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HOTEL CARUSO RAVELLO |
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RAVELLO, ITALY
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The Hotel Caruso Ravello reopened last June after a major refurbishment by its new owners, Orient-Express Hotels. Its quality matches that of the best in the group's portfolio. Prices are a notch higher than the local competition, but where else can you find suites this big on the Amalfi coast? Caruso's pedigree is impeccable: it first opened as a hotel in 1893 (attracting the Bloomsbury set, among others) and it still has Roman pillars, medieval walls, a 16th-century private chapel and 18th-century frescoes. The new, infinity-edged pool, 365 metres above the sea, is spectacular, and most of the 26 rooms and 26 suites have sea views. The majority also have private terraces, which is essential if you're spending this much money to stay in Ravello. There are two restaurants: the indoor Caruso, with a pretty patio, and the Belvedere, which is outside and preferable for dinner. Both serve well-practised Italian staples, including delectably fresh seafood, light salads and pastas. The service is about as good as it gets for a new hotel: the maître d' was poached from the Palace Hotel Gstaad, the concierge from the Park Hyatt Milan. The decor is nothing special lots of marble and classic etchings but with such soul-stirring views it doesn't need to be.
WHEN TO GO
In the spring, when Caruso reopens after the annual winter shutdown.
ROOM TO BOOK
The Jackie O Suite (from 1,419 euros), with its triple-arched window and small rooftop pool.
CONTACT
Piazza San Giovanni del Toro 2, Ravello, Italy (00 39 089 858801; www.hotelcaruso.com).
COST
Doubles from 743 euros
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