Town House Suite Villa Lara - Amalfi

9.5

We had an amazing time at Villa Lara. The staff were the main reason it was so great, everyone who works there is top notch; helpful, good humored and professional. The room took some getting used to, the ceiling had a 45 degree pitch and no balcony, but we would stay there again.

9.2

At 150 euros, we expect a lot. And generally Villa Lara delivers. The property is a bit difficult to locate via auto, as you have to travel through very crowded street (the only one through town) which is marked for local traffic only (ask the Polizia for access) and has traffic lights (don't miss them!) controlling what essentially is two-way traffic on a one-way street. The Villa is not well marked from the street...just a very small sign on the wall...pay attention to the street numbers. When you get there, DON'T WALK UP THE STEPS (all 200 of them)...take the elevator. Staff was very welcoming. The room was gorgeous. Shower and bathroom were excellent. Bed was comfortable. Location is fantastic...easy walk to everything in Amalfi. Breakfast was good. Parking was 18 Euros / night; staff will arrange pick-up and drop-off. TIP: for a great meal, head off the main road to the Old Square (Piazza dei Dogi) and eat at "Da Baracca" (where chef prepared anchovy bruschetta without the anchovies on request...2nd best bruschetta in Italy). Since the property is so expensive, might not stay there again...although Amalfi is not cheap regardless. Would recommend to others.

8.2

Lovely hotel,quaint access, really friendly staff very accommodating. Although they did ask us to move room for the 2nd night and then it got a little complicated. We didnt keep a close eye on the charge for car parking so be warned its 18 euros a night.Very short walk down to the main square and coast road. Driving in Amalfi is a whole different experience - take the bus!!!

9.7

Town House Villa Lara is a great place to stay and chill out. The staff are very helpful and full of local knowledge about places to see, how to get around and good restaurants\bars. I would recommend to anyone that this is the place to stay in Amalfi and I would definitely stay there again.

8.2

Amalfi is the best location enabling visits to Positano, Sorrento, Capri, Pompeii etc. Villa Lara management gave excellent advice on what to do/see and the best way to do it. The accomodation is of a high standard and commands an enviable position overlooking the town and out to see. An elevator is a welcome addition to 30m climb to the hotel (not mentioned in description)

9.3

E' una struttura splendida che vanta una posizione incantevole. Niente da dire poi sulle camere che sono arredate in modo delizioso e sono molto pulite. Il mio giudizio è ottimo! Merita trascorrere una vacanza a villa lara!

9.8

Had a short but sweet stay at Villa Lara, would definately go back and recommend any friends to stay here. The view, location and service was perfect.

9.3

It's a unique location up on a hill which cannot be reached by car. It's quiet and the b'fast balcony is ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS (as seen on the webpage), facing the blue ocean and little houses on the other side of the mountain. I've never stayed in a hotel like this, it's such a nice experience. The room is nicely painted in pink with warm lighting (though abit dark). B'fast is abit simple (with only bread and yoghurt), but the view was so lovely that you wouldn't care about the food. It's the most unique hotel out of my 13 nites in Italy, i'll definitely come back and spend a few days there. Staff was also helpful.

9.8

Il minuscolo hotel Villa Lara è un vero gioiello. Atmosfera familiare, camere ampie, ben arredate e impeccabilmente pulite nonché una splendida posizione con una bella vista sul mare dalla piccola terrazza dove si serve la buona prima colazione: ecco alcuni dei suoi pregi che hanno contribuito ad un soggiorno davvero indimenticabile. Molto pratico anche l'accesso gratuito a internet

9.6

Fantastic welcome from staff, Nello, offered a coffee and bun, explained all the things to do in Amalfi and was just great. I was having a problem with another company from Rome, Rome Sweet Home, who I would NEVER book with again, and he faxed them for me and even phoned them. The rooms were clean, comfortable, breakfast was fine, view fantastic and I would highly recommend this place to anyone. It is also away from noise in town(except for the barking dog some nights) good restaurant up the street and still close to everything. Staff is Number One in my books, they were fantastic.

9.8

I was surprised that the room was as inexpensive as it was, since the location (in my opinion) was ideal, and I paid only slightly less for a room with incomparably bad quality in Rome just a few days prior. I was floored by the cleaness and luxury of the room upon first entering. The staff was a godsend and the isolation was exactly what I was looking for. Nothing but the chirping of birds and the smell of flowers.

