From its dramatic perch atop one of the highest points on the island, it presides over commanding views of Ischia, Gulf on Naples and the surrounding Mediterranean Sea.A sigh away from the hectic pace of Capri, its location above the walking streets of Anacapri make it a sanctuary for celebrity runaways. An opulent whitewashed palace hiding under olive trees, the property has evolved over the years to become the it-hotel of the island free of tourists taking pictures by the pool and tacky shops pandering to weekenders. A short distance from Capri, the ride to the hotel is a series of hairpin turns over thousand-foot drops in vehicles the barely fit on the road, let alone passing a bus. By the end of the journey is perhaps the most well conceived island hotel in Europe and a place few people ever seem ready to leave.

The Room:

Open from March to October, the hotel caters to a discriminating following of young and young-at-heart. A spa atmosphere prevails throughout the hotel, perhaps because the signature Beauty Farm is so good. Guests are indulged in oversize guest accommodations ranging between the classic guest room to the Megaron Suite that boasts its own pool and hanging garden. Each room features marble floors, luxury linens, a creative mini-bar with lotions and local flavors, as well as a bathroom of signature bath products and Frette linens. The hotel features private pools in many of the room categories, perfect for couples looking for a little more privacy or fun. During the summer many guests choose to stay with full board, meaning that breakfast and dinner are included in the hotel price. Since dinner is in L'Olivo, the One Star Michelin-rated restaurant, it is actually a value.