The Amalfi Coast: Where To Stay
As summer gives way to autumn many people put holiday plans on hold. Christmas feels like a long way off, but given the modern world’s ant hill-like busyness we all know it will be upon us before we know it. Nevertheless, this is a great time of year to get away and catch some last rays of sun before the darkness of winter takes hold of Britain.
A perennial favourite, the Amalfi Coast is the perfect answer to the question of ‘where to go in September’. Thanks to its position on the Sorrentine Peninsula in southern Italy, this region is blessed with fantastic weather through to October (and beyond), and is only a relatively short flight from the U.K., putting it within reach for a long weekend if days are tight.
Once there it doesn’t take long to realise quite how enchanting the place is. Yes, there are plenty of tourist traps, and your average Americano is more expensive than many other parts of Italy. But by sidestepping the well-trodden path it’s possible to land yourself on a seemingly endless, near-deserted beach, get lost in well-preserved nature reserves, and while away an afternoon in a postcard-perfect village, the likes of which are almost cliched in terms of defining this tip of the Mediterranean. Tempted? You should be. Here are our top recommendations for villa rentals in the area, all of which epitomise luxury and find themselves surrounded by natural beauty.
Villa Parasole, Positano, Campania (pictured)
8 bedrooms
From £18,207 per week
With jaw-dropping interiors- think frescos in the bedroom and a rustic, almost cave-like kitchen and dining room- along with a striking position overlooking both the charming village of Positano and the coast itself, Villa Parasole is rightly considered one of the most prestigious properties on the Amalfi. Complete with extensive grounds including a swimming pool with views over the Mediterranean, this really is the place to stay.
Il Nido di Capri, Campania
4 bedrooms
From £11,402 per week
People dream of waking up to find themselves staring over the water at the Rocks of Capri, which means- even if they don’t know it yet- that people dream of staying at Il Nido di Capri. Stunning views aside, you’re just a short walk from the village of Capri, but with your own pool (and accompanying bar), beautiful sun terrace and lush gardens, not to mention warm and inviting interiors, there’s every chance you won’t venture further than the grounds.
L’Exclusiva
7 bedrooms
From £5,115 per week
If traditional aesthetics are for you then L’Exclusiva is definitely one to consider. Situated in the thick of fragrant pine woodlands on the Cilento coastline, picture yourself lazing outside this charming farmhouse-style residence enjoying al fresco food, taking a dip in the pool, or relaxing on the nearby beach- which you have private access to. There are Roman ruins to explore nearby, incredible eateries to be discovered, and even a little slice of Greece in the town of Paestum, which boasts imposing Doric temples. Oh, and the house itself isn’t bad, either, with tastefully decorated rooms, a huge living and dining area, and your own delightfulfully picturesque private harbour.