10

excellent hotel - very nice welcoming - the staff was very kindly - beautiful en very quiet location of the hotel

9.9

I booked into the Villa Lara as a result of the overwhelmingly positive recommendations on this website. The reviews were not wrong - it is a lovely place to stay, and the quality of accommodation supplied was every bit as good as the reviews had led me to beleive. The only (slight) demurrals about the Villa Lara are not anything to do with the hotel itself, or indeed the gracious and welcoming staff, but about its location. I had the misfortune to travel to Amalfi on Sunday May 1st, 2005, the hottest day of the year so far, and also an important date in the Italian calendar. I was not prepared for the terrifying vision of thousands of motorcyclists and scooter riders hurtling towards my car (on my side of the road) in their bid to leave Amalfi late in the afternoon. The (long) drive into Amalfi, along precipitous cliffside roads was a real white-knuckle trip that I personally hope never to have to make again! Also, I would advise any one stayin at the Villa Lara to avail themselves of the garage facilities, just up the hill from the hotel. Also, be prepared to have to drive through the tourist crowds to get to the Villa Lara, through the notoriously tight Amalfi streets. That being said, none of this should put you off from enjoying your time in Amalfi, with the engaging Villa Lara hotel, and their helpful staff. Tip: Talk about football (soccer, if you're American). It's a great ice-breaker.

9.0

This hotel is one of the best I know. I think I will remember all my life the breakfast on the terrasse ! (Especially for the view and the quiet of the place). People are very friendly and speak french very well.

9.2

We had a wonderful time at the Villa Lara in Amalfi. While it is a good walk uphill to get to it, there is a big advantage to being out of the noise of the waterfront and public square. The employees were extremely gracious and helpful in every respect. The rooms are modern, comfortable, and clean. The views from the room and from the terrace are stunning. We would stay there again. If you can't make the walk uphill, you can take a readily available taxi.

9.3

Problème de parking. Interdit de se garer près de l'hôtel sauf en payant un garage 16 euros la nuit. On peut se garer à l'extérieur de la ville, mais il y est très difficile de trouver une place. Accès internet gratuit intéressant

9.6

The hotel was in a beautiful location and the rooms were immaculate. Breakfast was lovely and the staff was very helpful and friendly. I would highly recommend this unique hotel to anyone looking for a great hideaway!

5.1

We booked a room for 3 nights in March. When we got there, there was some road work going on and we had to wait until 8:00pm to be able to drive with our car to the hotel (I have specifically asked about the parking facilities when I booked the room and was not informed of that). They asked if I would need the car on the next day because they would asked the guy who parks the car to take it outside the historic center and put in another parking lot. According to the parking guy, they only called him at 7:30am and there was not enough time to take the car out before the police closed the road and therefore we could not get our car out until 8:00pm... The room was on the last floor and because of the roof's shape and height, we could only stand in part of it. We asked for another room but there wasn't any available. If you are going to stay there, ask for a room that is not on the last floor. Although the people and the breakfast were good, we ended up moving to another hotel in the area and loosing 70 Euros for the last night.

8.4

Villa Lara is clean, comfortable and up-to-date. It is reasonably priced, and for its price class represents a reasonable value. It is rather oddly situated, however, outside the main center of the town, on the side of a steep hill, 200 steps above street level. (All but 20 of these steps can be eliminated if you follow a tunnel through the hill to a tiny elevator.) Our room faced a stone cliff, a bit of a disappointment. The breakfasts were fine, and the staff very friendly.

10

The only place to stay in Amalfi. Very clean, very modern, every convienence, wonderful staff, and at a great price. Away from the touristy hussle and bussle of the coastal road, just a short hike up the valley road... even a lift to bypass the stairs to get to the high perch of Villa Lara. You won't be dissapointed!

9.6

very charming little hotel furnished with taste ,good welcoming.

6.8

Nice small unconventional hotel with beautiful surroundings and with very clean rooms (but noisy). Breakfast buffet is minimalist. Overall the staff is nice (the manager) but sometime some of them may feel unconcerned by the clients. Indeed, there is a real need for improvement with respect to post-stay relationship with clients (never forget something in your room as your calls seem to really bother the receptionist who will pay no attention to you and will not help you).

8.8

Both myself and my partner really enjoyed our stay at Villa Lara. The staff were very helpful and friendly and the location was beautiful. The rooms were nice and clean and all in all we thoroughly enjoyed our stay and it was good value for money. I'd definiately go back there again if I were to stay in Amalfi again.

9.8

I absolutely loved my visit to Villa Lara and the Amalfi Coast! I was completely impressed with the quality of the hotel! Breakfast included) on the terrace was relaxing, and the free Internet access was a very nice surprise. Additionally, Nello, Roberto and Manuel were excellent hosts!! I received several excellent recommendations for dinner. The hotel is located slighty up from the main street, which provides for a relatively quiet stay. The price was out of my budget (a recently graduated masters student) but the experience was definitely worth it. When I return to Amalfi, I will definitely stay at Villa Lara again!

