Villa Cimbrone

Perched high on a promontory, Villa Cimbrone offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and the striking coastline below. Often hailed as the jewel of Ravello, this villa has a history that stretches back to the 11th century. It underwent a significant transformation in the early 20th century when it was renovated by British nobleman Lord Grimthorpe. The villa, with its sprawling gardens and stunning vistas, has become a hotspot for weddings, honeymoons, and receptions. Although the villa itself functions as a private 5-star hotel, the gardens are open to the public, making it perhaps the most unforgettable sight on the Amalfi Coast.

A hundred years ago, following its renovation, Villa Cimbrone became a favored retreat for London's famed Bloomsbury Group. This circle of early 20th-century intellectuals included luminaries like Virginia Woolf and Lytton Strachey. Other distinguished guests have included Winston Churchill, author E.M. Forster, and renowned economist Maynard Keynes. D.H. Lawrence, the author of "Lady Chatterley’s Lover," left his own unique mark on the villa's garden when he and a friend gave the Statue of Eve an impromptu, unauthorized coat of paint.

Visitors can explore the lush gardens, bursting with vibrant flowers and ancient statues, which seem to whisper stories of the past. The Terrace of Infinity, lined with marble busts, offers a panoramic view that seems to stretch endlessly into the horizon. Strolling through this historic garden feels like stepping back in time, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.