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Le
Sirenuse
It's
hard to imagine leaving Positano once you've had
the privilege of seeing it. If you do plan on
staying for a while, why not treat yourself to
some time well spent at one of the best hotels
in the world, Le Sirenuse! The small hotel feels
more like a villa, which is exactly what it once
was. In 1951, the Serales family converted this
beautiful summer home into a luxury hotel. Built
on terraces cut into the hillside with
breathtaking views from almost every room, Le
Sirenuse is a haven for the discerning traveler
craving discreet and understated
elegance.
The
Serales family craftily combined the warmth and
charm of the original house with a first class
restaurant, services and amenities. During the
past 70 years, this fishing village has
maintained it's original charm, while adapting
to the necessary changes of the modern world.
The view incorporates the multi colored houses,
the volcanic mountainous landscape, contrasted
with little beaches along the coast that are
known for their black pebble terrain. Le
Sirenuse is named after the mythical mystery of
Sirens, who sang from the rocks and tries to
lure Ulysses to crash his ships into the
islands.
Today,
Giulia Serales' family still owns and manages
the hotel, leaving no detail unnoticed. She
maintains that while staying at her family's
hotel, you are treated like family. This is a
tradition practiced by most business owners and
people living in the region.
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The old world Positano
greets the modern day technology at Le Sirenuse.
Each room has cable TV, DVD players, radios with
CD players, email capabilities, safety boxes,
mini-bars, and double or single occupancy
bathtubs. As a five star hotel, they acknowledge
their requirements to keep up with the times.
It's a perfect marriage of old world charm and
the luxuries of today. The newly updated
bathrooms are equipped with his and hers sinks
with enormous mirrors, walk in shower, built in
hair dryer, terry robes, slippers, and of course
complimentary luxury toiletries.
In
2000, a friend of the family, a well-known
designer from Milan, called Giolenti, designed
the world-class spa, which includes facial and
body treatments using Aveda products. The spa is
divided into two sections, the gym room with
life fitness machines, and the audiovisual
center, where you can watch DVD's or relax to
music. And then of course there is the actual
spa area. There is also a pool if you are
inclined to swim laps.
We all know that heavy
pampering can work up an appetite, and there is
no reason to leave le Sirenuse to satisfy your
appetite. Room service is available and the
hotel takes pride in their "not to be missed"
breakfast, which is complimentary. The
stunningly decorated gourmet restaurant offers a
feast for your eyes as well as your appetite.
Located on the third floor, the dining room is
carefully decorated with around 420 candles. The
even have a person who is responsible for
maintaining the luminous sight. Even from far
away, people are stunned by the ambiance that
the candlelight gives off.
Le
Sirenuse has won several awards in excellence,
including the Conde Nast Traveler award for best
hotel in Europe,
and they also share the top place position with
a Californian hotel. Their spa also holds awards
of distinction for European spas. In addition to
awards, Le Sirenuse is also included in the
Leading Hotels of the World. My experience at
this exquisite hotel allows me to give it the
highest recommendation, with fond memories and a
strong desire to return soon.
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