The B&B Fenice, is named after the exotic and mythical Egyptian bird and this local is certainly as exotic and beautiful as the name might suggest. It is by far one of our favourite establishments on the Amalfi Coast and not at all pretentious.
Nature takes centre stage here and over 6 gardeners work full time at La Fenice to keep up the estate's lavish appearance. The scent of Mediterranean flowers, the sweet basil and tomatoes that are grown onto the cliffside terraces combine to create an aroma akin to heaven. The enchanting views of the sea make this quiet and tranquil spot an ideal place to enjoy your stay on the Amalfi Coast at a price that won't break the bank.
The B&B Fenice is by no means grand in terms of the number of bedrooms and the rooms are small, but luminous bedrooms, three with terraces that offer inspirational views of Positano and the Amalfi Coast. They are simply decorated and sparsely furnished with an occasional antique armoire or bureau in a wing off the family’s home. The rooms do not have all the amenities of a hotel, but the the the location fully compensates.
Guests can leave their cars on the main road and descend tree shrouded steps to discover a white villa hidden amidst the lush Mediterranean vegetation. The owners, Costantino and Angela Mandara, will heartily welcome new arrivals on the shady front terrace, where a basic continental breakfast is served each clement morning.
Seven luminous bedrooms, three with terraces and incredibly beautiful, are simply and sparsely furnished with an occasional antique armoire or bureau in a wing off the family’s home. The rooms do not have all the amenities of a hotel, but the the location fully compensates.
Eight more rooms of varying dimensions, most with terraces, reached by many steps down from the road, are built separately into the side of the cliff and have colourful, tiled floors and similar furnishings.
Descending yet more steps, you’ll come to the curved seawater pool and Jacuzzi carved against the rock (open June to October), where guests can enjoy lunch during summer months. Guests who might want to have lunch elsewhere - or simply enjoy a cruise in the waters around the Amalfi Coast, can board a boat at the private beach below. The beach also offers a great jumping in place for a relaxing swim.
Most mornings, weather permitting, breakfast will be served near the bar under a pergola entwined with gently scented bougainvillea. Your hosts will be pleased to offer you an Italian breakfast, or even a breakfast with international flair - English or American style. The bar is open all day to provide a quiet corner where you can relax with a drink and enjoy the views.
Angela & Costantino will be happy to assist you in renting a scooter, arranging car or boat transfers and in suggesting an array of itineraries to places along the Amalfi Coast.
The only disadvantage to some travellers in staying here are the stairs... but when on the Amalfi coast, there is little you can do to avoid them. This is a cute, beautifully done little abode, that most travellers stop in and don't want to leave.
