Villa Maria

The Villa Maria is perhaps best known for its absolutely delightful terrace restaurant, which has a bird’s-eye view of the magnificent coast. Whereas most of Ravello’s hotels capture the southern view, the Villa Maria features the equally lovely vista to the north. The hotel is easy to locate, being on the same walking path that winds its way from the main square to the Villa Cimbrone gardens. After parking a level below the main square (or at the owner’s other hotel, Giordano, where porters can handle your luggage and a pool can be used), look for signs for the Villa Maria, perched on the cliffs to your right (5 min. walk). The building is a romantic old villa with a garden stretching to the side where tables and chairs are set, a favorite place to dine while enjoying the superb view. Inside, there is a cozy dining room overlooking the garden. The bedrooms are air conditioned and furnished with antique pieces including brass beds. The bathrooms have been freshly remodeled and some have Jacuzzi tubs. Ingredients for excellent Mediterranean dishes come directly from the property’s organic vegetable garden and for those wishing to know more about this regions fine cuisine, daily and weekly cooking courses have become very popular here. A private garden down the road is another relaxing spot for guests who fill the comments book with appreciation of the warm hospitality.