Hotel Corallo Sorrento

Perched on a rocky cliff soaring above the Gulf of Naples, this fine patrician house done in the Mediterranean Revival style dates to 1910. The elegant building has refined, white detailing and wooden shutters, and an unassuming entrance -- but be prepared to be gobsmacked in the lobby taking in spectacular views clear across the water. 

Beyond reception, an atrium has pretty slipcovered couches with contrasting piping in an of array pink hues and a handsome bar. Dreamy decor solidifies a sense of place. Think: marble floors, bronze statues, religious art, and period antiques. The restaurant is formally dressed in ivory and ecru, filled with round tables and medallion-backed chairs. There's a covered terrace for al fresco dining and a pair of sweeping staircases out back that lead to the esplanade, with lush ivy tumbling down a stone wall and tropical plants in terra-cotta pots.

Guests exchanging nuptials, honeymooners, and couples in the market for a romantic getaway tend to book stays at the property. The hotel also attracts families looking for a waterfront location that's close to town for a reasonable rate. 

The hotel is located in the village of Sant 'Agnello, roughly a 10-minute drive or a 20-minute walk from the center of Sorrento. It's 32 miles to Naples International Airport, which can take an hour or more to reach by car depending on traffic. Sorrento's train station is located off Piazza Angelina Lauro, where the commuter rail service (Circumvesuviana) connects to Naples Garibaldi/Central Station. From Naples via ferry, it's a 40-minute ride from Mollo Beverello to Sorrento's Marina Piccola.

Hotel Corallo Sorrento's colorful, airy rooms have decor that plays on themes of sand and surf, using all neutrals or striking hues of mango, turquoise, and marigold. Conch shells and starfish are printed on fabrics covering headboards, and alluring, bright red coral is a recurring motif throughout. There are arched niches in walls for small sculptures and Mediterranean accents in the breezy patterns on floor and wall tile. Wooden double doors open to terraces with views of manicured gardens or the Gulf of Naples. 

All rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, safes, and desks; however, in some, furnishings have worn edges and flat-screen TVs are small. There are no iPod docks, coffeemakers, or kettles, and minibars are virtually devoid of snacks. Also, the hotel skips freebies like tea and bottled water.

Amenities are kicked up a notch in bathrooms, which have bidets, walk-in rainfall showers, and tubs. Bath products are generic and although tiles are well maintained, the designs can look dated. The hotel only has a few higher-end rooms which add bathrooms with whirlpools and slippers, and larger terraces with loungers. 

Features here are dreamy, but not quite complete as there isn't a fitness center or spa. The heated infinity pool and whirlpool is the hotel's crown jewel, surrounded by rows of loungers on the patio and a small lawn, but there's no fitness center or spa. Those who prefer the beach can take advantage of La Marinella just below the hotel, which can be reached via footpath or elevator. Vouchers are provided to offset the daily rate.  

The hotel's restaurant serves regional modern Italian cuisine, putting an emphasis on local seafood, and has a free buffet breakfast with hot items such as eggs and bacon. In the lobby's atrium, a fully stocked bar mixes standard cocktails and offers wine by the glass. Room service is available. 

The hotel books frequent wedding parties and some guests say that it negatively impacts their stay, with late-night noise heard on lower floors. Some also note that they're not informed about parties in advance, when booking or checking in. 

There are concierge services. Wi-Fi throughout, using the public computer, and printing are all free. From May to October, the hotel runs a shuttle to Piazza Angelina Lauro, in the center of Sorrento. Expect charges added to the bill for daily parking.