Le Sirenuse – Positano, Amalfi Coast
Perched on a hillside overlooking Positano and the Gulf of Salerno, Le Sirenuse has been run by the Sersale family since it opened in 1951. This boutique hotel offers 58 rooms, each with views of the bay or Positano’s vibrant village. The elegant interiors showcase an impeccable blend of Italian heritage and coastal charm. From the Michelin-starred restaurant to the rooftop terrace, every corner of Le Sirenuse exudes character. The family’s personal involvement is evident in every detail, from curated decor to attentive service.
Villa La Massa – Florence
Just outside Florence, Villa La Massa has been a family favorite since the 16th century, once serving as a summer estate for Italian nobility. Today, the Hotelier Sina family preserves its elegance while offering a warm welcome to guests. The 51-room hotel boasts lush gardens along the Arno River, ideal for strolling or a peaceful afternoon. With its Renaissance architecture, luxurious spa, and gourmet restaurant, Villa La Massa is an idyllic retreat within reach of the city’s historic heart.
Palazzo Margherita – Bernalda, Basilicata
Owned by renowned filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola and his family, Palazzo Margherita is a hidden gem in the town of Bernalda. Coppola restored this 19th-century palazzo to honor his Italian heritage, transforming it into an intimate, stylish hotel. With only nine rooms, each individually decorated, guests can feel like part of the family. The on-site kitchen and cozy, communal areas encourage guests to enjoy local dishes and celebrate the simplicity of Italian village life.
Castello di Vicarello – Tuscany
This medieval castle, located between Rome and Florence, has been lovingly restored by Carlo and Aurora Baccheschi Berti. Castello di Vicarello offers seven unique suites surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and rolling hills. The owners aim to give guests a “home away from home” feeling, combining luxurious details with a relaxed ambiance. With on-site cooking classes and wine tastings, guests can immerse themselves in Tuscan traditions under the guidance of the Baccheschi Berti family.
Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel & Spa – Amalfi Coast
Set in a 17th-century monastery, Monastero Santa Rosa is managed by Bianca Sharma and her family, who lovingly restored it into a luxury hotel with a focus on wellness and relaxation. Overlooking the Amalfi Coast, this cliffside hotel offers 20 spacious rooms, an infinity pool, and a renowned spa that utilizes traditional Italian techniques and herbs from the monastery’s own gardens. The intimate, welcoming atmosphere is perfect for guests seeking tranquility.
Villa Lina – Lake Garda
Villa Lina is a charming family-run boutique hotel on Lake Garda’s shores, managed by the Cristoforetti family since the 1940s. With only 13 rooms, the hotel offers a quaint and personal atmosphere where guests feel like part of the family. Villa Lina boasts a private beach, a lakeside terrace, and carefully preserved vintage decor. Guests can enjoy homemade Italian meals and local wines, creating a homey yet elegant experience that captures the essence of Lake Garda.
La Minerva – Capri
La Minerva is a favorite among those seeking Capri’s elegance without the crowds. The Esposito family has been running this 19-room hotel for three generations, ensuring each guest experiences the island’s beauty with an authentic touch. With its rooftop pool, beautifully curated gardens, and comfortable, stylish rooms, La Minerva embodies understated luxury. The Esposito family prides itself on offering personalized service, recommending hidden spots on the island and sharing the best of Capri’s rich culture.
Albergo Miramare – Santa Margherita Ligure
The enchanting town of Santa Margherita Ligure along the Italian Riviera is home to Albergo Miramare, a family-run hotel that has been welcoming guests for over a century. The charming hotel overlooks the Ligurian Sea, and the Fossati family ensures every detail reflects their dedication to Italian heritage and hospitality. With quaint decor, balconies with sea views, and a restaurant specializing in local cuisine, Albergo Miramare is a delightful retreat for travelers wanting a taste of classic Italian seaside culture.
Hotel Caesar Augustus – Anacapri
Owned by the Signorini family, Hotel Caesar Augustus boasts one of the most spectacular views in Italy, perched atop a cliff in Anacapri. This 55-room hotel has a rich history dating back to the 1930s, when it became a family-owned establishment. Each room offers stunning views of the Gulf of Naples, and the restaurant serves fresh, local ingredients straight from the hotel’s organic gardens. The Signorini family’s dedication to sustainability and luxury shines through in every detail, creating an unforgettable experience.
Albergo Diffuso Sextantio – Abruzzo
The Sextantio Albergo Diffuso, set in the hilltop village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio, is a unique experience inspired by traditional Italian hospitality. Daniele Kihlgren, the hotel’s founder, wanted to preserve the historical integrity of the medieval village, creating an “albergo diffuso” or “scattered hotel.” Instead of staying in a single building, guests sleep in restored village houses, each with traditional decor. It’s an immersive experience that blends rustic charm with modern comforts, allowing guests to experience Italian village life.
