On our Italian road trip we were also staying on the world famous Amalfi coast - this was actually going to be my first time in this picturesque area and I had so much to see but I was equally excited about where I was going to be staying as the hotels I had been invited to see had always been on my ‘must visit’ list.
Only an hour from Naples airport and 3.5 hours from PUGLIA we arrived at the popular coastal road.
Driving into the Amalfi Coast everyone told me to be careful on the narrow windy roads and they were right!
The coast line is so pretty but the roads are so narrow and some of the drivers go so fast that your heart misses a beat multiple times - plus those scooter drivers have no fear darting in and out of traffic - makes the driving in Dubai seem super safe and rather slow!
I was following google maps and it tells me the hotel is coming up on my right but all I see is a small road with a stunning bronze sculpture of two people at the entrance. I take a sharp right, drive down the steep path towards the ocean and there in front of me we are greeted by the hotel staff… welcome to Casa Angelina!
Casa Angelina is a Leading Hotels of the World property, which to be honest is all one needs to know because it certainly lives up to that lofty billing. Tucked away in Praiano on the Amalfi coast this is a little hidden gem that is simply hard to describe. Not only does it provide awe-inspiring views of Positano right in front of you and only 10 mins drive from the hotel but also views of the island of Capri, it makes you think you’ve found paradise on earth.
The hotel has modern aesthetics with white washed contemporary design, clean lines and oozes elegance and breathtaking boldness as it cascades down many levels of a rock face while having as a canvas the brilliant, shimmering blue of the Mediterranean.
In the lobby area is a grand piano, a cocktail bar and white sofas with lots of cushions of thick bouncy cushions that are complete with large coffee table books on Italy which simply invites you to relax with an aperitif and enjoy the incredible view right in front of you gazing the large windows.
All around the property including outdoors you will find part of the hotel owners private collection of stunning glass sculptures made from Murano glass which provides that pop of color against the vivid beauty of the surrounding area.
Each level of the hotel offers something so unique from the roof top dining, beautiful well manicured gardens, a swimming pool and deck area complete with lemon trees, the well-being floor which has the spa, gym and indoor swimming pool and then the basement of the property provides direct beach access … well 250 steps down to the beach called One Fire Beach.
All the guest rooms and the fine dining restaurant can be found on the higher floors in order to provide you with front row seats of the most spectacular views of Positano and Capri.
Rooms
The property has a selection of rooms types all with wonderful ocean views and the stunning all white ascetic is extremely comfortable and fresh. With crisp white sheets and array of pillows the bed is surely inviting!
We had a terrace room which offers just that - a 30’square meter terrace with sun loungers and a dining area - perfect for people who enjoy sun bathing and taking in the incredible views.
The room comes with all modern amenities - Bang & Olfson TV, iPad, docking station and touch screen lighting. I can always tell a great room by the hair dryer brand each room has and on this Italian road trip I have been pleasantly surprised by the excellent choices. Casa Angelina had a Dyson hair dryer!
Service
I am a sucker for excellent service and being in the hospitality industry I don’t believe there’s any excuse for any type of divergence.
The staff at Casa Angelina went above and beyond to provide a high level of service to every guest. From their warm hospitality, great knowledge, nothing was too much; their approach was world class and their genuine happiness to assist right filtered through the entire team.
Dining
Breakfast and dinner is served on the roof top.
Table reservations are mandatory - in fact most of The Amalfi Coast is table reservation so book in advance to avoid disappointment
Location
The world famous Positano is located only 10 minutes away from Praiano and the hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service via their fleet of Mercedes cars.
Personally I preferred not staying in Positano as it’s so busy and Casa Angelina offers a more chic experience away from tourists and set in such beautiful grounds. You get the best of both worlds, the bustle of beautiful Positano and the elegant luxury of Casa Angelina.
It’s the little things!
Once we checked out of the hotel we got into our hire car and noticed that it had be cleaned inside and out with fresh water for our drive - a beautiful touch!
Prior to arrival at Casa Angeline you will receive an email for your preferences in order to make your stay more comfortable. You can chose from a range of pillows along with your choice of skin care range - Jo Malone, L’ Occitane.
A couple of my top tips while visiting Positano.
Away from the crowds yet over looking Positano as you sit on the roadside is Bruno’s – perfect for a yummy pasta – very reasonably priced and very authentic.
Positano is famous for its lemons so you cant visit and not have a lemon ice cream or lemon slush. You will find the stands all through the winding streets down to the beach
Buy a pair of leather custom made sandals or handbag – add a cute strap
Take a boat to Capri. You can book a private boat at the hotel. Don’t go on the ferry it’s super packed. I didn’t manage to go to Capri this time but I will next time! Casa Angelina also has their own boat which can be booked in advance for day charters. If you charter a boat be sure to experience the famous Blue Grotto or the thermal baths on the island of Ischia
If you fancy a day on the beach in amongst the vibrant town of Positano then go to the instagramable Spiaggia Grand Beach – rent chairs and umbrella’s for Euro 25 per day.
If you love hiking then you must try The Path of the Gods! Its an easy hike around 7km, but will take some time, the views are sure to wow you!
Rent a scooter – right next door to Casa Angelina is a church where there is a small scooter rental store. Be careful drivers can be crazy but if off season im sure its pretty amazing to ride right down the coast or up to Ravello.
Watch the sunset while having drinks at Franco’s - opens at 4pm daily and only serves drinks; its a cute spot all blue and white interior with a large lemon tree as the centre piece with views of the ocean.
The aperol spritz was amazing!
Thank you Casa Angelina for such a beautiful stay along with the surprise birthday cake and champagne to celebrate my mum!! Just another wonderful touch and impeccable service!
Room Tour - https://www.instagram.com/reel/CdP_qOoIWVz/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
To book your stay please contact:
Danielle@uniquefamilytravels.com
