It was both an honor and a pleasure when the management of Massa Lubrense Villa Capriana invited me to be their guest for a ten-day stay as a luxury lifestyle ambassador. My mission was to share my experiences along the Amalfi Coast with the world through the media and my YouTube channel.

I was thrilled by the trust they placed in me, allowing me to capture the essence of the climate, the beauty of the villa, and the surroundings, all from my unique perspective.

A LUXURIOUS HOLIDAY

Villa Capriana, a historical treasure, stands as an exceptional example of a 17th-century Italian villa. It offers breathtaking views of the island of Capri and the stunning Amalfi and Sorrento coasts—widely regarded as some of the most romantic and beautiful coastlines in the world. The villa, historically known as Villa Murat, is located in the village of Santa Maria Annunziata, offering an unparalleled view of both the island of Capri and the Bay of Naples. Nearby attractions include the Sorrento Peninsula, the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, Naples, Mount Vesuvius, and the picturesque towns of the Amalfi Coast, including Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello.

Villa Capriana is a spectacular venue for luxury holidays, events, and weddings. With five beautifully appointed bedrooms, each featuring lavish bathrooms and lounges filled with antique furnishings, it guarantees an unforgettable stay.

Every room offers expansive windows or balconies with sea views and is richly decorated with antique furniture, painted ceilings, and 18th-century mosaics that adorn the staircase. One room remains preserved exactly as it was in 1808, when King Joachim Murat stayed here. Imagine waking up in the very room where the King of Naples once slept!

The villa’s façade is equally mesmerizing, especially when illuminated at night. The courtyard, with its artistic wrought-iron fence, cobblestone paths, and centuries-old olive trees, exudes charm and history. The windows and balconies bear the Sersala family coat of arms and inscriptions recalling King Joachim Murat’s 1808 conquest of Capri from the English during the Napoleonic Wars, when he resided here.

From Villa Capriana, it is easy to explore nearby coastal towns. The Amalfi Coast’s fifty-kilometer-long winding road is a special treat for driving enthusiasts, with its dramatic cliffs and lush slopes. For me, it was a luxurious adventure as I gracefully cruised along the roads, captivated by the endless terraced lemon groves, vineyards, and vibrant houses clinging to steep rocks. The journey takes you to dizzying heights where you find yourself surrounded by clouds, with the breathtaking view of the coast below. Each return to Villa Capriana was marked by a stunning sunset, followed by convivial dinners, wine, and the exchange of thoughts and stories about the day’s adventures.

POSITANO

Positano and the neighboring towns of the Amalfi Coast are a traveler’s dream. These enchanting places are steeped in tradition and charm, and visiting them at least once in a lifetime is a must. The crystal-clear sea, rugged nature, and colorful majolica domes of churches and homes perched on cliffs create a mesmerizing landscape. The Amalfi Coast takes its name from the town of Amalfi, which occupies a central position and has played a significant role in the region’s history. In the 9th century, Amalfi was one of the maritime republics that helped shape the Mediterranean’s future.

SORRENTO

Sorrento and its peninsula have been a sought-after destination for travelers since the 17th century. Before that, it was favored by ancient Romans who built their villas here. The Sorrentine Peninsula is a symphony of colors, flavors, and views, with picturesque bays and coastal vistas. Sorrento offers a variety of seaside resorts to cater to every taste. As I wandered through the city, discovering its hidden corners, bustling shops, charming churches, and cliffs, I felt as if I had stepped into a Dolce Vita movie. You can’t help but feel Mario Lanza’s “Torna a Surriento” (“Come Back to Sorrento”) song in your vains and everywhere you go. Its nostalgic and romantic lyrics express a longing for the return to Sorrento, capturing the essence of the town’s beauty and charm, and that is exactly what I felt upon my return to Villa Capriana.

AMALFI

Entering Amalfi and gazing at the 62 divine steps leading to the 9th-century Amalfi Cathedral took my breath away. Everywhere I turned, there was something new and fascinating to discover—Limoncello stands, lemons, and citrus-inspired treats at every turn! Though the town was a bit crowded for my taste, its allure and adventurous spirit were undeniable.

RAVELLO – THE CITY OF MUSIC

Ravello exceeded all my expectations! This charming town, known as the “City of Music,” is a romantic haven, far from the chaotic crowds. Its relaxed, polite residents and beautiful classical concerts make Ravello a place like no other. As I strolled through the streets, the sweet sound of a flute led me to a shop where the owner played expertly in the middle of his store. The air in Ravello is thick with romance. In just one afternoon, I witnessed four weddings, and I even found myself dancing at one—completely by chance, but what could I do when someone offers their hand to join in the celebration? Ravello draws lovers from all over the world to marry in this idyllic setting. I also met a cheerful group of elderly ladies from Northern Ireland, the aunts and mothers of one of the brides. I almost offered them a round of Limoncello to ease their nerves, but they assured me they had already enjoyed their share. Although I longed to stay longer and hear more of their stories, I had to move on. I bade them farewell and drove off into the sunset, my headscarf fluttering in the Amalfi breeze.