It’s easy to see why Il San Pietro is frequented by film stars and A-listers: it exudes retro glamour but is far from uptight – staff are warm and accommodating, and Italian hospitality shines.
Characterised by dramatic cliffs, pretty pastel towns and natural beauty, there’s something very romantic about The Amalfi Coast. A magnet for couples and honeymooners, Italy’s southern region is home to 13 picturesque cities and towns scattered along 55 kilometres of UNESCO coastline. The historic five-star hotel Il San Pietro is a luxury cliffside property above the Bay of Positano.
The Vibe
Just a five-minute drive from the centre of Positano, you can easily miss Il San Pietro on the winding (and precarious) road that leads up to it. Secluded by its sheer rock-face location and modest entrance, on arrival you’re greeted with traditionally dressed valet staff and panoramic views of the ocean.
As you make your way down a few flights of stairs leading to a hidden lift carved into the rocks – to take you into the lobby – you can’t help but marvel at every turn: this will be your first of many photo stops. Arriving at the lobby, you’re instantly welcomed with charm and character, and it leads straight onto an outdoor terrace, the perfect place to enjoy a welcome drink and gape at the views.
The Rooms
All rooms and suites are large and boast private terraces with loungers that are sea-facing. Each has its own unique style and personality, but all feature beautiful traditional tiles and vibrant colours that bring charm and style. Interior designer Fausta Gaetani revamped the rooms with design details you’ll want to recreate back home, from the decadent soft furnishings to the art on the walls. They have everything you would expect for this level of property: pampering extras like fluffy robes; slippers and skincare samples from the spa; plus complimentary beach flip flops and bags. The feeling of Italian luxury is hard to beat. Bathrooms are made from Italian marble – and some have sea views of the Mediterranean coast so magnificent you’ll find yourself pruning in the bath for as long as possible just to soak it all up.
The Food + Drink
ZASS is the hotel’s acclaimed Michelin-star restaurant, open for breakfast and dinner and the setting is unmatched. Set on an idyllic terrace overlooking the ocean, the stunning views make for magical dining. Breakfast is buffet style, but you can order your eggs – any style – à la carte. The hotel is good at catering to dietary requirements – there’s an entire section dedicated to gluten-free, plus vegan croissants, non-dairy yoghurts, fresh fruit and freshly baked bread.
For a more informal dining option, Bits&Bites is a charming three-wheel vehicle that’s been transformed into a small food truck, serving light bites and cocktails on the grand terrace. A lovely way to watch the sunset, or enjoy an apéritif and appetizer before heading into town.
The Beach Club
Situated at the bottom of an eye-watering 540 steps if you are feeling brave (or a secret lift carved into the rock) you’ll find Carlino, an informal beachside restaurant overlooking the ocean. Named after the hotel’s founder Carlino Cinque, al fresco dining is at its finest here with a relaxed informal setting, quite different from its Michelin-star counterpart. Freshly caught seafood dishes are the standout, alongside plates made with ingredients harvested from Il San Pietro’s gardens, which you’ll find winding down the cliff edge.
Il San Pietro is the only hotel in Positano with direct access to a private beach and it’s exclusive to hotel guests: you’ll find a plethora of sun loungers with direct access to the sea. There’s a bar opposite the sun deck too, so you can continue the five-star treatment whilst sunning yourself on the solarium.
The Little Extras
You’ll be whisked off to Il San Pietro in James Bond fashion now that the new Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport has opened. It’s just 15-minutes from the Marina di Arechi Port, where the hotel’s private boat will be waiting. If you’re visiting from May to mid-October, take the complimentary two-hour boat cruise along the coast, which departs every morning at 11am, except on Sundays. From it, take in the breathtaking Amalfi coastline with dips and drinks on board.
The To-Do List
Undoubtedly one of the world’s most scenic tennis courts, even those adverse to exercise will want to say they played tennis here. Complimentary for guests, the regulation-size court lies on the rock edge, surrounded by lush Mediterranean greenery and the pebble beach below. For those who would prefer to kick back with an Aperol in hand, the pool terrace is a delightful place to park yourself for the day, amongst the picture-perfect scenery. There’s a regular private shuttle service to Positano for guests too, so you can explore the pretty town at your leisure, without having to walk the winding narrow roads with shopping in tow.
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