Hotel Palazzo Murat

For those who want to stay in the heart of the colorful fishing village of Positano, the Palazzo Murat, a charming, family-run hotel, makes an excellent choice. It is superbly located—surrounded by shops and only steps down to the beach. The hotel consists of two parts: the original building (a 200-year-old palace) plus an attached new wing that stretches to the side. The palace has a faded-pink patina whose charm is accented by wonderful arched alcoves, intricately designed windows, and magenta bougainvillea clinging to the walls and cascading from the wrought-iron balconies. The entrance to the hotel is through a sun-drenched patio, a favorite gathering spot for guests. In the evening, tables are beautifully set on the patio where guests can dine under the stars with the scent of jasmine perfuming the air. Within, the old-world feeling is maintained with tiled floors, white walls, and formal settings of antique sofas and chairs. My favorite bedrooms are the five upstairs in the palace section: especially appealing are those with shuttered French doors opening onto small balconies that capture a view of the bay. All the rooms are comfortable and have television, radio, and mini-bar. The hotel has its own boat that takes guests for excursions along the coast six times a week.