Hotel Luna Convento

One of the oldest hotels in Amalfi, the Hotel Luna Convento is housed in a 13th-century convent, whose characteristic cloister now functions as the hotel's lobby and bar. The hotel itself was founded in the 19th century and is the place where the Norwegian author Henrik Ibsen wrote his best-known play, “A Doll’s House.” The four-story white building with a terra-cotta roof features numerous Roman-style arches throughout, and it's packed with historic charm. Two elevators take guests to the cloister, the heart of the hotel and a quiet place where guests can relax. Large panels display famous people who have been guests here through the centuries. The historic nature and prime Amalfi location mean there's an undeniable amount of romance to the hotel, and not surprisingly most guests are couples.

The hotel is centrally located right on the Mediterranean Sea, along the main road through the Amalfi Coast. It's a short walk from the center of beautiful, historic Amalfi. The road is narrow and often a bit congested, but it’s one of the most panoramic points in the area, with views of the sea and the village. Expect a five-minute walk to the center of town. Hotel staffers are available to assist guests in crossing the busy road (it can be dangerous). The closest major airport is Naples International -- it's about an hour-and a-half drive from the hotel. The hotel will assist with transfers from the airport and train station for an additional cost.

Rooms feature Mediterranean decor, with lovely Vietri tile floors, rich drapery, high arched ceilings, and period furniture. Depending on the traveler, the look is either quaint and classic, or dated. Some have frescoes on the ceiling that add a bit of charm, and the abundance of white keeps things bright. Standard Rooms are fairly spartan, though, with almost nothing in the way of wall art or interesting textiles to perk things up. Overall, the rooms are spotless and well-maintained, but look a little Italian retro.  Amenities include minibars, safes, air-conditioning, and flat-screen TVs. The best part of these rooms is the furnished balcony, many of which have stunning views of the coast and sea. Suites add more space with a separate sitting area complete with a sofa and chairs, and balconies are larger. Some rooms don't have balconies, but views are still incredible from windows that open. Tiled bathrooms come with hairdryers, bidets, and the hotel's own brand of toiletries. They include either shower/tub combos or walk-in showers, some with rainfall showerheads. The tilework in some of the bathrooms, like the Standard Room that we visited, is quite impressive. 

For a small boutique hotel, the Luna Convento has quite a few features, including two restaurants, both with incredible views of the sea. La Veranda Restaurant serves regional fare in a lovely historic space in the convent. Tables are covered in pale yellow or blue tablecloths, and period details and rich draperies create an elegant, refined atmosphere. In nice weather, guests can dine out on the terrace, which provides even more amazing views. A substantial breakfast buffet is included in room rates -- options include pancakes, fresh fruit, and local pastries. The open-air Torre Saracena Restaurant in a Moorish stone tower also serves regional cuisine and overlooks the sea. It can be reserved for special events. The cozy bar has sofas and lounge chairs for seating in a room with a high arched ceiling and traditional artwork. Steep stone steps lead down to the private pool, which is perched on the hillside and offers unbelievable views. It's not a big space, but it's a relaxing place to hang out in the lounge chairs and take in the view; umbrellas provide shade. The charming courtyard is a nice place to hang out in the open air. It has lovely potted plants and flowers, and there are cushioned chairs for seating, as well as tables for drinks. A business desk in the cloister has a computer for guests to use and Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, though it can be spotty.