A multi-centre combining Anantara’s two Italian properties in Rome and Amalfi is by far the most luxurious way to appreciate all that Italy has to offer. It's fair to say I was eagerly awaiting the chance to get a taste of both hotels, particularly because of the fact that they are situated in two of Italy's most iconic locations.
My first impression of the Anantara Palazzo Naiadi was that it was instantly worthy of being a showcase of Rome’s grandeur. It is one of the most eye-catching buildings in Piazza della Repubblica, and the location is fantastic, with most landmarks reachable in around 15 minutes. Perhaps the standout feature is the 5* service from every staff member which really accentuates the feeling of luxury and comfort that is so synonymous with Anantara all over the world.
Appropriately, the cuisine is a unique selling point of the hotel. Its fine-dining INEO restaurant is perfect for any special occasion due to its delightful taster menu that combines various contemporary and traditional ideas, as well as an atmospheric but stylish décor fitting for its location in the vibrant Monti district, with its vintage treasures and artisan shops. Its more informal, trendy SEEN restaurant is another outstanding pillar of the property with its daring fusion of foods from across the globe, and its panoramic rooftop view and bar.
Given the city’s enduring prominence in history, art, cuisine, culture and media, it should be no surprise that Rome has an indescribable aura. Yet it is impossible not to be stunned by the extent of its illustriousness all across the seven hills, and there could be no better way of exploring the city than through a private tour in a golf buggy, a truly unforgettable experience organised through the hotel’s fantastic concierge service.
On the balcony of my suite
Views of Piazza della Repubblica from balcony
Rooftop pool
Amalfi is one of Europe’s greatest treasures due to its colourful buildings amid steep, looming cliffs along glistening blue waters that are only disrupted by even more eye-catching rugged coastline on the horizon. There is no better spot to enjoy such postcard-perfect scenery in astonishingly high levels of luxury than at Anantara’s Convento di Amalfi.
Its public terraces were undoubtedly one of the standout features, from which the view can be enjoyed at breakfast and dinner, and at any time during the day or evening along with a coffee or an aperitivo. Most of its 52 rooms and suites have a similar view. There have been very few better feelings in all my travels than waking up to this view in one of the Anantara suites.
When combined with the 5* service, the history of the building as a medieval convent which survives within the existing structure today, and its facilities – from its infinity pool to its gardens to food classes – it became apparent very quickly that I was staying somewhere truly special. Indeed, a stay at this unique property is not complete without a tour of the convent and chapel led by their very own friar.
Italy’s diverse mix of historical influences is most explicit in the south, not least in Amalfi, where its stunning cathedral epitomises how Norman, Arabic, and other styles of architecture all blend together to create the beautiful structures that are enjoyed today. Amalfi’s busy but picturesque town centre – from which the hotel is perfectly situated just a few minutes’ walk from – does not require a rigorous exploration to appreciate its beauty and evidently fascinating character. This allowed for sufficient time to relax at the hotel and enjoy the aforementioned scenery, including one of the best sunsets I have ever witnessed.
Views from Anantara Convento di Amalfi
The hotel was formerly a 13th-century Capuchin convent
Pizza making in the Amalfi Coast
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