Albergo Punta Regina

Albergo Punta Regina is housed in an old whitewashed building covered in creepers of bougainvillea, located on a typically narrow Positano street -- one of the few open to traffic. The interiors are elegant and decorated in a classic style, with white walls, arched doorways, traditional oak furniture, and terra-cotta tile floors highlighted with colorful motifs made of majolica glazed tiles. The lobby area is dominated by an attractive wooden reception counter, while several white and turquoise sofas offer seating for arriving guests. Gilded sconces and oil paintings depicting local landscapes decorate the walls, while elegant lamps provide soft lighting. Most of the guests who choose to stay here are couples visiting Positano as leisure travelers. 

Albergo Punta Regina is located on one of Positano's few narrow streets that's accessible by car. The hotel is perched on a cliff above the town, about mid-way up the hill from the beaches, and just a five-minute walk to the center of town. Guests can reach the beach in 10 minutes by taking the steps leading down the cliff. A number of restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars are within walking distance. The Sirenuse islands and the tower of Fornillo perched on the rock-face are visible from the hotel's terrace and balconies. The ferry terminal is an 11-minute walk away, and from here the island of Capri is about 50 minutes away on the ferry, Amalfi is 20 minutes away, and Salerno can be reached in one hour and 15 minutes. The closest railway station is in Sorrento, a 40-minute drive away, and other popular tourist destinations include Ravello and Pompei, both about an hour's drive. Naples International Airport can be reached in about an hour and 15 minutes.

Guest rooms are spacious and bright thanks to large French doors and pleasant decor in a muted color palette. Rooms are classically styled, but may not appeal to all tastes and some might find the decor a bit dated. Antique-style furniture and terra-cotta floors with colorful majolica glazed tiles are paired with elegant details like fancy lamps, gilded mirrors and sconces, and framed needlepoint pictures. There are a few signs of wear and tear in some rooms, like scratched furniture or stained marble countertops in the bathroom. Many of the rooms have separate seating areas, or include sofas or loveseats. Other amenities include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, stocked minibars, free Wi-Fi, and work desks. All rooms also have private balconies or terraces with stunning views of the sea and surrounding mountains, though travelers should note that Standard Rooms on the second floor are street-facing and do not offer sea views. These rooms are due to be renovated in 2017. The bathrooms feature black or white marble sinks and bright tiling in turquoise and pink. Some rooms have shower/tub combos with rainfall showerheads, while others are equipped with walk-in showers. The Deluxe Special Rooms also have hot tubs -- located either in the bathroom, or outdoors on the balcony. These rooms can sleep up to four people, making them suitable for families. 

Being a small family-run hotel, Albergo Punta Regina offers few extra features. The outdoor infinity pool is the highlight here, displaying spectacular sea and cliff views. There are plenty of sun loungers to soak up the sun and bask in the gorgeous vistas. Free beach towels are available from reception. A continental-style breakfast buffet is included in room rates and served in a charming breakfast room or alfresco on the terrace. Breakfast includes a selection of bread, pastries, cheese, meats, cereals, fruit, juice, and yogurt. There is no full restaurant, but there is a bar service which serves cocktails as well as light lunch items like sandwiches, simple cold meals, and snacks, plus room service is available. 

Guests arriving by car will find that parking is a challenge in Positano, but there are spots available in the on-site garage that can be reserved in advance and are subject to an extra fee. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel (but the connection can be patchy), and other services available include laundry and luggage storage. Small pets are welcome.