Punta Tragara

Originally conceived as a private villa in 1923, this cliff-top property was built on the suggestion of French architect and pioneer of modernism Le Corbusier. During the World War II, it served as American headquarters, and it was where Dwight D. Eisenhower and Winston Churchill met to discuss strategies. In 1968 was converted into a hotel by Count Manfredi. Despite the involvement of the modernist master, the property, with its terra-cotta-toned and natural stone facades clad in colorful bougainvillea, has a more rustic than modern look from the outside. A striking black-and-white patterned carpet leads up marble steps and continues into a vaulted-ceiling lobby with contemporary lighting and large, curved, satin, floral sofas and armchairs. Classical paintings, green modernist coffee tables, and floral- and geometric-patterned fabrics create an eclectic ambience, while glass cabinets display ceramic ornaments and other objets d’art. The hotel is set within lush garden terraces with lounge areas under a vine-covered pergola and two outdoor pools, both of which offer spectacular views over the Tyrrhenian Sea. The atmosphere throughout is refined, cultivated, and romantic, and the hotel draws a good share of couples and honeymooners.

The hotel perches on a cliff top offering incredible views over the Faraglioni (Sirens’ Rocks) and Marina Piccola Bay on the south side of Capri island. It's a 15-minute walk to the famous La Piazzetta square -- a mostly uphill trek that includes the Via Camerelle, the main shopping street in Capri with several high-end designer boutiques. There are plenty of eating and drinking places within a short stroll, and Certosa di San Giacomo monastery is about a 13-minute walk. The funicular train that links the center with the port terminates at La Piazzetta, and from here the hotel can be reached only on foot (porters are available for a fee).

The Punta Tragara has 44 rooms, most of which have traditional but fresh-looking decor with antique-style furnishings and a few contemporary touches. There are also six beautifully presented suites that are individually styled with themes drawing from art and nature. Amenities include minibars, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs with DVD players, satellite channels, and pay-per-view movies, while marble bathrooms provide large walk-in showers and Ortigia bath products. All rooms and suites open to terraces or balconies, most with outstanding sea views. While all rooms are air-conditioned, some guests have complained that it can be a bit temperamental at times.

The hotel serves an extensive buffet breakfast along with a la carte choices in a bright breakfast room with mosaic floors that overlooks the sea (included in the room rate). Monzu restaurant has an outdoor terrace with panoramic views and serves a menu of typical Capri and Neapolitan dishes -- romantic candle-lit dinners can be arranged. The hotel also features two outdoor swimming pools -- one heated and both overlooking the sea -- while the poolside Pergola bar serves drinks, including sunset cocktails. There's also a modern spa offering a range of rather pricey massage and beauty treatments, as well as a fitness room with up-to-date exercise equipment. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.