4 Best Hotels in Ravello, The Amalfi Coast

Once home to the aristocratic Sasso family, this 12th-century palazzo—replete with a marble lobby (the former chapel), rooftop hot tubs, and a waterfall—once hosted a Parsifal-absorbed Wagner and was a 1950s hideaway for Ingrid Bergman and director Roberto Rossellini. Formerly part of the adjacent Hotel Palumbo, the property was opened in 1997 as Palazzo Sasso by Sir Richard Branson—the first guests were Placido Domingo and his entourage. Traditionalists might find this much glitz in quaint Ravello an affront, but no one will complain about immaculately furnished guest rooms, with the latest computer-operated lighting and air-cooling systems. With its Clubhouse by the Sea, Palazzo Avino offers what no other hotel in Ravello can: those gorgeous clifftop views along with private sea access, a swimming pool, and seaside dining.

In a grand palazzo on the highest point of Ravello, with some buildings dating from the 16th century and with a Bay of Salerno panorama that's incomparable and timeless, this member of the exclusive Belmond hotel brand has been a slice of hospitality paradise since the 19th century; today it shimmers with modern luxuries amid its frescoes, Norman arches, and beautifully terraced garden. Fans rave about the rooftop dining area and heated infinity pool with views so stunning it feels as if you're swimming between sea and sky. The lush hillside garden includes an herb garden that provides seasoning for the renowned Belvedere Restaurant, poolside bar, and the cocktail and piano bar, where happy guests can savor a great Bellini with a side of stellar views. Rooms are truly sumptuous—most have a sea view, and some have a private garden. The bar's patrons are welcome to wrap up the evening by joining the pianist for a song.

Suspended over the azure sea and set amid legendary rose-filled gardens, this Gothic-style castle was once home to Lord Grimthorpe and a hideaway for Greta Garbo; since the 1990s, it's been an exclusive if pricey visitors haven, with guest rooms ranging from palatial to cozy. A newer wing has a bevy of options with sea and pool views. Furniture, artworks, and vintage art books that belonged to the lord's daughter still grace the enchanting sitting room and 19th-century music room. Gourmet restaurant Il Flauto di Pan is well regarded.

Hued in glowing terra-cotta, adorned with gorgeous flowers, and fronted by a vast garden terrace, the Villa Maria offers more sunny warmth than Ravello's more formal hotels—not to mention a delightfully friendly staff (thanks to the hands-on management of the Palumbo family) and a convenient restaurant. All but two rooms are standard, and there's an airy suite that has a large balcony overlooking the coast. The views here are of the Vallone del Dragone, not the bay, but are memorable all the same. Also check out Maria's next-door sibling, the Hotel Giordano, a former 18th-century manor house, which shares facilities with the villa. The rooms are less desirable here, but the pool is closer.