Maison La Minervetta

STEP INSIDE Maison La Minervetta and you could have walked straight into the pages of an Italian interior design magazine. Architect Marco de Luca has created a stunning contemporary address this white-walled 1950s villa on Sorrento’s cliffside that feels more like an airy Mediterranean style loft apartment than a conventional hotel.

All is glass and light, with floor-to-ceiling windows capturing stunning Bay of Naples views at every turn. The vibrant colours of the South give La Minervetta immense visual vrooom, set off by sleek modern furniture and smart lighting. Deep turquoise is strikingly teamed with navy and lime green; orange is played up to the hilt with coral red and yellow; reds and whites contrast with stripes of darkest blue. We were instantly captivated.

There’s no pared-down minimalism here; La Minervetta's walls are set off by flamboyant artworks and collections of ceramics and pottery from around the world, all brilliantly presented in trademark alcoves or miniature shelves.

Retro touches

Retro ’60s armchairs and lampshades lend a classic edge while a series of still-lifes – a line of pebbles, a bowl of shells or an artful arrangement of twigs – provide endless fascination. Every room at this chic Neapolitan hide-out is a winner.

Cooked breakfasts are served al fresco or family-style round the large table in the chequerboard tiled kitchen. Cocktails are served later on one of the three outdoor terraces – one having a jacuzzi pool.

With its splash pool ready for dipping, the panoramic terrace is made for chilling. Gaze at Mount Vesuvius and the shimmering Bay of Naples from your chaise longue, head down to La Minervetta's slice of private beach, or wander into town for some nightlife. This place is the coolest address in town.

© Room for Romance