Relais Blu

The icy color palettes and minimalist furniture that were once urban-boutique staples take on a whole new meaning outside the bright-lights, big-city context. Transplant that crisp look to an olive and pine grove at the tip of the Sorrentine Peninsula, for example, and you’ve got a fresh take on Mediterranean style. This kind of modernism really benefits from the warming contrast of a healthy dose of old-world seaside glamour, and the 11-room Relais Blu is running a master class in this particular fusion.

If you prefer your classes to be a bit more literal, Relais Blu also gives cooking lessons three times a week, culminating in a meal on the terrace overlooking the Bay of Naples. This is perfectly in tune with the hotel’s romantic atmosphere — surrounded as it is by private beaches dotted with hidden coves, there’s no shortage of hideaways to explore. And the panoramic views of the bay and the island of Capri don’t end at the front door — each room is fitted with picture windows and balconies. The decor offers some strong persuasion to anyone who can’t see the romance in modern design — these rooms are proof that an uncluttered space can be more than charming, given the proper setting.

Of course you’re perfectly within your rights to skip the cooking lesson, as the restaurant, under the guidance of chef Roberto Allocca, is known for the absolute freshness of its ingredients. Between organized excursions to Pompeii and personal sojourns along the coastline, you’d be hard pressed to exhaust all of the opportunities for sun-drenched relaxation. When you get back, be sure to cap off the day with a round of sunset drinks on the terrace.

Please note: Relais Blu is open seasonally from the end of March through the beginning of November.

How to get there:
Naples Capodichino Airport is approximately 1.5 hours by car. If traveling by train from Naples Central Station "Piazza Garibaldi" take the local railway service (the "Circumvesuviana") to Sorrento (1 hour). From here take the SITA bus in the direction of Massa Lubrense – Marciano - Termini; alternatively, taxi service should be available outside the station.