Art Hotel Villa Fiorella

Removed from Sorrento's crowds, calm dominates this scenic property, where cliff-perched positioning affords magnificent sea and Capri Island panoramas, and settings amid lemon and olive groves are lovely. Fully renovated in 2016 for a sleek finish, layouts are designed to take in the view, as evident at the rooftop bar and restaurant terraces, glass-wrapped dining spaces, and decked loungers around a small, but swish infinity pool. Statement or abstract art in rooms and bar areas offset otherwise understated decor in patterned floor tiles, wood accents, and lots of white walls, although colorful sofas on the roof terrace jazz things up. Staying on-site for fabulous free breakfasts or quality sunset dining, guests choose this hotel as a Capri/Amalfi Coast base, although many are content simply taking in the view poolside. You'll see the odd family making the most of Duplex Suites, but in-room showers or heart motifs above beds earmark the hotel's romantic edge. Note that the hotel is only open April through October, though that's common for the region.

Hill settings here benefit from great views and tranquility, but being removed from town offerings isn't for everyone. Massa Lubrense's authentic delis and restaurants are a 10-minute downhill walk, but roads here have no sidewalk, and the terrain is uneven. A vehicle is recommended, although taxis are plentiful. It's a short drive (or 20-minute walk) to Marina Lobre, where restaurants overlook quaint fishing boats and a small beach, and both towns have bus stations serving Sorrento. Sorrento's Old Town, squares, and buzzing nightlife are a 20-minute drive, and trains from major cities run to Sorrento railway station. Positano and Capri are both under an hour away, by car or boat. Naples and its international airport are an 80-minute drive.

Standard Rooms face the pool, gardens, or restaurant, while upgraded units overlook the sea and Capri Island, and most guests agree it's worth the upgrade for water vistas. Rooms are large by Italian standards, and outfitted in chic, minimalist decor. They have solid oak floors, individual art pieces, and dominating whites in walls, furniture, and Frette bed linens. Muted tans in throw pillows and drapes are classy, and perspex or velours in desk chairs or seating areas add retro accents. bathrooms have rainfall showers or shower/tub combos, plus vessel sinks, monochrome photography trays topped with posh C.O. Bigelow toiletries, bidets, hairdryers, fluffy robes, and slippers.Phones, satellite-flat-screen TVs, minibars, bottled water, safes, room service, and AC come standard. No tea/coffee facilities are provided, though that's common for Italy. Upgraded rooms and suites have living areas, sea-facing balconies, in-room deep soaking tubs, or terrace whirlpools alongside loungers. Rooms can be fitted with cribs. 

Guests start the day in style here with free all-you-can-eat breakfasts, where continental buffet spreads accompany top-notch a la carte options. The restaurant's glass-wrapped walls feel exclusive, and views of deep-blue waters continue on outdoor terraces. Al fresco lounge seating is also available at the rooftop Sky Bar, where large sofas in pinks and aquas sit under umbrellas. Terrazza Fiorella restaurant serves refined Italian cuisine, and all-day drinks and snacks at the thatch-roofed pool bar. Though not the largest, the outdoor infinity pool is sleek with its fountain features, light tiling, dark loungers next to umbrellas, and fantastic sea views. Sadly, there are no whirlpool or spa, but the hotel has a gym. The indoor TV room's oversized armchairs and sculptures are stylish, but guests are here for the view outdoors. Free parking and Wi-Fi throughout round out amenities.