High on a clifftop where 17th-century Dominican nuns once contemplated life's greater meanings, this reimagined monastery now offers rather more earthly pleasures. The views alone are worthy of divine praise – sweeping vistas of the glittering Gulf of Salerno that stretch from a tiny fishing village below all the way to the horizon. Inside, vaulted ceilings and ancient stone walls whisper tales of the past.
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Each of the 20 rooms and suites occupies what was once a nun's cell, though we'd wager the current incarnations are somewhat more luxurious. Jerusalem stone bathrooms with heated floors and rain showers have replaced more austere washing facilities, while the rooms themselves blend monastic architecture with decidedly un-monastic comforts. Each is named after an herb the nuns would have grown in their gardens (a lovely touch), and all command views that stretch from the fishing harbor below to the endless blue beyond. Eight suites offer private terraces where you can breathe in the fragrant Mediterranean air – and perhaps offer a small prayer of thanks for such good fortune.
The infinity pool that seems to float between sky and sea – it's the kind of spot that makes you question whether you really need to visit any other part of the coast at all.
Book a table at the Michelin-starred Il Refettorio well in advance. Chef Alfonso Crescenzo's menu pays homage to both local ingredients and the property's monastic history – though we suspect the nuns never dined quite this well.
The location, while spectacularly perched, means you'll need transport to explore the coast's famous towns. But trust us, tearing yourself away from those views is the real challenge
Start with a recommended trip or create one from scratch
Monastero Santa Rosa 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 Monastero Santa Rosa 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 Monastero Santa Rosa start from around $390, or US$390, 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 heady blend of cerulean waters & old-world glamour on the world’s most theatrical coastline.
