Hotel Palazzo Murat

Location, location, location! These three little words sum up Palazzo Murat’s distinct advantage over its counterparts in Positano, a gem of a vacation town set into the cliffs of the gorgeous Amalfi coastline. The incredibly steep incline of the city’s streets and staircases make it challenging for families; the fact that Palazzo Murat is situated smack dab in the heart of Positano cuts out a lot of the climbing and taxi rides that guests of its competitors contend with. Steps from the hotel, visitors are swept away in the ambiance of this quaint beach town, with its boutiques (selling ceramics, housewares, handmade sandals, jewelry, perfume and clothing), as well as its lovely restaurants and charming cafes. Palazzo Murat offers an oasis of calm from this relative hustle and bustle, characterized by a distinct and charming old world elegance that defines the space and sets it a cut above.

Other perks for families include lemonade upon arrival, a decadent (and complimentary) breakfast buffet served on the veranda, a 24-hour spot-on concierge service, free boat excursions along the coastline with a stop to swim every day in summer, a nice pool with lounge chairs, and a garden in the courtyard where children can wander and vegetables are grown for the hotel’s restaurant. Rooms are small but lovely, and some in the 1960’s addition boast large terraces. Suites and connecting rooms are available, as is a gorgeous and unadvertised apartment (with plenty of advance notice). The beach, swimming in the sea, and day trips to Capri, Amalfi and Sorrento round out this destination as a pitch perfect one for families.