Le Sirenuse
By the Destination Traveller editors · 30 October 2026
Positano, Amalfi Coast, Italy
Le Sirenuse is the hotel that defines Positano: an 18th-century villa turned hotel by the Sersale family in 1951, still run by them today, and looking straight across the town's tumbling houses and majolica-domed church to the sea. It is colourful, warm and glamorous, and in spring or autumn it is simply magical.
Best for: Couples who want the quintessential Positano view in a family-run grand hotel.
Where it is
The hotel sits high in the centre of Positano, a few minutes' walk (and many steps) above the beach. Naples airport is about 90 minutes by car; boats from the beach reach Amalfi, Capri and the coast's villages. See our Amalfi Coast in the shoulder season.
Rooms and suites
There are 58 rooms and suites, each different, with white walls repainted every winter, vaulted ceilings, antiques, hand-painted tiles and terraces facing the sea. Book a sea-view room with a terrace; some suites have their own hot tubs.
Food, spa and the rest
La Sponda is lit by hundreds of candles each evening, with musicians playing and cooking that celebrates Naples, Vesuvius and the coast. Aldo's is the champagne and seafood bar, the Pool Bar serves lunch beside the famous pool with its view of Positano, and Franco's Bar is the place to watch the sunset. There is a spa and gym, and the hotel's beach club, Le Sirenuse Mare, opens daily from 10am to sunset.
The moment
Dinner at La Sponda as the candles are lit one by one and Positano glows across the bay.
Why we chose it
Few hotels have such a sense of place or such a loyal following. Family ownership shows in every detail, from the art and design to the warm, attentive service, and the view from the pool is one of the best on the coast.
When to go
April, May, late September and October are best: warm days, swimmable sea in autumn and none of the summer crowds. The hotel is seasonal, typically open from spring to autumn; check dates.
The longer stay
Stay three or four nights in Positano, taking boats to Capri, Amalfi and Ravello, then move up to Ravello for its gardens, or to Sorrento for Pompeii.
Part of our Big Trip
The Amalfi Coast in the Shoulder Season
From about £4,000 per person
Questions
Who owns Le Sirenuse?
The Sersale family, who opened their villa as a hotel in 1951 and still run it.
How many rooms are there?
58 rooms and suites.
Is there a beach?
The hotel's beach club, Le Sirenuse Mare, opens daily from 10am to sunset.
Is it open all year?
No, the hotel is seasonal. Check opening dates when planning.
Are there many steps?
Positano is built on a cliff; expect steps, though the hotel itself is well arranged.
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