View of the Tyrrhenian coast from Hotel Santavenere in Maratea, Italy.
Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Santavenere
Hotel of the Week: Step Inside a Dreamy Italian Retreat Overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea
Opening May 1, Santavenere offers 34 guest suites sheathed in Vietri tiles in gelato-like shades, vintage furnishings, and artisan-made ceramics
As one of the most popular travel destinations on the planet, Italy offers a multitude of places to experience inspirational art and culture, sample decadent gourmet foods and wines, or soak up the Mediterranean sun on chic loungers overlooking the deep blue sea. However, that also means not many corners are left relatively unexplored, and fashionable resorts are frequently packed with guests during the summer months.
Travelers looking for a taste of la dolce vita should turn their attention to the coastal city of Maratea, where the boutique hotel Santavenere offers breathtaking views over a rocky coast dotted with terracotta-tiled rooflines, epicurean restaurants, and a quieter, more restful atmosphere.
Aerial view of Hotel Santavenere in Maratea, Italy. Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Santavenere
Built in 1953 by a prominent wool industrialist from Piedmont, Count Stefano Rivetti, the property underwent a total refresh, and is now reopening to guests on May 1. Yet, many of Santavenere’s original details have been maintained, particularly in the 34 guest suites which are outfitted with charming details like Vietri tiles in gelato-like shades of pink and green, vintage furnishings, and artisan ceramics from Minturno. Included in the renovation was the transformation of eight garden rooms by Italian architect Pino Brescia.
Spacious communal areas boast an equally authentic atmosphere which carries through to the property’s three restaurants and cozy corner bars. Here, guests can savor traditional-style pizza at tables set outdoors among olive trees and aromatic flora or enjoy sea-to-table dishes at The Carob, which occupies a waterfront terrace perfect for taking in romantic sunset views.
Bedroom suite at Hotel Santavenere in Maratea, Italy. Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Santavenere
Outside, the location’s 32,000 square feet of landscape allows for plenty of room to roam. Guests are invited to partake in yoga classes, or explore the craggy Tyrrhenian coast that is punctuated with secluded caves, pebbled beaches, and clusters of maple, pine, and chestnut trees. Athletic travelers can work up a sweat with kayaking, hiking, and biking; swim in the tranquil pool; enjoy a spirited tennis match; or try out the indoor gym with large windows allowing for picturesque views, while those after more sedentary pursuits might want to turn their attention to the spa, which channels the healing energy of the mountains into various body treatments and scrubs. Explorers can also book one of the hotel’s experiential tours and learn more about the region’s culinary arts or tapestry making.
Immersed in nature and protective of its artisan heritage, Santavenere—which is one of the newest members of Leading Hotels of the World—is the ideal destination for those looking to escape the “in crowd” and unwind with no crowd at all.
See more photos below:
Aerial view of the pool and lush landscape at Hotel Santavenere in Maratea, Italy. Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Santavenere
Scenic views from one of the 34 suites at boutique hotel Santavenere in Maratea, Italy. Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Santavenere
Interior view of one of the 34 guest suites at Hotel Santavenere, one of eight properties newly added to the Leading Hotels of the World. Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Santavenere
Built in the 1950s, the Hotel Santavenere maintains many of its original design details. Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Santavenere
Sea views from the terrace at Hotel Santavenere in Maratea, Italy. Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Santavenere
The pool at Hotel Santavenere is immersed in the property's 32,000 square feet of lush gardens. Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Santavenere
Hotel Santavenere’s spectacular clifftop setting offers numerous secluded nooks for swimming and sunbathing. Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Santavenere
Cover: View of the Tyrrhenian coast from Hotel Santavenere in Maratea, Italy.
Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Santavenere
