Villa San Giacomo in Positano

My brother and his bride booked the whole villa for their wedding, so my husband and I got to experience Positano with family and friends. The views were beautiful, and the staff treated us like royalty. We did run into a few familiar issues, like ants and a shortage of hot water, but the staff's kindness and service mattered more to us. Highly recommend staying here.

The private chef's meals were incredible, and we toasted her every evening. We also loved having prosecco and aperitivo by the pool, daily maid service, and time to relax on the vine covered veranda. Chiara, the house manager, and her staff take care of every detail and make the stay feel perfect. I've just returned from my sixth stay at Villa San Giacomo, this time in October 22. Friends and I meet there every year, and each time it's hard to leave. From the moment I arrive at the port, it feels like coming home for the week. Friendly porters take our luggage, which usually gets to the villa before I do. You can take a taxi or an intercity bus for most of the journey, but I wouldn't miss the magical walk up, with its breathtaking sea view. It's one of the most spectacular properties in Positano, and I'm already looking forward to going back.

The breakfast was nice, and the view is beautiful, but my stay was very disappointing. There was no hot water last night or this morning. The manager said she'd fixed it, but when we checked again tonight it still wasn't working. The villa was opposite very loud construction that shook our room and woke us up. It made relaxing by the pool impossible for most of the day, and no one mentioned the work when we arrived. We were also not told about the 80'euro porter service or the very long, steep, stressful walk to the villa. We expected a climb in Positano, but knowing the cost might have led us to book a better room elsewhere. No one working here offered help, and Villa Manager Chiara argued with me instead of addressing these problems. She was quite rude. In Australia, the customer is always right and their needs come first. Don't waste your time or money here.

We had sunset drinks and a wonderful breakfast on the huge, wide deck overlooking all of Positano. The gardens and pool are beautiful, too. Gennaro was our host and manager, and he was helpful, attentive, and relaxed throughout our visit. This is an extraordinary villa, hotel, and home. The 400 year old property has been tastefully restored, so you can feel its history and soul while still enjoying the modern features of a world class hotel. Highly recommend it. You feel Italy's history in every room, along with the Amalfi ambience.