Capri Tiberio Palace

Italy is strewn with jaw-dropping destinations — it’s hardly fair that the Amalfi Coast and the Gulf of Naples should find themselves joined by no less scenic a neighbor than Capri. It seems a bit greedy to be hoarding all that seaside majesty, which probably explains why the Roman Emperor Tiberius established his villa on the island. Today, of course, Capri caters to visitors with a slightly less reclusive bent. With its status as one of the world’s most beguiling hotspots firmly established, the island plays host to a number of remarkably low-key yet jazzy hotels, of which the Capri Tiberio Palace is a stunning example.

Capri Tiberio Palace embodies the kind of effortless mod-Italian hospitality that takes its cues from the suave cool of sixties cinema. Aided by a palette of soft creams, the environment announces itself with the lightest of touches, like a pair of white linen pants. The 54 guestrooms don’t lay the décor on very thick — you’ll find an art object here, a black-and-white photo there — because the view does all the heavy lifting. The hotel is perched just high enough to provide a good look at the island’s greenery, dotted with villas cascading down to the sea.

All this talk of the Palace’s gentle cool factor is not to say that it doesn’t positively swing — from the mojito bar on the roof deck to Terrazza Tiberio, the Mediterranean restaurant serving a range of kosher dishes made with local ingredients, there’s plenty of opportunity to do more than just kick back. Get your evening started with a sunset cocktail at the Cuban-inspired Jacky bar, then hit the town’s central piazzetta, which is only two minutes from the front door.

Please note: Capri Tiberio Palace is open seasonally, April through October.