The location

After flying into Naples, a picturesque drive along the Gulf of Naples takes you to the hotel. The winding roads and impossibly beautiful views across the Amalfi Coast help to build the anticipation, like a teasing trailer of a Hollywood blockbuster. Casa Angelina occupies an enviable spot between Positano and Amalfi, an exclusive location away from the bustling tourist hot spots, yet still superbly positioned to allow convenient access to the areas many iconic attractions. 

A complementary shuttle bus runs from the hotel all day into Positano, the popular cliffside village on southern Italy's Amalfi Coast. But those looking for a more authentic and less tourist-populated experience can simply climb the stairs at the rear of the property to the centre of Praiano, a charming village filled with plenty of local restaurants and bars.   

The hotel

Casa Angelina walks the very fine line between minimalism and uber luxury. Often white on white interiors can feel stark and cold, but I found Casa Angelina had created a quiet, calm and serene environment. The exceptional private art collection can be found throughout the property and its grounds – a brightly coloured piece of Murano glassware strikes a perfect contrast to cool white walls, then there are the sculptures by Cuban artist Alfredo Sisabravo, oil paintings by Argentinian Patricia Valencia Cartsens, and many, many more.

My room was understatedly chic, with clean lines and accents of blue mirroring the turquoise water and sky outside. I even had the option to customise my in-room toiletries, with a choice of brands including Jo Malone, Dyptique, Aesop and L’Occitane. The property has just 37 rooms, so the service is warm and intimate. 

The food

Upon arrival, I was greeted by the hotel’s sorbet stand, serving delicious icy bites crafted in house using local flavours. The gourmet experiences didn’t stop there. Under the masterful guidance of Chef Leopoldo Elefante, the Michelin-starred restaurant Un Piano Nel Cielo is a must visit. As you may expect from the location, there’s a strong focus on fish and seafood, including Elefante’s signature dish ‘Il Dentice’.

If you want a one-on-one experience with Chef Leopoldo Elefante, you can book a private four-course live show meal on the rooftop terrace. There are also several all-day dining options such as the Seascape Restaurant, which offers an elegant simple menu showcasing the quality of local ingredients with a backdrop of the stunning coast.

The amenities

Those who like to maintain a healthy regime even on holiday will find options to satisfy even the most ardent fitness fans. Join the daily yoga and pilates classes hosted in the gardens or take advantage of the complimentary personal trainer in the very well-equipped gym. The surrounding mountains provide an excellent opportunity for any budding hikers. Take the famous ‘il Sentiero degli dei’ (the Path of The Gods) route, the Amalfi Coast’s most impressive hiking trail.

If relaxing poolside is more your vibe, then the very recognisable and Instagrammable lemon pergola terrace is the perfect spot to kick back, relax and take in the lemon-scented air. There’s also exclusive access for all guests to the La Gavitella Beach Club. Guests can enjoy a VIP area to relax or sunbathe, along with a selection of refreshing drinks and snacks, including sorbetto al limone di Praiano, ideal in the Italian sunshine. Casa Angelina also has two private boats which can be booked for private excursions with full crew and catering – a trip to Capri is a must for that full dolce vita experience. 

The bottom line

Despite its slick interiors, Casa Angelina manages to evoke a sense of warmth and comfort. The hotel is named after the owner’s late mother and there is an overriding feeling of the divine feminine throughout the property. Elegant design but never austere, white walls punctuated by glorious floor to ceiling windows drawing your eye to the blue ocean which can calm even the most frenetic of spirits. It is simply idyllic.