Belvedere, Amalfi Coast

From our initial check in where the young lady in reception made us feel most welcome, to the day we left, we could not have enjoyed our experience at the Belvedere any more. Obviously you get the views, scenery and setting with this location and this definitely lived up to (and exceeded) all expectations. However, the thing that really stood out to us was how fantastic all the staff were. Reception staff were always lovely and friendly and the rooms were kept immaculate by the cleaners. When it comes to the bar service and meals, this was exceptional. Ventura makes the most amazing cocktails and is the ultimate professional in all he does, we enjoyed many chats with him in the evenings. From the breakfasts in the morning to the evening meals, the food was excellent. Giuseppe the maître de was amazing with his knowledge and attention to detail, his whole team were fantastic. I practised a little Italian each evening with Francesco who made each evening meal special. Last but definitely not least, the pool area was fabulous with stunning views of the coast line, steps down to the sea and a lovely relaxing atmosphere. Antonio and Giuseppe ensured you were always greeted with a smile, had fresh towels and greeted us by name each day. This is a true case of not if we go back, but when we go back.... Many thanks Belvedere.... Jane, Chris, Vanessa and Paul (Room 136 and Room 135)

Couldn't fault the hotel, beautiful views, lovely room and very attentive staff. Nice pool area with plenty of sunbeds, pool towels are provided. The bus stop is right outside the hotel and it's just 2.50 euros to Positano or Amalfi. If I was holidaying in the area I would definitely stay here again.

Pros: Breathtaking views, a lovely pool situated half way down to the sea and steps to the shore. Cons: where to start... The hotel feels like a tired three star hotel with glimpses of a grander past. Furnishings and rooms are simple if a little bare (and poorly equipped- no iron or tea/coffee making facilities), showing signs of real wear and tear with cracks, exposed unpainted repairs to walls, knackered awning on our terrace. The food was at times okay and at times poor such that we left it uneaten. One of us being vegetarian was usually catered for by the removal of the fish or meat from a pasta dish and little attempt was made to be innovative. The service was the incredibly mixed with some instances of quite the worst I can recall mixed with some friendly and helpful members of staff. The maitre d was caring and helpful. At the other extreme, the bar waiter who ran the bar single handed was gruff and taciturn but on occasions was very rude. At times he was angry about his workload muttering under his breath, being deliberately unhelpful when we asked for a prosecco recommendation. The pool guy angrily pointed out the closing time of the pool (which was 6.30, rather a shame as the evenings were light till 7.30/8) to any guests arriving at the pool from as early as 5.30 as if they had transgressed an obvious and serious rule. Management was variable. Not allowing guests to dine from the terrace or being given a choice was unreasonable. Asked to walk to a local restaurant when asked to book a taxi was unacceptable. To add to all of this, it is difficult getting anywhere from the hotel. They do run a good shuttle service which was very useful (for which they charge) to Amalfi but only until 5pm. The hotel website advertises a shuttle to amalfi but omits to mention the very limited hours. You are then looking at the most extortionate taxis costs (average Euro 50 for a 10 minute journey!). Luckily we were close to excellent local restaurants Eg Baglio and Ciccio and Cicicio does provide a free shuttle. Very disappointing. This could be a wonderful hotel given the stunning views.