LUX February 2017

LUX - February 2017 47 Costal Comfort at Le Sirenuse Le Sirenuse opened its doors in 1951, when four Neapolitan brothers, the Marchesi Aldo, Paolo, Anna and Franco Sersale turned their summer house in Positano into a charming hotel, overlooking the bay of Positano. Today the 58-room resort is considered one of Italy’s leading seaside luxury hotels, though it still retains the intimate, cultured atmosphere of a private home. Located at the centre of the picturesque village of Positano, on the Amalfi Drive, Le Sirenuse is just 50 km from Naples, offering the perfect combination of seclusion and proximity which ensures you can indulge in the ideal Italian cultural getaway whilst also returning to rejoice in the discretion and tranquillity of this excellent establishment. Set in a Cliffside building overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, this high-end, adults-only hotel is an 8-minute walk from Marina Grande beach, offering easy access to natural splendour whilst simultaneously enveloping guests in modern hospitality through its modern facilities and high end service. The cliffs are utterly magnificent, particularly at night, and make for the perfect backdrop to a romantic promenade in the early evening. The weather is balmy and tranquil, and the sounds of the sea lapping against the shore is both relaxing and inspiring. Inside the décor is ornate, colourful and tasteful, featuring antique touches set against a whitewashed background to create a decedent atmosphere. Almost all rooms, suites and junior suites look out over the bay of Positano, and many have a private terrace or balcony and all have white-washed walls, vaulted ceilings and hand-made tiles on the floors. Each of the hotel’s 58 rooms, are decorated individually with antique and contemporary furniture coming from Europe and the East, following the eclectic style which is so characteristic of their charm. The bathrooms are made of marble and handmade tiles and all but three have a whirlpool bath tub, which, where ever possible, is double size, adding a dash of romance to these already evocative rooms. Every comfort has been thought of, and as such all rooms have a telephone, a flat screen plasma TV with all satellite channels and a DVD player, a safe, air conditioning, minibar and an I-Pod docking station. A selection of movies, I-pods loaded with a vast array of music are available for guests to use in their rooms, with two computers with internet access available in the Spa lounge to ensure that those who cannot stay fully disconnected can re-immerse themselves in the real world before returning to the glorious coastal dreamland that is Le Sirenuse. In the bathrooms 100% cotton towels and robes by Frette and luxurious “Eau d’Italie” bath and body products are provided for guests’ comfort. The “Eau d’Italie” line of products and well known fragrances were created and are still produced by the Sersale family for Le Sirenuse. While the perfumes are sold in selected boutiques worldwide, this hotel is the only one in the world using the “Eau d’Italie” products as amenities, making this a great chance to sample these naturally elegant and luxurious products. True pampering is on offer at the hotel’s spa. Designed by Gae Aulenti the Sirenuse Spa is modern and essential, offering massages and face and body treatments using AVEDA’s aromatic essential oils, natural products and techniques. The spa’s signature treatments can be offers both for individuals and for couple in the SPA Suite, making this a great chance to bask in a romantic and intimate pampering experience. Treatments on offer include indulgent massages, body wraps, facials, manicures and pedicures. For guests in need of replenishment following a long day of pampering and indulgence in the Mediterranean sun have a host of sumptuous dining options to choose from at Le Sirenuse. The light Mediterranean cuisine of the hotel’s Michelin- starred La Sponda restaurant is based on fresh local ingredients and inspired by the great cuilnary traditions of Naples and the Amalfi Coast. Infused by the leisured elegance of Positano’s dolce vita, La Sponda is illuminated, in the evening, by four hundred candles that create an unforgettable atmosphere. A more relaxed experience, Le Sirenuse’s Champagne & Oyster Bar enjoys breath-taking views over Positano. Sumptuously furnished and candlelit, it is open in the evenings from May to mid-October, weather permitting. It is the ideal place for a glass of champagne millésimé or a cocktail made to perfection, some oysters, shellfish, and fish carpaccios, all accompanied by the seducing music of the bar’s resident DJ. There is also a Pool Bar and Restaurant, allowing guests to dine in style, surrounded by lemon trees and comfortable deck chairs. This relaxing atmosphere is the perfect space in which to try new flavours and fresh ingredients, all of which are expertly prepared by world class chefs. After dinner, those seeking a refreshing nightcap need look no further than Franco’s Bar. The latest addition to Le Sirenuse, Franco’s Bar is a stylish, panoramic al fresco terrace that tips its hat to a golden age of fine cocktails and quality champagne. The bar’s fresh and striking decor and contemporary artworks, commissioned from a raft of local and international talent, pay homage to the late Franco Sersale, whose careful design curation is still evident in every corner of the hotel. Overall, this stunning hotel, with its seaside location, excellent service and luxurious décor makes for an unforgettable break. From romantic escapes to a family holiday, this hotel can cater for anyone and everyone, ensuring that you enjoy the trip you truly desire. To learn more or to book your stay in this beautiful Italian establishment, please visit sirenuse.it “Inside the décor is ornate, colourful and tasteful, featuring antique touches set against a whitewashed background to create a decedent atmosphere.”