Not many can say they grew up in a hotel (unless you count Eloise, that is), but the owners of the Hotel Poseidon in Positano did just that—and with the Amalfi Coast as their backdrop.  

Stay Inside the Hotel Poseidon in Positano, Italy

The family-run place was, however, never intended to be a hotel. When the occupants noticed the tremendous influx of visitors to the area, however, they decided to make the transformation. Today it is operated by Monica Aonzo, daughter of the original owners, and her daughters, Lilian and Margherita Mascolo. 

“My grandparents bought the villa [in 1950] with the sole intention of keeping it as a home for the family,” says Liliana, who is the PR and Communications Manager. “So you can imagine their surprise when hospitality became the center of their lives. Now, it’s our lives, but we wouldn’t have it any other way.” 

The sisters, who now live at the hotel year round, watch as guests roam the halls they ran up and down as children, dine on the terrace where they shared many intimate family meals, and sleep in the rooms that once housed them. “It’s quite a unique and beautiful situation that not many get to experience!” 

The Rooms and Amenities at Hotel Poseidon

The Poseidon is located in the middle level hills of Positano, with 48 rooms and suites, all with views of the city and/or the sea. There is also a panoramic pool, an onsite restaurant, cocktail bar (as well as a just-opened “secret” one), and a spa. It’s one of those places that has pretty much everything you need and need never leave—but there is, of course, lots to see and experience in the area. It has platinum-level views at any time, of course, especially when the terraces are in bloom or when looking over the hills at dusk. (And any time you can paddle around in a pool while looking out over the sea is mighty special.)  

Rooms are grand but relaxed, the stone floors dotted with area rugs that provide the foundation for casually chic furniture. And while the palette is fairly subdued, there are dashes of cardinal red in the furnishings, pool towels, stair runners, and bathroom tiles—a dramatic contrast to all the blue of the sky and sea. 

Take a Joy Ride in Italy…

The Aonzo family has long had a passion for vintage cars and has collected many over the years, including a 1971 Volkswagen convertible Beetle that sits out front and can be taken for a spin by guests at no cost. (It’s a standard shift, in case you’re dreaming of driving it.) Margharita also gives private guided tours in the car, and bringing guests to lesser-known spots in and around Positano. 

“These places are all special to us because they’re off the beaten path and primarily frequented by those who live here. Tourists who visit the Amalfi Coast tend to have a very fast-paced experience, meaning they’re doing everything that they think they need to do to have a true Amalfi Coast experience,” says Liliana. 

That experience means enjoying the Coast at a slower pace, putting down one’s phone and walking quieter streets, eating in restaurants that are not social media must-stops. “We want people to really immerse themselves in the quaint towns, which requires a source in the know.” 

Hotel Poseidon Positano is open April through the end of October and remains one of the city’s oldest hotels.  

What to Do and Where to Go in Positano 

Here is the family’s list of their favorite “secret” places in the area, where guests can go to feel more like locals than tourists. These are spots the family enjoyed over the years or newer places they have grown to love. 

• Pansa in Amalfi is great for a sweet treat without the crowds 
• CREO Positano Glasses in Positano is perfect for a truly special souvenir. 
• St Andrea’s (Andrew’s) Cathedral in Amalfi is a great place for a moment of gratitude, 
• Valenti Positano in Positano is ideal for a true taste of the local food and beverage scene.  
• Pupetto Beach and Beach Club in Positano is the ideal spot for a beach day with the locals.  

Can’t make it out to Italy? Cook some of the best dishes throughout the region alongside Tucci in Italy season two.

Story by Stephen Treffinger
Photos From Hotel Poseidon

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