THE FACTS ABOUT RAVELLO

Italy

Nowhere in Italy is more romantic than Ravello, with its dramatic views of the Amalfi coast. Its hotels are usually fully booked in July and August; but the Hotel Caruso, a new Orient-Express property, has only just opened its doors and is therefore still relatively unknown, even to the cognoscenti. Located at Ravello's highest point, the hotel has 54 rooms, among them eight suites and 28 junior suits, most with sea views. Although the spa is yet open, the swimming pool is spectacular, as is the 360-degree view from the Belvedere restaurant, set in the gardens. Sixty kilometres south of Naples, Ravello has winding roads lined with flowers, wonderful churches and private villas, making it a glorious location for a summer holiday. CONTACT Hotel Caruso (00 39 01 852 67898; www.hotelcaruso.com). Doubles from 437 euros