Sorrento's just about romantic views. And the Grand Hotel Riviera's got them in spades. From its cliff-top perch, the hotel gazes out across the Bay of Naples, and on clear days you can see Mount Vesuvius brooding on the horizon. And with turquoise seas stretching for as far as the eye can see, the sun terrace and pool area take full advantage of the hotel's prime position too.
On the subject of location, the Riviera's tucked into a residential part of Sorrento and is backed by orange and lemon trees - making it the splendid choice if tranquillity tops your holiday wish list. But that's not to say it's out of the way. You can walk into the centre of town in about 10 minutes or so, where boutiques and cafe culture are in no short supply.
As to the hotel itself, it takes a hint of antique Regency, a splash of kitsch and a whole lot of minimalism to create a look that exudes Italian style and understated cool all at the same time. As the name suggests, it's 'grand' – although maybe not in the traditional sense. Dinnertime is a particularly lavish affair with waiters decked out in full penguin regalia and smart dress required. Oh, and the food's out of this world.
Other talking points include a lift which whisks you from the hotel down to a private bathing platform and a hydro-massage falling withing the pool. Add service that's the talk of the town and you're in for a real treat. All in all, the Grand Hotel Riviera's really rather special. No wonder it's won so many of our Gold Awards over the years.
Grand Hotel Riviera can be found in the charming resort of Sorrento which is located on the Neapolitan Riviera. The Neapolitan Riviera is is set around the Bay of Naples and arguably it occupies the most picturesque spot in the Mediterranean. With vistas over the bay of Naples with magnificent views towards Capri and Mount Vesuvius in one of the most beautiful corners of the Mediterranean.
With tiny beaches of basaltic sands and a wealth of ancient history so there is a selection of activities to pass the time. For those who enjoy a little retail therapy a sojourn to Sorrento's Corso Italia is not to be missed. There are plenty of boutiques and designer shops that lace this glamourous walkway. If you're after that must-have handbag the latest italian fashions are always in stock.
On the eating front the Neapolitan Riviera pulls out all the stops. Relax in a little piazza, order an espresso and settle down for some serious people watching. Or perhaps search out a chic restaurant and enjoy a sumptuous meal. Whatever your choice there will be a bar or restaurant to suit you.
Famed for its thermal spas, Ischia it's just the place if you fancy being pampered from head to toe.
Sorrento Italy is situated in Campania, southern Italy and is a popular holiday destination. Teetering on the edge of a cliff top that plummets into the sea, this charming town enjoys a wonderful position looking out over the bay of Naples towards Mount Vesuvius. Naples and Pompeii are within reach as the town is on the south-eastern terminus of the Circumvesuviana rail line. Boats and express hydrofoils provide services to Naples, Amalfi, Positano, Capri and Ischia.
Grand Hotel Riviera is a perfect base from which to explore both Sorrento, with it's wealth of history and further afield along of the Neapolitan riviera.
If you stay at Grand Hotel Riviera a visit to Piazza Tasso, the main square is a must. Piazza Tasso is named after the Italian poet, Torquato Tasso. This stunning square is edged with cafes and restaurants and is the perfect place to enjoy a Margherita pizza, which originated in Naples or a spaghetti with the world acclaimed Neapolitana sauce.
Not far from Piazza Tasso is an place known as the Drains which is a maze of interesting medieval alleyways stuffed with stores selling local produce like Limoncello and hand crafted wooden goods.
If you are seeking sunshine, panoramic views and fantastic restaurants offering good food then Sorrento has to tick all the right boxes