This Hotel Has Been Described As The Most Beautiful Place On Earth

A new book on Villa Treville captures the glamorous past and present of this Amalfi Coast gem …

Perched above the Tyrrhenian Sea on a secluded cliff overlooking Positano, Villa Treville is regarded as one of the world’s most exclusive boutique hotels. It’s also the former home of Italian opera director, Franco Zeffirelli, who purchased the villa in the 1960s as a private estate before it became a luxury hotel in 2009.

Through his vision, Zeffirelli shaped the 18th-century property into what he referred to as his “dream world” with opulent interiors featuring theatrical designs akin to his lavish sets, including props from La Scala and The Metropolitan Opera, as well as his own collection of priceless antiques and objets. Original ceramic tiles, Syrian mother-of-pearl and filigree furniture, plus an array of books from Zeffirelli’s personal library, ensure that every corner tells a story.

Adding to its allure, Villa Treville is the subject of a new book published by Assouline, co-written by co-owner and MD Govind Friedland with Belfast-born travel journalist Nicky Swallow. They have shared rare historical imagery and insider stories, in addition to highlighting the hotel’s singular design. Central to this is the 18 levels of cascading gardens, which include vine covered walkways, native pines and tropical plants.

In the past, the Villa served as a bolt hole for the likes of Coco Chanel, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, Maria Callas and Liza Minnelli. Now it’s a gem on the Amalfi Coast where its hidden pools, and La Traviata spa (with treatments by Dr Barbara Sturm) and iconic Bianca Bar are the apotheosis of quiet luxury. The hotel’s restaurant Maestro’s is inspired by the ingredients from Treville’s organic farm. For opera enthusiasts, some of Zeffirelli’s original sketches are available to view upon request.

Zefferelli’s biographer called Villa Treville, “just possibly, the most beautiful place on Earth.” Find more luxury stays on the Amalfi Coast in THE GLOSS June issue.