantic feel that gets our heart fluttering.

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Feasting on fresh local produce…with a view

The dining options at Villa TreVille are not only delicious but offer a sense of relaxed elegance that will lull you into sunny days and Aperol-soaked nights. The main restaurant, Maestro’s, is named in honor of Franco Zeffirelli. The dishes are crafted with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, including seafood caught straight from the nearby Tyrrhenian Sea and organic vegetables and herbs from the villa’s own garden. The terrace of the restaurant has the most gorgeous panoramic views of Positano–your head will be spinning.

During the day, you can enjoy seaside bites curated by Maestro’s kitchen down On the Rocks, the private lounging space on the ocean. From here, you can also catch one of the private transfers towards Positano, including the Laurito Beach Club (formerly the Treville Beach Club), for a day of sun and spritzes.

Bianca Bar, back at the hotel, will be your go-to for an afternoon cocktail (post beach club, of course) or pre-dinner drinks. This Moorish-inspired space is bathed in white and furnished with filigree-adorned pieces and shared loungey seating. Out on the terrace, a mix of colorful decor, situated underneath a stunning pergola, is the perfect place for sunset.

For those seeking an even more exclusive dining experience, Villa Treville offers private dining options that can be tailored to your preferences. Whether it’s a romantic dinner on your private terrace, a family celebration in one of the villa’s intimate dining rooms, or a special event in the lush gardens, the culinary team at Villa Treville will create a bespoke menu and provide impeccable service to make your occasion truly unforgettable.

A reason to work out on vacation

When a day of indoor relaxation is needed, head to La Traviata Spa. Nestled in the gardens and bathed in beautiful sunlight, you’ll enjoy an array of treatments that (and we must say, thankfully) feature Dr. Barbara Sturm products. For those looking for a more private experience, the therapists will come to your room.

While we generally suggest the beach instead of the buff, we must recommend the Treville Positano gym situated on the grounds. It’s outdoors (yes, outdoors), along the seaside and packed with any of the equipment you may need. A treadmill run (or run/walk…or walk) with an ocean breeze will suddenly become an unforgettable part of your trip. You can also book yoga and Pilates sessions on the terrace.

As the sun sets over the Mediterranean, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, you’ll find yourself captivated by the enchanting beauty of Villa Treville. This gem in Positano is a nod to the timeless allure of the Amalfi Coast, promising a stay that is as memorable as it is luxurious.

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