Le Agavi Hotel

Le Agavi Hotel is an impressive cliffside property spread over five levels, with a private pebble beach on the lowest level, and the reception area located at the highest point of the property, over 650 feet above sea level. The lobby area is bright and sunlit thanks to the many large windows that open up to the spacious outdoor terrace with jaw-dropping panoramic sea and mountain views. Interiors here are packed with furniture and decorated in a classic, old-fashioned style commonly seen in upscale hotels in Italy, with gilded mirrors and picture frames, gold-painted and richly upholstered sofas and chairs, large porcelain vases, and glass showcases filled with ceramic figurines. This style continues throughout, though some rooms are more modern. The cliffside location means an interesting layout requiring multiple elevators, stairs, and/or use of the unique funicular cable car to reach various areas. Because of the removed setting outside Positano, the atmosphere is quiet, but guests will need to walk or rely on the free shuttle to reach the town center. Le Agavi attracts mostly couples visiting the region on a romantic getaway. For a luxury experience with a bit more impressive rooms, consider Il San Pietro di Positano, though rates are higher. Travelers willing to forego a pool for something cheaper should consider the family-run Hotel Villa Gabrisa, located in the center of town.

Le Agavi Hotel is located on the outskirts of the seaside town of Positano. Guests can walk to the town center in roughly 20 to 30 minutes, or opt for the free shuttle that runs every hour from morning until late at night. Unfortunately, it's not 24/7 and some past guests have complained of packed shuttles due to them only running once each hour. Cabs are also available, but they're pricey. Nevertheless, the removed setting affords a quiet atmosphere and stunning vistas. Additionally, a local bus service stops in front of the property. There are few shops and restaurants in the immediate vicinity of the hotel. Travelers heading to Positano's port or beach may want to take the hotel's water taxi service for a fee.Positano's ferry services connect to Capri (50 minutes), Amalfi (20 minutes), Salerno (15 minutes), Sorrento (60 minutes), and Ischia (two hours). The closest train station is located in Sorrento, a 30-minute drive away. The archaeological site of Pompeii is a 50-minute drive from here, and Ravello, another popular tourist destination, is about an hour away by car. Naples International Airport can be reached in about an hour by car, while Rome Fiumicino Airport is about a three-and-a-half-hour drive.

In comparison to the overdone decor of the hotel's public areas, the guest rooms are decorated in a more simple style. Renovations each year mean some rooms have a contemporary design, while others are old-fashioned and classic. Regardless, rooms are attractive and done in mostly cool tones of blue and white, or tan and white in some. Accents such as turquoise sofas, ceramic vases, and local-themed artwork add charming touches. Unfortunately, some rooms suffer from noise due to thin walls, or are showing wear such as cracks in the tile flooring.On the plus side, all units have terraces with gorgeous vistas, dining sets, and loungers. However, the hotels' unique layout means some lack privacy. Other in-room amenities include well-stocked minibars, desks, espresso machines, free water, flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi, plus closets with bathrobes, sandals, slippers, and safes. Several suites offer separate living areas, which can accommodate families or small groups. Decently sized bathrooms have large shower stalls (some with rainfall showerheads) or shower/tub combos, as well as bidets, hairdryers, and a supply of toiletries. 

Extensive on-site features mean guests never have to leave the property. A highlight and rarity for the area is the private pebble beach that can be accessed by funicular cable car. Although small, it's pleasant and has an adjacent over-water deck with cushioned loungers under umbrellas and waiter service. Behind here is Remmese Restaurant, a casual lunch and dinner spot for fish, sandwiches, and salads. Closer to the top is the lovely outdoor pool with stunning sea vistas and a scenic terrace lined with loungers. Next to the pool is a daytime bar that serves lunch, and up some stairs is a massage hut. The other restaurant is upscale La Serra, which is located in the main building and has a pleasant shaded outdoor terrace with pretty vistas. It serves a free buffet breakfast with ample pastries, made-to-order eggs, smoked salmon, yogurt, and coffee drinks, as well as light lunches and gourmet dinners. Room service is available 24/7. The hotel's three bars serve drinks on the large terrace, at the beach, and by the pool. Other amenities include free shuttle service to Positano every hour from morning until late. Staff can also assist guests with booking taxis or water taxis, and arrange airport and train station transfers. A private boat can be rented as well. There are ample of on-site parking spots for guests arriving by car, though the daily fee is pricey. The hotel also has a meeting room that can be rented for special events. Free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the property.