Breathtaking views over azure seas from this historic Ravello villa for 16, with exquisite terraced gardens, a pool and hot tub

Get ready to be wowed at Villa Pittoresca, an extraordinary historic villa set on Ravello’s hillside. Best known for its magnificent gardens and summer festival, Ravello is one of the jewels of the Amalfi Coast, characterised by medieval streets and ancient stone pathways, and, above all, its simply enchanting sea views.

Nearby, the towns of Amalfi and Positano attract visitors from all around the world, but head for the smaller towns of Praiano, Atrani and Vietri sul Mare, all easily accessible from Ravello, and you’ll experience a very different side to the Amalfi Coast. Alternatively, explore the area by way of the scenic walking trail between Ravello and Amalfi, and the ‘Sentiero dei Limoni’, a spectacular walk through the lemon groves between Minori and Maiori.

Staying at Villa Pittoresca feels a little like staying in your own private hotel, one in which contemporary design and comfort has been thoughtfully woven into the traditional charm of the villa. Extending over 190m², much of the villa’s beauty lies in its enchanting 5,000m of walkways, twisting paths, flights of steps, lawns and hideaway terraces, awash with dazzling bougainvillea and infused with the scent of lemons. Start the day with a sumptuous catered breakfast on the charming main terrace on the ground floor, where majolica tiled tables and umbrellas sit amidst flower-filled terracotta pots and scented Mediterranean vegetation. Other outdoor facilities include a large covered BBQ area.

On higher terraces, a captivating infinity pool and hot tub are tucked away amidst the greenery, each providing idyllic spots to relax and drink in the view. But for those seeking the ultimate wellbeing treat, the villa has its own natural cave where you can immerse yourself in a cold water plunge pool before stretching out in the warmth of the sun.

Just a few steps up from the outdoor dining terrace, the spacious kitchen in the main villa is equipped with everything you need for large scale catering including a larder, dishwashers, professional oven, a large hob, double sink and ample cupboard space. The dining area alongside the kitchen is a good alternative during cooler evenings or in the winter months.

However, when you’re looking for a little bit of indulgence, a concierge service is on hand to organise in-villa catering, cooking and pizza classes, as well as a laundry service, massages and gastronomic experiences such as wine and olive oil tasting.

BEDROOMS & BATHROOMS

The property has 4 mini apartments, set on different levels. Each has a kitchenette, and is furnished in a traditional style, with painted Vietri ceramics and antique furniture. The villa also has an indoor space furnished with exercise mats for yoga and other activities.

From the main entrance, a flight of 20 steps leads down to the first set of 2 mini apartments (1 and 2) on the upper floor.

Apartment 1 (bedrooms 1 and 2): With small living room with kitchenette, TV, air conditioning and a double sofa bed. The living room provides access to bedroom 1, which has a double bed, TV, window with a sea view, and ensuite bathroom with shower; and to bedroom 2 which has a window that overlooks the entrance and sea view, TV, double bed and an ensuite bathroom with shower.

Sleeps 6

Apartment 2 (bedrooms 3 and 4): With small living room with kitchenette, TV, air conditioning and a double sofa bed. The living room provides access to bedroom 3, which has a double bed, TV, and a private balcony with sea view, and ensuite bathroom with shower; and to bedroom 4 which has a private balcony with sea view, TV, double bed and a bathroom with shower which is accessed from the living room.

Sleeps 6

Floor -1 (accessed via an external flight of 16 steps down from the upper floor)

Apartment 3 (bedrooms 5 and 6): With living room with kitchenette, TV and air conditioning. Access from the living room to bedroom 5 which has a double bed, small window (no view) and a bathroom with shower. Bedroom 6 is also accessed from the living room, and has a double bed, TV, air conditioning, window with sea view and en suite bathroom.

Sleeps 4

Floor -2 (accessed via an external flight of 16 steps down from floor -1) is home to the professional kitchen and dining area.

Superb Amalfi Coast villa with expansive gardens and hotel-style facilities