High above the Bay of Naples, this grand dame has been turning heads since 1834. The scene is set the moment you step through the wrought iron gates - five acres of citrus gardens, three historic buildings, and a magnificent stone terrace that serves up show-stopping views of Mount Vesuvius brooding across the water. Duck into the music room where Wagner once composed, peek into the winter garden, or take the private elevator down to the port below. The whole place feels rather like stepping into a Fellini film, albeit one where the impeccable service and Michelin-starred cuisine remind you that you're very much in the here and now.
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Every nook and cranny tells a story, from intimate living rooms perfect for conspirators' whispers to the conservatory where sunshine streams through stained glass. The Terrazza Bosquet restaurant showcases stellar Michelin-starred fare (much of it plucked fresh from the grounds), while the more laid-back Orangerie serves up perfect pizzas poolside. Wellness seekers can retreat to La Serra spa, where treatments feature locally-sourced ingredients, or take a dip in the pool surrounded by fragrant citrus trees.
If walls could talk, these ones would tell tales of Oscar Wilde's witticisms and Wagner's melodies. The 1930s rooms are decidedly regal affairs, with frescoed ceilings soaring overhead, parquet floors underfoot, and antique furniture that's hosted more than its fair share of famous bottoms. Bathrooms continue the imperial theme with vast walk-in showers or substantial tubs perfect for a post-Vesuvius soak. Junior suites and above come with complimentary minibars, while interconnecting options make this surprisingly family-friendly. Each room offers its own take on that spellbinding bay view, though the suites' private terraces are particularly coveted spots for sunrise espresso.
The hotel's delightfully old-school charm extends to breakfast under original frescoes in the Sala Vittoria - think crystal chandeliers and white-gloved waiters.
For the best of both worlds, ask for one of the contemporary-styled rooms that still feature the original antique furniture - modern comfort with a dash of historical romance.
The grandeur can feel a touch formal at times - this isn't a place for flip-flops at dinner.
Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Italy trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Italy trips featuring Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria or get advice and suggestions from one of our Italy specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria start from around $670, or US$670, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.
A lemon-infused, clifftop haven on the sweeping Bay of Naples.
