Grand Hotel Il Saraceno - Amalfi 5 stars

Part 5 star hotel, part fortress, part palace: Grand Hotel Il Saraceno, built into the cliffs of Amalfi, is the perfect example of how, on the Amalfi Coast, the traditions and culture of East and West meet and merge, to produce the epitome of Mediterranean elegance and style.

Like the hotel's public rooms, guest bedrooms are the result of a seductive mixture of Southern Italian and Middle Eastern influences. In each and every room, antique furniture and modern technology combine in an enticing concoction of old world glamour and contemporary comfort. Those looking for something really special, will need to book early to reserve the sumptuous "Soraya Suite", an authentic Sultan's boudoir, bang in the middle of the Amalfi Coast.

Grand Hotel Il Saraceno has two restaurants, both of which are inspired by the area's Moorish architectural traditions. The exotic Mashreq, with undulating ceiling supported by thick columns upholstered in damask, serves delicious Mediterranean cuisine. The perfect venue for an important gala dinner or high profile wedding reception, the stone walled dining room of the El Qusayr restaurant is characterized by Arabian style arches and gorgeous views of the sea.

From late spring to early autumn, guests staying at Grand Hotel il Saraceno might easily be found lazing by the hotel's panoramic swimming pool or soaking up the sun on the private beach. Using the hotel's shuttle service, guests quickly reach the historic center of Amalfi and the harbor, from where a boat to sail to the other beautiful little towns dotted along the Amalfi Coast can be hired.

Three good reasons

1. A day on the private beach, lapped by the sea surrounding Amalfi.
2. A night to remember in the luxurious, Suite Soraya.
3. The delicious Mediterranean cuisine served in the El Qusayr and Mashreq restaurants.