Just a few years ago, when travelers arrived in Positano, the only sounds that could be distinguished were that of the writers and poets typewriters, the artists’ musical instruments and the low-key conversations of aristocratic families who had chosen to stay because of the quiet calm and natural beauty which had become to them a source of inspiration.
The lifestyle here is has changed drastically as thousands of travelers arrive each year from all over the world to visit the “diamond” of the Costiera
Amalfitana, making the hidden alleys and narrow passages seem even smaller and narrower .Positano started to become popular and very hip in the 50’s, especially after
publication of the John Steinbecks «Positano bites deep» in Harper’s Bazaar magazine in May 1953, where he wrote characteristically: «It is a dream place that isn’t quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real after you have gone».
Until today it remains one of the most enchanting destinations of Italy. A seductive, aristocratic village, perched on cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean, the famous Capri and Li Galli (Sirens Island), where the attractive seductresses “seduced” unsuspecting sailors with their songs!
The lifestyle here can be described as «dolce far niente» However a large part of this lifestyle now consists of Italian gastronomic delights accompanied by Limoncello, rides through the alleys on motorinis or the sea on river boats or even walks around the famous «Positano fashion style» boutiques for handmade sandals!
Le Sirenuse
The all time classic choice for staying in Positano is the historic Le Sirenuse, which opened its doors to visitors in 1951, when the Sersale family decided
to transform their country house into a small elegant hotel. It started with 8 rooms and a spectacular terrace overlooking the Island of the Sirens, from which the hotel bears its name. Fifty years later, now a five star hotel, it has not lost the ambience of an Italian family summer house. The 62 rooms in off white shades are decorated with antique furniture and all have handmade Vietri cobblestone floors and most have spacious terraces overlooking the bay of Positano. In the marble bathrooms one finds Eau D ‘Italie Cosmetics with scents inspired by the aromas of the coast Amalfi. Surrounded by lemon trees, works of art from the Sersale familys personal art collection and rare tropical plants, is the terrace and swimming pool, the Champagne and Oyster bar and the AVEDA spa, designed by Gae Aulenti.
The most enjoyable and memorable experience however, is the restaurant La Sponda lit with 400 candles! Renowned chef and the only chef who has been awarded 3 Michelin stars in Southern Italy, Alfonso Iaccarino and his son Ernesto prepare hedonistic Napolitan creative cuisine based on local ingredients and organic produce from their farm «La Peracciole» in Punta Campanella, which produces the best olive oil in Southern Italy. Try the lobster bruschetta, accompanied by a shot of bellini made from fresh peaches , and let the sommelier Vincenzo Galani recommend the ideal wine to accompany your meal!
Casa Angelina Lifestyle Hotel
The most popular choice of accommodation of modern design and lifestyle in Costiera Amalfitana, particularly in Praiano, is the hotel Casa Angelina, a personal dedication to the owner’s mother, whose name it bears. Even the logo is the same as her signature! The owners vision was to create a cozy Italian home filled with souvenirs and memorabilia from all his travels around the world.
The hotel boasts a team of young and friendly staff and puts great emphasis on Art.
The most exclusive hotel on the coast was renovated 2 years ago
and has been referred to as «The Delano Hotel of the Amalfi Coast».
Colorful Murano masterpieces light up the white on white design. In the rooms, the lighting and sanitary ware are designed by Philip Starck, the furniture is Gervasoni and Hugonet Paris whilst the rest boasts an ethnic mix ‘n’ match style. Exotic trees from Afghanistan, palm trees from Brazil, Argentinian art and Moroccan and Mexican influences around the pool.
The restaurant, Un Piano nel Cielo impressed us with amazing service, its delicious Italian recipes and breathtaking views! In the cigar room Posh, travelers enjoy local grappa, while just next door others “imitate” them in the … jaccuzi!
The glass elevator led us to a beach where one can go on excursions to Capri, Pompeii or Sorrento! By 2009, the owner intends to build on adjacent land , suites with private pools, a new spa and an overflowing swimming pool.
The most vivid memory of the Casa Angelina was the smell of cedar and not by chance for the owner has played with our sense of smell is linked directly memory, creating the Casa Angelina Cedro, room fragrance so the memories of a great holiday can be carried with us forever.
With gratitude T.
Suitehome 