This article was written by J. Q. Louise. Photography courtesy of Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel.
Perched over the Mediterranean, as it has been for hundreds of years, the Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel is a place to both get away from it all and soak up everything the region has to offer.
This 13th-century Capuchin convent that’s been revitalized by Anantara Hotels offers the perfect balance of accessibility with the secluded charm of a monastic retreat built into the cliffs of the stunning Italian coastline.
The exterior’s original materials and colors have been thoughtfully maintained, while the interior design echoes the convent’s heritage and the grounded, artisanal lives of its initial inhabitants. Natural materials such as wood, leather, and natural fibers are artfully combined with chic details, creating an ambiance of opulent ease.
The hotel’s guestrooms and suites, most of which originally served as monks’ quarters, feature details like original tiles, vaulted ceilings, and limewashed walls. These historic details are accented by rich textiles, sculptural furniture, local art, and plenty of the modern amenities that you would expect at the best five-star hotels.
The Suite Del Priore and the Suite Dell’Eremita stand out, offering unique experiences, such as frescoes above the beds and a private lemon grove. But what stands out most in all the rooms are the sweeping ocean views. This is one of those resorts where you will be hard-pressed to find a reason to shut the balcony door, as you will want to take in as much of that Mediterranean breeze as possible throughout your stay.
One of the best parts of the Anantara brand is its spa program. Anantara Spas are award-winning all over the world. And they have brought that philosophy and excellence to Amalfi. Set in a travertine-clad space with sea views, the spa offers guests treatments like the signature Convento Di Amalfi Massage, which features lemon essence and citrus oils from the ultra-luxe Valmont line of products to help restore balance and well-being as you gaze out over the Mediterranean. The spa is set over 125 square meters of space, featuring a hammam, saunas, steam rooms, two couples rooms, and areas dedicated to relaxation.
Beyond the spa’s walls, the dedication to wellness continues outdoors with an alfresco fitness center and a stunning cliffside swimming pool.
Culinary experiences at the Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel are truly exceptional. The signature restaurant, Dei Cappucinni, led by Executive Chef Claudio Lanuto, offers a “convent kitchen” concept where dishes are prepared with ingredients from the property’s onsite garden. And for a more casual option, La Locanda della Canonica Pizzeria by Gino Sorbillo presents an array of signature pizzas, celebrating local ingredients and favors. From the moment you sit down for breakfast in the morning to the moment you sip a nightcap at the lobby bar, your palate will be delighted by the local flavors and ingredients put in front of you.
Anantara’s commitment to offering authentic local experiences is evident in its curated activities. From trekking along the Path of the Gods to private tours of Pompei and Herculaneum, guests can immerse themselves in the region’s rich culture and history. Culinary adventures, private dining experiences, and romantic cruises along the Amalfi Coast add to the allure of this exceptional destination.
But the best activity on offer at the Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel is a tour of Ravello with the hotel’s personal monk. Brother Marcus takes guests on a walk filled with meditation and contemplation around the church and cloisters to uncover the original features crafted by the brothers that once inhabited the convent. Next, you’ll follow Brother Marcus to the mountaintop village of Ravello to tour the Church of San Francesco and the Duomo. Where else in the world can you pick up some spirituality from an Italian monk in luxury?