From its location high on a cliff in Positano, Le Sirenuse offers breathtaking views over the Tyrrhenian sea. John Steinbeck described this legendary hotel as “an old family house converted into a first-class hotel, spotless and cool, with grape arbours over its outside dining rooms”. Opened in 1951 and despite major refurbishment projects since, it retains the true authentic charm of that private family home, an 18th century villa, while offering impeccable and warm hospitality. In that respect, little has really changed at the hotel now run by Antonio Sersale who, along with his charming wife Carla, favours informal but stylish attire. Opposite the hotel, there is Carla Sersale’s Emporio Sirenuse, which offers her own creations—a line of airy and colourful caftans and swimwear for men and women—along with a stylish selection of clothes, accessories and exclusive homeware and Venetian glass by other designers and pieces designed in collaboration with some of them. Carla was kind enough to invite me to the wonderful Champagne & Oyster Bar, which overlooks Positano, where I enjoyed mouth-watering sashimi and grilled and fried Mediterranean specialties. After that we dined in the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant La Sponda. Its new executive chef Gennaro Russo, just 29 years old and appointed this spring, prepared an exquisite spaghetti from gragnano with squid, followed by a perfect baked wild sea bass with crunchy vegetables. What more can you wish for? Marvellous company and exquisite food. Now I understand why this unique and unforgettable property, a member of Leading Hotels of the World, is one of the most sublime hotels in the world.

Copyright 2016 Mart Engelen