New Boutique Hotel to open on Amalfi Coast

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Introducing Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel and Spa. This exclusive boutique hotel and luxury spa converted from a 17th century monastery will open on the Amalfi Coast in May 2012, suspended over the Bay of Salerno on Italy’s iconic Amalfi Coast.

Formerly a 17th Century monastery, the hotel will consist of 20 guest rooms and suites - all with sea views - a restaurant, a heated infinity pool, stunning landscaped gardens spread over five tiers, a historic herb garden and a private 12th Century Chapel.

There will also be a spectacular and unique spa that has been created within a labyrinth of historic monastic spaces and outdoor pavilions. The hotel stands along the famed Blue Highway near the quaint fishing village of Conca dei Marini and is located close to Positano, Amalfi and Ravello. It is built directly into the side of the cliff with the floors connected by a glass front elevator allowing panoramic views of the hotel’s gardens and the sea.  

The hotel is owned by American Bianca Sharma, who by chance caught sight of the property whilst travelling the area in 1999. She was immediately captivated, in part because the building offered one of the most dramatic locations in the world. After acquiring the building she set about working closely with a local team of architects, engineers and historical authorities for over ten years to transform the former monastery into a luxury hotel and spa whilst maintaining the integrity of the building.

Given its heritage, the building has been respectfully restored to honour its roots and traditions. Suites are decorated with historical photographs of the area and the monastery itself, adding to the sense of history. The vaulted ceilings and arched windows of the nun’s rooms and refectory have been carefully preserved and are cleverly linked together with en suite bathrooms to create truly contemporary spaces. The grounds feature a heated infinity pool, stunning landscaped gardens, and a private herb garden, all situated over five terraced levels.

Attached to the hotel by tiered gardens is the hotel’s own private 12th century chapel, making the perfect wedding venue. For a completely unique venue the entire property is available for exclusive hire, turning into a palatial Italian villa for guests personal use.

A stand-out feature of the hotel is its extraordinary Spa which keeps the original 17th century vaulted ceilings and many of its rustic walls. There is a Thermal Suite which interconnects to a series of historic monastic spaces.  This includes a stunning double height vaulted Tepidarium (warm relaxing room) with heated benches and whirlpool footbaths, a domed herbal Steam Room, a Crushed Ice Fountain to refresh between thermal baths, a wood Sauna, Hydrotherapy Pool and Experience Shower.  A further unique concept is the “spa within a spa” which is ideal for couples, friends and small groups to enjoy. It comprises a Rasul, Steam Room with mosaic tiles that form individual seating, two wet treatment tables, two dry treatment beds, relaxation area accommodating manicures/pedicures and footbaths, and a private dressing and grooming space. The area also offers a private garden terrace with loungers, a table for light lunches and views of the coastline and the sea.   

Beyond this is the Private Walled Outdoor Treatment Pavilion located under a shaded canopy.  Treatments will be provided here for those guests who want to experience the special air and light of this region whilst enjoying a luxurious treatment. The panoramic views and sounds of the magnificent, untamed coast help provide an oasis for anyone wanting an escape.

The treatments are enhanced by Santa Maria Novella oils, creams and lotions handmade in a quaint factory in Florence. The products follow the ancestral tradition of Italian herbalists, using plants and flowers known for their healing powers as traditionally grown in the monasteries.

The Hotel’s Ristorante featuring original vaulted ceilings, will offer cuisine from the Campania region. Fresh local seafood, locally produced olive oil, and organically grown vegetables and herbs from the hotels garden are used to create delicious dishes.  The Executive Chef, Christoph Bob will bring with him a vast amount of experience, having held chef positions in some of the top restaurants throughout Europe such as Alain Ducasse’s three Michelin star restaurant at the Plaza Athenee in Paris and Torre del Saracino – a two Michelin star restaurant in nearby Naples.

Monastero Santa Rosa will open on May 17th 2012 and will be featured by many of the UK’s top luxury tour operators.  Rooms start from €375 plus Tax on a b&b basis.