Hotel Of The Month
Palazzo Sasso
Via San Giovanni del Toro 28
84010 Ravello - Amalfi Coast
Italy
Tel + 39 089 81 81 81
Fax + 39 089 85 89 00
Prices from £220 per room per night inc breakfast
Palazzo Sasso has romance written all over it. It is complete understated magnificence. The entrance is well hidden in the back streets of picturesque Ravello. Blink and you will miss it. Once you enter the glass doorway the high ceilings, archways and marble floor invoke a feeling of decadence, glamour and five-star luxury that is rare to find.
Palazzo Sasso was originally built in the 12th Century and some of the original rooms remain, such as the entrance hall, the lobby (which was previously the chapel) and the restaurant cellar. The 'Sasso' family settled in Ravello in about 1710 and purchased the remains of Palazzo Sasso from the Bonito family and subsequently restored it. The area has long been a favourite amongst poets, writers and aristocracy. Gracing the rooms of Palazzo Sasso have been Roberto Rossellini, Ingrid Bergman and General Eisenhower. The current staff are far too discreet to divulge the current client list, although it is believed that many famous guests do stay here on occasion.
It isn't difficult to see why. The notable industry awards speak for themselves. But this place isn't about just about 'how many awards can we achieve', it is something else. The service is impeccable, the views are incredible and the staff are well-spoken, articulate and educated. Just like the clientele.
It's the discreet details that really make this place special. The Bvlgari amenities in the bathrooms, the bedtime turndown service and the restaurant manager who is always present at breakfast to take your 'champagne order.' The staff to guest ratio must be as high at 3:1, there is always someone there when you need them, no waiting around and no long queues. Just impeccable and prompt service.
The rooms are all different shapes and sizes. Most of them have wonderful views over the coastline, the rest have mountainside views (unless you opt for the 1 internal room which doesn't!). All rooms have sound systems, mini-bars and best of all Wi-Fi (not that you should be working while on holiday).
The on-site facilities are also fantastic. A fully equipped gymnasium, which boast wonderful views, a spa (with an impressive variety of massages and treatments) an outdoor pool and rooftop Jacuzzi whirlpools, where you can catch some rays. There is even a beautiful Japanese style garden on the bottom terrace, which is a great place for reading and relaxing.
The restaurant named 'Rosellini's is worth a special mention. It is awarded 2 Michelin stars and has been mentioned in many travel guides. With its passion and flair, this place is a real find.