Villa Scarpariello

Simple B&B rooms and weekly apartments, with tiered gardens around a Norman watchtower, and a pool overhanging the rocky coast

Sail the Amalfi coast and you might spot a string of Norman watchtowers along the rocky shore, and wonder who is lucky enough to own one. The answer, in this case, is Prince Luigi d'Angerio di Sant'Agata; but a huge tax bill means we are the lucky ones. Three outhouses, built to accommodate his friends in the 1970's, have now been converted into a variety of rooms and apartments leased by the enterprising Dipino family who own the adjacent and highly successful Villa San Michele.

From the Amalfi-Minori road, paths bordered with marble busts lead down, past the 1000-year-old tower, to immaculate gardens which burst with lemons, geraniums and palms. At the bottom is a vine-shaded breakfast terrace with majestic sea views, and a crenellated swimming pool which literally overhangs the water. The same goes for the guesthouses: waves fizz below your balcony, while the sound of gurgling water lulls you to sleep.

Highs

• One of the finest settings on the coast, with sweeping views of the sea and the jagged mountains behind Minori
• A spectacularly sited swimming pool, and easy access into the sea (or into hired boats) from a private little quay
• We loved sitting in the well-groomed gardens among imperial statues and Norman stonework
• Delightful staff - and family-friendly too
• Good value in an expensive area

Lows

• Interiors, while spacious and functional, are dated and plain (though the Dipinos are gradually updating the oldest bathrooms)
• Minimum stay of 3 days (rooms) / 7 days (apartments) – but plenty to keep you busy
• It gets booked up for the summer as early as Feb-March, so plan ahead
• Don't expect to stay in the watchtower – it's reserved for the owner
• You have to dine out, or (in the apartments) cook for yourself in simple kitchens, and breakfast is very poor