Number of Rooms: 58

Location: At the center of Positano – in the spilled jewel box that is the town’s hillside, look for the ruby.

In a world where travel trends change on a dime (or a hashtag), Le Sirenuse stands apart. John Steinbeck wrote about it in his 1953 Harper’s article on Positano, and young European royals still hide away in the airy rooms today. Everyone checking in through the generations becomes a guest of the inimitable Sersale family, who has called the house, with its central location and distinctive deep red exterior, home for two hundred and fifty years. The décor is authentic and elegant, with museum-worthy antiques paired with thought-provoking modern pieces (Antonio and Carla Sersale have begun a contemporary art initiative that sees them commission a site-specific work from an emerging young artist each year). The pool area is one of the most relaxing places along the Amalfi, and their vine-bedecked restaurant, La Sponda, is studded with thousands of lit candles and serves some of the area’s freshest seafood.

What We Loved: The breakfast spread is the stuff of legend – table upon table of fresh-baked cakes and pastry, local meats and cheeses, tropical fruits, and hot a la carte entrees served to order on whimsical hand-painted local ceramic dishes. Plus, endless mimosas made with fresh-squeezed juices. (Can someone remind us why do we not all live at Le Sirenuse?)

What We Didn’t Love: Le Sirenuse is one of the most iconic summer properties anywhere on earth, which means it books up while you may still be wrapping Christmas presents.

Right For: Romantics and honeymooners. Perfect as a final stop on any Italian tour.

Wrong For: Travelers who want full-on resort facilities and grounds, or who are looking for a private beach.

Best Time to Visit: Peak season (and pricing) is in July and August; visit in June or September to miss at least some of the crowds.

TLF Tip: The hills behind Posi offer incredible (and strenuous) hiking, the payoff at the top being views to Capri and beyond. Antonio and Carla will be happy to recommend a path or arrange a private guide to get you up and away from the crowds as you earn your nightly spaghetti and rosé.