TORRE D'ARTISTA
Positano on the famous Amalfi Coast, near Naples
Sleeps 11 in 7 bedrooms/6.5 bathrooms, overlooks the sea, private beach access, comes with staff and private boat service, wireless Internet
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Torre d'Artista is a unique seaside residence framed by the charming village of Positano on one side and a breathtaking view of the open sea on the other. One of the most prestigious homes on the entire Amalfi Coast, this unusual property offers privacy, beautiful surroundings, unique architecture, and a fascinating history. The Torre is set on a rocky outcrop jutting into the turquoise sea and can be reached only by boat (5 min.) or on a footpath (15 min.) from the beach. It is not possible to reach the house by car. There is a public parking lot approximately 15 minutes from the house, taxi-boat service is available 14/7 from the main beach.

From the terrace one can look seaward toward the isles of Capri and I Galli, or turn to survey Positano's whitewashed, houses, spilling down the cliffs to a harbor full of sailboats. Enjoy the cafés, shops, and restaurants of Positano, or travel the scenic coastal road, stopping at Praiano, Amalfi, and the spellbinding uphill town of Ravello. Take a boat trip to the islands, visit Naples, or explore the ruins of ancient Pompeii and Herculaneum.

The renowned futurist artist Gilbert Clavel restored this old Norman tower in 1927, summoning his artisan contemporary Enrico Lietz from the north of Italy to custom design furniture conforming to his vision. Clavel entertained many famous guests in this house, including Cocteau, Depero, and Picasso.

This an awe-inspiring pentagonal residence is built on four levels, with a subterranean level built right into the rock. The various levels and areas are connected by pathways, passages, and corridors -- all in balance with the natural environment - and the interior is furnished with delightful simplicity. The harmonious relationship between structure and environment is reflected in the choice of materials, colors, and light.

Arrive by water taxi or on foot, taking the staircase to the private entrance gate and path. The property is divided into three different parts:

LA TORRE
On the lower level is a fully equipped modern kitchen (with dishwasher). Upstairs is a cozy double bedroom (beds can be divided on request) with a view of the sea and an en suite bath (shower over tub) with a view of Positano. There is a spacious living room with fireplace on the second floor, with a TV/CD player and a small fridge for cold drinks. A charming single bedroom with en suite bath with shower has a little balcony that overlooks the sea. Stairs lead to a spacious queen-bedded room with en suite bathroom (with tub). An internal staircase leads to a rooftop terrace with a 360° view of the sea and coastline. A balcony circles the tower on three sides and an open terrace has a painted tile floor by the famous ceramicist, Ernestine.

LE SIRENE
A bright and spacious double bedroom (divisible on request) on the first level has bookcases and a desk designed by Clavel. A small corridor leads to a bathroom with tub and separate shower. Upstairs is a single bedroom with a unique diamond-shaped ceiling, designed by Clavel. This charming, distinctive room has a window facing Positano, satellite TV, and a ceiling fan. The unique open-space bathroom with shower has only drapes for privacy. On the third level is a living-dining room with bamboo furniture and a round dining table that seats four. Amenities include satellite TV and a VCR. There is a corner kitchen and a fantastic terrace offering breathtaking views of the coast and outfitted with a teak dining table seating eight, as well as a BBQ.

PORTICATO
A sitting room on the lower level opens onto a long, tiled dining terrace, furnished with a table large enough to accommodate everyone. The view, framed through an open stone arch, is stupendous. A corridor leads to the main kitchen, and arched glass doors open onto a covered terrace and washing machine. The custodian's apartment, which has its own independent access, is located on this level. Upstairs is a double bedroom (divisible beds) opening onto the principal terrace, with a breathtaking view of Positano. A single bedroom has an antique parquet floor and a desk designed by Clavel. There is also a guest half-bathroom on this floor.

Although the villa has three kitchens, the gas will be turned on only in the main kitchen (in Il Porticato). This is the kitchen used by the cook. The other facilities (fridge and water) can be used in the other two kitchens.

This is an ideal accommodation for a large group of people who want to enjoy both secluded and shared spaces, and who wish to experience one of the most unusual and elegant residences on the Amalfi Coast. The picture is completed by an exceptional staff whose love and dedication to this property will enhance your villa vacation. Because there are numerous staircases, corridors and walkways connecting various parts of the house, this property is not suitable for young children or guests with walking problems.

Arrival Day: Saturday
Minimum Stay: one week
Price Range: $20,000-$30,000/wk