through the azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea towards Positano Bay, I inhaled
the warm breeze and gave gratitude for this blessing.
There, like a crown jewel amidst the steep rocky cliff of Italy’s Amalfi Coast laid
Positano, a place so enchantingly beautiful that its memory remains etched upon
my heart. Sun drenched homes built on a series of cliffside ledges cascaded
down to the shore in a panorama of pastel hues, ocher, and vermilion. The gold
and green mosaic dome of the legendary Church of Santa Maria Assunta glistened
underneath a crystal blue sky. Tropical flowers and lemon and olives groves
beautifully displayed in harmonious union. A landscape so romantic it has
inspired painters and photographers the world over.
Ever
since watching the romantic comedy “Only You” I have dreamed of visiting
Positano and its renowned hotel - Le Sirenuse - a Moorish Baroque 18th century
villa with spectacular views of the sea and the famed Costiera Amalfitana. Once
the summer residence of the Marchesi Serale family, members of which still
manage this luxury property, it is now the place where dreams are made. And on
this special day they happened to be mine.
The
moment you enter the glass doors of Le Sirenuse you are enveloped in a world of
understated elegance and serenity. The impeccable grounds boast white washed
walls, arched and vaulted ceilings and gleaming handmade ceramic tiles. Antique
paintings and prints framed in handsome mouldings hang on the walls, while a
stylish combination of traditional and contemporary furnishings decorate the
interiors and rooms.
A
handwritten welcome note, fresh fruit and nuts, and a bottle of Champagne
awaited our arrival. Frette bed linens of the finest quality were perfumed with
lavender. The bathroom was made of prestigious marbles with a Jacuzzi tub fit
for two. Luxurious Eau d'Italie bath and body products imbue their lovely scent
throughout. The terrace, with its glorious views, was the perfect place to sit,
sip Champagne and relish this moment.
The
pool, perhaps my favourite space on the exclusive grounds, was surrounded by
lemon trees and breathtaking vistas. Our days were spent relaxing poolside
enjoying our favourite Italian aperitivo “Aperol Spritz” and marvelling at the
beauty that surrounded us. This small corner of paradise was the perfect place
to bask in the final days of summer.
Everywhere
staff greeted us by name. This special touch provided a sense of being among
family and friends, and maybe it was in this spirit of home that on our first
evening we decided to dine on our terrace. Positano glowed under the night sky,
a vision so heavenly I wished time could stand still.
The
following evening we enjoyed fresh oysters and a glass of champagne millésimé
on the candlelit terrace of the Champagne & Oyster Bar. The soft music and
balmy summer night lulled me into a state of utter relaxation before heading
for dinner at La Sponda, the hotel’s Michelin star restaurant.
What
an unforgettable experience and atmosphere dinner provided! The space was lit
by four hundred candles as musicians played old Neapolitan love songs. We dined
on a selection of Mediterranean inspired dishes and sipped wine. It was one of
those rare moments when everything in the universe seemed to conspire to remind
me of the infinite beauty of life and love. It was a moment to be savoured
slowly, passionately, and with every ounce of my being.
John
Steinbeck said it best, “Positano bites deep. It is a dream place that isn't
quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real after you have
gone.” And as the memories of Positano permeate my soul, I am filled with
nothing but thankfulness for the unforgettable memories.
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