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Ravello’s Inspiring Haven for Creatives
Ravello has a way of stirring something deep within you. It’s not hard to see why Richard Wagner found his muse here in 1880, breaking through his creative block on Parsifal after wandering through the gardens of a villa. There’s an almost magical quality to the town that still lingers today.
The annual Ravello Festival, born in 1953 to honor Wagner, keeps the spirit alive with performances that draw the world’s best. And while Paolo Caruso may have started his namesake hotel to host visitors in style, it’s clear that its legacy is about more than luxury—it’s about continuing to inspire every guest who steps through its doors.
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A Palace Above the Amalfi Coast
When you arrive at Hotel Caruso, you realize immediately: this is no ordinary place. Perched 1,000 feet above the sparkling Mediterranean, the views are nothing short of spectacular. The infinity pool, stretching toward the horizon, feels like it’s daring you to forget the rest of the world.
I spent my mornings lingering over coffee on the terrace, watching the coastline come to life, and my evenings marveling at the golden glow of sunset. Even if you’re not staying here, dining at the Belvedere restaurant is an experience you shouldn’t miss. The food, the ambiance, and those views—it’s the kind of evening that feels indulgent in the best way.
Italian Grandeur Meets Warm Hospitality
Walking into Hotel Caruso is like stepping into another era, where elegance is a way of life. The vaulted ceilings, marble floors, and frescoes are impressive, but what stood out to me most was the sense of welcome.
It’s grand without ever being stuffy, striking the perfect balance between refinement and comfort. Every detail, from the Roman columns to the subtle touches of modern convenience, has been thoughtfully considered. Staying here feels less like booking a hotel and more like being invited into a piece of history.
The Gardens That Capture Your Imagination
I’ve visited many hotel gardens, but none quite like this. Hotel Caruso’s gardens are a feast for the senses, from the scent of orange blossoms to the vibrant hues of hydrangeas and roses.
There’s a quiet magic here that makes you want to linger, whether you’re wandering the pathways or settling into a shady nook with a book. It’s a place where time slows down, and you’re reminded how good it feels to simply be present. If Wagner could see it now, I’m convinced he’d declare it the perfect Klingsor’s garden.
A Legacy of Elegance and Prestige
The Caruso family’s story began humbly in 1893 with a small guesthouse, but it didn’t take long for the property to become a destination for the world’s elite.
Luminaries like Humphrey Bogart, Alexander Fleming, and Jackie Kennedy have all passed through its doors. Knowing you’re sharing a space that’s played host to so much history adds a special kind of magic to your stay. Today, under Belmond’s care, the hotel continues to honor its past while offering a level of luxury that feels effortlessly timeless.
How to Get There and What to Expect
Getting to Hotel Caruso is part of the adventure. Just 65 kilometers (40 miles) from Naples Airport, the journey along the Amalfi Coast sets the tone for the beauty ahead. With only 19 rooms and 31 suites, the hotel feels exclusive in a way that’s rare these days. From the elegant dining at the Belvedere restaurant to the cozy garden and piano bars, every corner of the property invites you to slow down and soak in the moment.
A Destination Worth Every Euro
Let me be honest: Hotel Caruso isn’t cheap. But some places are worth the splurge, and this is undoubtedly one of them. Even if you’re not staying overnight, a visit to the restaurant or a swim in that legendary infinity pool is worth every euro.
For me, it was less about the luxury (though it’s abundant) and more about the memories—watching the sunset from the veranda, sipping an Aperol spritz, and feeling like I was part of something timeless. It’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you’ve left, and for that, I can’t recommend it enough.
