Grand Hotel Parker’s

Located on the cliff above the Bay of Naples, the Grand Hotel Parker’s history dates back to 1870 when it was named the Hotel Tramontano Beaurivage. In its golden years, this hotel hosted literary legends like Stefan Zweig, Virginia Wolfe, and Oscar Wilde, among others. 

Grand interior furnishings in the hotel are a lovely reflection of the hotel’s finer days, but some furnishings simply feel dated and worn. The marble lobby is filled with 17th- and 19th-century paintings, bronze statues, and chandeliers hanging from arched ceilings. Rich draperies, antique furniture, jewelry on display, and an expansive library collection give the lobby lounge a grand ambience. 

This five-floor hotel -- with three elevators -- features lovely balconies on the exterior. The hotel was purchased in the late 19th century by scientist George Parker Bidder, who had a passion for literature. The legend goes that Parker, then a guest, was sleeping late in his room when the bailiff came to collect on the owner’s outstanding gambling debts. Parker eavesdropped and learned that the hotel was up for sale and quipped "put the hotel on my bill." The property has bore his name ever since. 

This hillside hotel is located on Corso Vittorio Emanuele, a street that divides the seaside area of Chiaia from Vomero. Travelers often stay in Naples on their way to the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, or Capri. The hotel overlooks the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius, and is also in walking distance of the city -- albeit the journey is steep with stairs. The funicular is 10 minutes on foot from the hotel and takes travelers to Vomero or the city center, where there are pizzerias, taverns, and shops. The Teatro di San Carlo, Bourbon Tunnel, and Castel Nuovo can be reached in 30 minutes by public transportation. Getting to the Naples National Archaeological Museum in the historic city center takes about 30 to 40 minutes by public transportation. It’s 20 minutes by car to the Naples International Airport.

Rooms vary in design and are located on floors that have Charles X, Louis XIV, or French Empire themes. The best rooms have sea views from balconies or terraces. Some rooms have subdued classic furnishings with carpeting or wooden floors and others are stately with antiques, wall moldings, and chandeliers. Overall, they are attractive -- but not as luxe as one may expect in such a renowned property.

Classic Rooms are the smallest option. Double Superior, Deluxe, and Executive rooms have sitting areas. Junior Suites and Suites offer two floors, living rooms, and lofted bedrooms. The two-level Presidential Suite has a living/dining room, two terraces, two bathrooms, a sitting area in the bedroom, and A whirlpool tub. Every room has air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, minibars, safes, digital newspapers, and free Wi-Fi. Upgraded rooms offer Nespresso coffeemakers, free beverages, and treats. Italian marble bathrooms have bidets, hairdryers, shower/tub combos, or separate showers and bathtubs.

The focal point of the Grand Hotel Parker’s property is the rooftop terrace that offers seating, sculptural antique lamps, and beautiful panoramic views. Connected to the terrace is George’s Restaurant, a homey dining room with breakfast, lunch, and dinner prepared under Chef Baciot. Bidder’s Bar is spacious, but sparsely furnished and offers live piano music. Also on the sixth floor is a charming cigar room with paintings decorating the walls and pitched ceiling. 

There is a nice range of other amenities, although they’re not fancy. A private parking garage on-site can hold up to 250 cars. Seven meeting rooms -- fitting up to 300 people -- are classically designed with lovely old-world touches, especially the congress hall, the Sala degli Speechi, and Ferdinando Hall. An outside entrance leads to the spa, which is open to the public, providing a hot tub, sauna, a hair/nail salon, three treatment rooms, and a gym that features modern weight and cardio equipment.