Villa Il Frantoio

We spent six nights in the two-bedroom ‘Lilmar’ apartment. The pool area was a lovely place to unwind with that magnificent view, and our rooms were spacious and well equipped. Breakfast was included, tasty, and different each morning. Giulio, Giacomo, Cristina, Tony and Aruno made us feel like family. Giacomo and Cristina helped with dining and activity ideas, set up a local cooking class and an Amalfi Coast boat tour, and gave us hiking directions. Nothing seemed like too much trouble. Praiano was a real gem for us, calmer than Amalfi or Positano. I’d stay here and visit the busier towns for the day. Cristina also sent detailed arrival directions and a time-lapse driving video showing where Aruno would meet us to help with our bags. We had a rental car and parked close to the villa for all six days; other guests we spoke with had come by bus, water bus, or taxi. About the steps: the direct way involves around 200, while the easier route from above has maybe 70, with short paths in between. You’ll find steps wherever you stay on the Amalfi Coast, and they’re part of the experience, so don’t let them put you off. We took our time and had no problem. Staff can help with luggage between the villa and your parking spot or taxi or bus drop-off.

The walk up to this villa is a bit of a hike, so it could be tough for an older guest or anyone carrying a lot of luggage. Still, the place was absolutely worth the extra effort, and we’ll definitely come back. The pool was gorgeous at sunset, with views of Positano and Capri. Giacomo and Christina were so kind, the breakfast was soooo yummy, and the fridge had drinks stocked with an honor system for poolside drinks.

We had a wonderful three days in Praiano. The accommodation was lovely, with beautiful views, freshly cooked breakfast, delicious coffee, and great chats and advice. Thank you, Giacomo, your father Guido, and Cristina.

Praiano was a great base for us, much calmer than the bustle of Amalfi and Positano. Frantoio sits between the two, with views of Positano, the mountains, and the sunset. It’s 200 steps down to the Main Street, where there are good restaurants within a ten-minute walk. The villa is family-run, quiet, and small, with six rooms and one apartment that suits a family or two couples. The grounds are beautiful, full of flowers, fruit trees, and their own garden, plus a small pond feature with plants and dish. There’s also a heated pool and hot tub. We visited in May, when the evenings were cool. Our room had a comfortable bed and pillows, plenty of space, and its own grass terrace with loungers and a table and chairs overlooking the coast. The mini kitchenette was a fun extra, with a stocked bar fridge, sink, dishes, and hot plate. Breakfast was served on the covered terrace or outside on the deck. There was lots of variety, and Giacomo, who runs the place, and Tony made eggs and bacon. The cappuccinos were a highlight. Cristina was a fabulous host, happy to help with recommendations and concierge needs. Thanks also to Arun for keeping the room sparkling and helping with our bags, which is no small thing with those stairs and hills. If mobility is an issue, this may not suit you: the way down to the Main Street is 200 steep steps. Giacomo has a boat, so ask about a cruise, though there are other local options too. Sergio lives above the villa and offers cooking classes, but our timing didn’t work out. We did hike the Path of the Gods to Positano. It was hard work, but the views were off the charts. There are also two pebble and rock beaches in town, and the water is beautiful. Thank you for such an amazing stay and experience! ❤️