Is the Amalfi Coast on your list of places to visit? It is astonishing just how many people have added this area of Italy’s coast to their “bucket lists.” Magical, postcard-like views of the sea and the stunning cliffs, charming villages and towns, winding roads, and flawless waters are all part of the appeal. However, many people assume it is only a good destination in the summer months.
While it is true that there is a rainy season, that is usually November into December, and the rest of the winter months just improve each day – in terms of the weather and conditions. The same can be said of the traffic. As one expert on the region noted, “If you love quiet towns and the soothing atmosphere of the seaside in the off-season and would prefer to explore the coast without the snarls of traffic and crowds, then visiting between November and March might be for you.”
Typically, tourism season comes to a fairly sharp end in November, but businesses remain open for the long term and the weather is often balmier than many imagine – with daytime temperatures in even the “coldest” months averaging a comfortable 55 degrees Fahrenheit. The most popular town, Positano, is much quieter in the winter, but nearby towns like Amalfi are active and busy. Most shops there remain open throughout, and there are plenty of sights and attractions to keep you busy on even a cooler or wetter winter day. Sorrento and Ravello are also great destinations during the winter months, with each offering a unique atmosphere that reflects the calm and tranquility that descends with the arrival of the cooler, wetter weather.
If you are someone who appreciates that peace and sense of calm that arrives in the off-season spots that are more popular in the sunny summer months, you will love the atmosphere of the Amalfi Coast in winter. And there are five great spots to stay and appreciate it all.
Five Luxury Villas to Make Your Amalfi Coast Holiday a Dream
While the major hotels may close up shop as November arrives, or after the Christmas holidays, there are scores of luxurious villas that can be enjoyed as Amalfi Coast destinations of their own. Just consider:
Villa Vicere
In the Positano region, it is a 12-bedroom luxury villa above the town. While the views alone are more than enough to make it a flawless destination for easing the winter blues, it is also a full-staffed and picturesque property that is much like a private estate rather than a villa.
There is a chef, butler and housekeeping team, gardens and manicured grounds with a small orchard to enjoy. Positano is 150 steps from the grounds, and the kitchens can be well-stocked for your arrival. The furnishings are inspired by the ancient history of the region, and every window or corner of this expansive property is a visual delight. There is even a cooking class booked for each rental!
If you are eager to get away with family or friends or host a destination event in the region’s off season, this is the right choice.
Villa Nume
Also in the Positano area, this four-bedroom villa is another visual treat. It also features a chef and housekeeping team, and the pool offers stunning views of the sea beyond. Savor your own unimpeded views of the coastline from the expansive terraces, and marvel at the gorgeous interiors that are a unique blend of antique, modern, and transitional styles. Lounges, salons, and bedrooms designed to emulate luxury suites make this the perfect base from which to enjoy a winter visit, or as the ideal winter destination all on its own.
Villa Dorata
If sea cliff views of the Positano area are a goal, you enjoy them from your private and beautiful terrace when you book at this five-bedroom gem. Sitting brightly above the region, this gorgeous and opulently appointed home is a true architectural masterpiece.
With its bold terra cotta colored exterior, stepped terraces featuring salons, fountains and al fresco dining, it will never fail to appeal to all who visit. There is a private chef, butler and housekeeping team to meet every need, and even if the weather does not cooperate, the interiors are so beautiful and cheerful that the visit is sure to be a success. The indoor pool is also there to guarantee fun and relaxation at all times and the fireplaces in the salons add to the warmth and opulence of the setting.
Villa Pamina
Sitting high above Positano, this six-bedroom gem is another great spot to choose for a winter season visit. The sun will rain down on you as you relax on your private terraces, bask by the pool, enjoy an al fresco meal, explore the gardens and grounds (including an amazing orchard of espaliered fruit trees beautiful at any season), or lounge inside. The sunny colored hues of the décor make it appear that the rooms are brightly lit from within and without, and this holds true whether in the lounges, the kitchen, or the airy and spacious bedrooms.
Though this is a self-catering villa, it is close to town and lets visitors easily walk to local shops, markets and cafes.
Villa Aldana
Tucked into the hills above Sorrento, this four-bedroom beauty has unmatched views of the waters and islands below. The enormous pool terrace faces out over the cliffs and promises amazing sunset and sunrise experiences. The gardens and grounds are ideal in the warmer months, but are just as welcoming even in the chillier winter weather as they feature gazebos and furnished with oversized sofas and chairs.
Inside, the modern and clean lines of the design make this a warm and welcoming spot for groups or families enjoying a winter break. A large and beautifully appointed kitchen makes it fun and easy to whip up meals, snacks or drinks, and the bright and airy bedrooms all offer sea views or private balconies.
There are many luxury rentals in Amalfi Coast for winter breaks and getaways, and whether you stay for a few days or a few weeks, it is sure to be one of your most memorable experiences of this gorgeous stretch of Italian coast.