Hotel Santa Caterina, Amalfi

While I was still speechless by the location and the fact that Hotel Santa Caterina was literally built on the edge of the cliff, the door of my car opened and I heard a gentle voice saying “Bienvenuti at Santa Caterina”.

Entering the lobby the polite receptionist led me towards the big terrace where looking down I saw the amazing beach club with the swimming pool. I couldn’t wait any longer to dive in as the sun was burning even though it was late October.

Opened in 1904 as a humble guest house the Hotel Santa Caterina has since transformed into one of the Amalfi Coast’s oldest grand hotels and a personal expression of local style. Interiors are embellished with 19th century antiques and hand-painted ceramic tiles.

The magnificent exteriors with centuries-old gardens and beautiful areas to sit and relax while enjoying the sweeping views of the Salerno bay.

Enjoy an afternoon cocktail or a glass of champaign on the terrace and let the scenery blow you away.

Elevators cut into the rocks sweep you to the private beach club. What more could one ask but this beautiful area by the crystal clear sea, a heated swimming pool with salt water and the breathtaking view of the Amalfi. All you have seen in the photos of the classic Amalfi can be found in this hotel.

The rooms feature classic Italian interiors, Mediterranean architecture and the style of the villas of Amalfi. Spacious and filled with light, with floors in antique hand painted majolica, beautiful bathrooms and balconies with sitting area and view over the sea of Amalfi.

In the morning the scenery from the big main terrace was simply magical. Having breakfast with such a beautiful view is unforgettable. The breakfast was delicious with a big buffet and food variety made with traditional italian products. I couldn’t resist to the home made gelato even though I was full from all that tasty breakfast.

Having the glorious scenery of the hotel in my mind and what I believe that the Amalfi experience should be, Santa Caterina is the epitome of all that.