Villa Elario Italy

When travelling merchants returned from the East with a wealth of exotic spices and precious woods they needed suitably lavish homes from which to discuss business and watch their ships coming in from sea. Many chose Positano and so Villa Elario was born, built in 1741 and restored in 2013, it remains one of the finest landmark constructions of the entire Amalfi coast.
The rapid prosperity of the town in the 17th and 18th century meant the most celebrated artists of the time were enlisted to paint and decorate the grand houses that sprung up across the hillside. The gorgeous painted ceilings, intricate tiling and sparkling chandeliers remain to give the house an air of antiquity and sophistication. Now though, guests also enjoy the latest in contemporary technology, with an impeccably trained team of staff on hand eight hours a day.
The villa is perched at the highest point on the steep slopes of the town, with the balcony, dining areas and swimming pool appearing to sit directly above the stacked houses and the blue sea that extends into the horizon. The houses are only connected by steep old stone stairs, meaning no gabbling clusters of tourists, or clunking road traffic; just the reassuring sound of the tide gently melting into the pebbled shore.
Positano achieved fame among artists and musicians in the second half of twentieth century, particularly after John Steinbeck visited in 1953, writing in Harper’s Bazaar: “Positano bites deep. It is a dream place that isn’t quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real after you have gone.” These poignant words ring just as true today, as you will see when falling for the charms of Villa Elario; a property that offers a unique experience of luxury like no other in the world.Villa Elario is perched on the highest point of Positano, almost directly above the sea. From here, guests are rewarded with magnificent views of the coast, the center of Positano, and the islands of Galli.
At Villa Elario you are situated just 15 minutes walk from the beach, and a healthy 150 steps from the road. These trips can of course be aided with the services of a luggage porter.
Positano lives as cluster of colorful cottages and steep, cobbled lanes clinging to the rocky coast. A maze of little alleys, stairways and squares which suddenly opens up to reveal the shimmering turquoise sea.
From the peaceful hills to the buzzing beach, Positano is one of the most beautiful towns in the whole of Italy, at its best when viewed from the terraces of Villa Elario.
In the center of Positano, this is, as the name suggests, the biggest beach in town. It’s the most glamorous too: home to numerous bars, restaurants and beach clubs.
You can walk to Fornillo from Positano’s Spiaggia Grande, via the “Lovers’ Walk”. Nestled in a bay, this little beach is surprisingly quiet and peaceful.
Positano’s rocky coastline is home to dozens of hidden beaches, which can only be reached from the sea. If you want to explore them, we’ll arrange a boat for you.
Without a doubt, the best way to explore Italy’s Amalfi coast is by boat; better still by “gozzo”, the traditional boat used by the area’s fishermen.
Our concierge will be happy to organize excursions inclusive of visits to the best beach clubs and restaurants in the area, and, for those keen to sail a little farther afield, the nearby island of Capri.
Amalfi – 18 kmRavello – 25 kmPompei – 35 kmCapri – 20 minutes by boat- A dedicated team of staff composed of a chef, concierge and maid are available 8 hours per day, Continental breakfasts are served each morning.- Staff can be enlisted individually for extra hours at a rate of €25.00 per hour.- Personal underwear washing included, other clothes not included, € 25.00 per load