Villa Aiano

Villa Aiano sits on the terraced slopes above Capri, a pair of whitewashed villas wrapped in bougainvillea, roses and jasmine. From the gardens the view sweeps across the Bay of Naples to Mount Vesuvius and along to the Amalfi Coast, a panorama that changes colour from morning to night.

The villas have an old-world, gently aristocratic character, with vaulted rooms, arched doorways, window seats and double French doors opening onto the terraces. Six en-suite bedrooms sleep twelve, and a drawing room with a fireplace offers somewhere to gather on cooler evenings.

Life here is lived outdoors for much of the year. A pool stretches across the terraced hillside, and a summer kitchen with a traditional pizza oven and barbecue makes for long, informal lunches. Shaded dining areas and lounging spaces are scattered through the flower-filled gardens, threaded with olive trees and pines.

What makes Aiano truly unusual is its private funicular, hidden among the planting, which carries guests down towards the heart of the island. There is direct car access too, and the Piazzetta, Marina Piccola and the island's famous beach clubs are all close by. A gardener, pool attendant and daily housekeeping are included, and a chef, butler and concierge can be arranged.

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