Living The Amalfi Dream: Borgo Santandrea – Hotel Review
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4 months ago
This seafront hotel is a real showstopper
Positioned between Amalfi and Postino, Borgo Santandrea takes up residence in a former 1960s hotel that clings dramatically to a sheer cliff face. In a location not short of outstanding, this newcomer sets a new standard along the iconic Amalfi Coast, with its gorgeous suites with meticulously designed interiors and private plunge pools, not to mention excellent service, great food, and pinch-me coastal views. Lauren Ho reviews.
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Living The Amalfi Dream: Borgo Santandrea – Hotel Review
STAY
Image: Enzo Rando
The best way to arrive at Borgo Santandrea is by boat. From the sea, the drama of the stone building, which is built on the side of a vertical bluff beneath a gaping cave, will take your breath away. This sets the tone for the rest of the hotel, which has been meticulously transformed by one of the co-owners into a mid-century design dream featuring iconic furniture pieces (many from his own collection), from Gio Ponti originals to Hans Wegner Wishbone Chairs. This is set against a canvas of cool Amalfi chic in blue and white tones that blend seamlessly with the views outside. As with the entire hotel, the attention to details is extraordinary, from the Rubelli fabrics and specially commissioned ceramics to the floor tiles, which are all individually hand-made and hand painted in 31 different geometric patterns inspired by the floors of various historical buildings, churches and cathedrals. The 45 rooms and suites – all with sea views – are just as thoughtful, each with majestic marble bathrooms, a mix of bespoke furnishings and pieces from top Italian brands, while the top suites come with their own terrace and pool.
DO
Image: Martin Sigal
There is currently a small spa and gym, which is due to be expanded, but given the hotel’s prime position on the seafront (with its own dock and private beach), the best thing to do is spend the day exploring the glorious Amalfi coast on the hotel’s boat, stopping by Amalfi, Positano or Capri. After a day spent jumping off the boat into the clear aquamarine waters and lunching at charming waterfront restaurants like Lo Scoglio – which serves a delicious zucchini spaghetti – return to the hotel for a nap and an aperol on one of the beach sunloungers.
EAT
Image: Umberto D’Aniello
Breakfast is a big thing at Borgo Santandrea. Served until midday and set up within the kitchen of Alici restaurant, guest can wander casually around the extensive display of food that covers everything from cakes and pastries to homemade lemon marmalade, cheeses, charcuterie, yogurts and salads, plus eggs, crepes, french toast or even spaghetti made to order- all served on the outdoor terrace with a sea view of course. If your stomach can handle lunch, Marinella – which is also open in the evening – serves simple regional dishes like spaghetti al pomodoro, while the Beach Club is the best place for pizza. For dinner at Alici, executive chef Crescenzo Scotti serves a regional menu with classics from Campania within a romantic candle lit setting on the terrace.
THE FINAL WORD
Image: Enzo Rando
A newcomer on the Amalfi coast scene, Borgo Santandrea is setting a new standard in the area and has to be experienced to get a true feeling of the meticulous attention to detail.
