Hotel Miramalfi

It’s an age-old question whether it’s preferable to stay on the beach or on the hill overlooking it. Francesco Mansi chose the latter when he selected Hotel Miramalfi’s clifftside location in the 1950s; instead of opening his hotel in the pretty seaside village, he opted for a property with postcard-like vistas of Amalfi and the Tyrrhenian Sea. The hotel’s design makes the most of its position — dazzling views are available from its terraces, restaurant, saltwater pool, guest rooms, and even the parking lot.

Hotel Miramalfi is still run by Mansi and his family, and though the place has been renovated and refreshed several times, the mid-century modern interiors are true to their origins. Rooms are compact, airy, and light-filled with checkered tile floors and a cheerful maritime-inspired palette of white, royal blue, pale pink, emerald green, and turquoise. French doors open onto private balconies overlooking the sea; each has a pair of striped chairs and a small table, ideal for morning coffee or evening aperitifs. Suites have separate seating areas and larger bathrooms with walk-in showers.

A flower-lined staircase leads down to the sea, winding past the pool and several terraces furnished with umbrellas and chaise longues, all conveniently attended by waiters from the pool bar. Meanwhile an elegant terrace bar offers additional outdoor seating and the best views in the house.