Miramalfi Hotel

Operated by the same family since 1956, Miramalfi makes the most of its prime cliff-top location, showcasing outstanding views of the ocean. The outdoor spaces are wonderful: There's a large terrace with cozy seating, an outdoor pool with cliffside loungers mere feet above the ocean, and patio seating at the restaurant. The lobby is fresh and bright, with a wooden front desk, white glossy floors, and white and blue armchairs. Potted plants and floor-to-ceiling windows add to the airy, relaxed vibe of the lobby and restaurant. Unfortunately, this fresh, Mediterranean look doesn't extend to the hotel as a whole, and some areas could use updating, especially the guest rooms. The property draws couples, but its spacious rooms lure families, too. 

The Miramalfi stands tall above the sea on an Amalfi cliff. While the hotel has direct access to the ocean, the closest beach is about a 10-minute walk away. The city center is a bit removed, about a 20-minute walk from the hotel or a five-minute drive; it's packed with restaurants, cafes, and historic sights. There's a bus stop a minute from the hotel, and the hotel offers free shuttle service to and from town.

Miramali's 49 rooms have sunny, Mediterranean flair. Style and decor vary a bit, but local artisanal tiles, blue accents, and green seagrass-colored woven furniture are pretty standard. Unfortunately, the bedding, curtains, and furniture is starting to look a tad tired. All rooms include air-conditioning, minibars, free Wi-Fi, safes (for a fee), and flat-screen TVs. Some rooms have lovely furnished balconies or terraces with views of the sea. Bathrooms are spacious with bidets, Carthusia toiletries, hairdryers, and shower/tub combos. Some Superior Rooms have jetted bathtubs, which are standard in Junior Suites and Suites. Housekeeping could use some improvement -- guests have complained about mold and subpar maintenance in some of the rooms. 

For a small-scale property, the Miramalfi has a number of amenities. Topping that list is the hotel's outdoor pool on a dock that overlooks the sea. It's serviced by a small bar and offers direct access to the ocean. The restaurant, Il Miramalfi, has panoramic views of the ocean, and serves Mediterranean-inspired meals, as well as a breakfast buffet (for a fee). Room service is available. Guests can grab drinks from the bar to and sip them on the large outdoor terrace. Wi-Fi is free throughout, and there's a public computer in the lobby. On-site paid parking is available.