9.8

We loved staying at the Villa Lara. The reservation process was quite simply and straight forward. Everything was exactly as it was presented on the website at Venere.com. Thank you very much - our stay was quite memorable. Ken Mumford & Cathy Kirby kmumf@sbcglobal.net & cat2112@sbcglobal.net

9.6

Amalfi was our favourite town on this coast and the accommodation exceeded our expectations. The staff were welcoming and friendly and compensated for our rudimentary Italian with excellent English. The room was simple and contemporary with classic Italian views. The hotel is located five minutes from the harbour at the end of the main street in a peaceful and elevated part of town. If we had any criticisms they would be that the shower was too small, there was no balcony and the breakfast patio could be cramped. However, Villa Lara is a real find and offers excellent value for money. We would recommend exploring the labyrinth of alleys, staircases and passages where you will find some good tavernas but don't believe the hotelier when he tells you the walk to Ravello is one hour and 1,400 stairs. Devote the whole day to this and expect to get lost. A memorable stay.

9.7

Small but fine. Huge differences between renovated rooms and none. At all very good, very friendly and fantastic view during breakfast from balcony. I would book it againg.

9.8

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the Villa Lara. The room was very clean and the staff was excepcionally friendly and helpful. Villa Lara had a quaint feeling to it and we felt very much at home there.

9.5

Villa Lara is a beautiful bed and breakfast. A little off the beaten path, but if you are willing to walk the extra distance, it is well worth it. Parking is difficult, as is access to the property itself. It is directly thru the center of Amalfi, and the street is closed to non-residential traffic. So if you plan to stay there with a rental car, be aware of street closing times and request very clear parking information. If you are willing to do the walking, which is thru the wonderful old streets lined with shops, you'll be very happy. The property is basically brand new accomodations housed in a 1800's building. Very modern and contemporary anmenities with old world charm. One manager got very testy with young adults, which was a disappointment. But if you have a large group, and can rent out the entire Villa, you'll have a great stay.

9.7

Only spent one night at Villa Larra, breakfast on the balcony was gorgeous. Beautiful, stylish place, great location & lovely staff. Would highly recommend Villa Larra to all just be aware that you need to climb a hill & steps.

9.0

Superb location with Nello and his staff very helpful and friendly. Breakfast on patio looking down on Amalfi very memorable. Would definitely return.

8.8

Wonderful, quiet, modern rooms.

9.7

I would stay at Villa Lara again. We met some very nice guests from Ireland and had a great time. Your staff was wonderful... Note: Parking says included but it is 30 Eu per day... please correct. No problem but it was a suprise. Thanks, Stuart & Linda Dobbins

9.6

Our Stay at the Villa Lara was the highlight of the trip to Amalfi. The location was great, with easy access to public transportation. Everyone was very helpful, friendly and gave us support on restaurants, sites to visit, directions-you name it. Breakfast overlooking the sea and towns was spectacular. We hated to leave!!! The Villa Lara is a real gem!!!!

10

The hotel is loaded with character! Beautiful view down to the coast and up into the hills. Breakfast on a balcony overlooking the coast and hillside. The shower had a swedish massage with 6 jets. The room was very clean and had nice, tasteful furniture. If you're hungry or thirsty, go to the Cantina down the street. Very yummy, good wine, and nice atmosphere. We stayed during the later half of May 2004 and the weather was beautiful. You'll have to get permission from the police to enter up the pedestrian street up to the hotel, but it's worth it. It's a short 5 minute walk down to the coast. As for the car, they came and picked it up from in front of the hotel and delivered it back to us when we were ready to leave. Couldn't have been easier.

10

We loved every minute of our stay at Villa Lara!

9.5

It was great to stay in Villa Lara. The rooms have beautiful furniture and the personnel are all very kind and helpful. To see the village of Amalfi from Villa Lara is a good experience.

9.8

I'd say for mid range value this was the place to stay in Amalfi, the room was simple yet tasteful and most importantly clean. The staff were great and the location was perfect, up from the main square brought some peace and quiet.

9.8

This is a beautiful, although difficult to find, hotel. We passed the street a couple of times becasue it is only open to residents and there was a policeman with a barracade. Once we told him we were staying at the hotel he let us in. The booking does vaguely mention this. The hotel was very new and the very friendly staff spoke excellent English. The breakfast provided was very nice. We highly recommend this hotel.

10

Amalfi is the most beautiful place we have ever been. The accomodations at Villa Lara were more than excellent and the staff were great. We will recommend Villa Lara to anyone going to Amalfi. We will remember our stay and the wonderful staff forever.

10

This is simply an excellent hotel ! The entrance to the hotel is one of the most amazing entrances I've ever seen, but I won't say anything so you'd be surprised when you get there. Also, the rooms are beatiful and spacious. Even more beatiful in reality than in the pictures shown here. The friendliness of the hotel staff was truly wonderful, with a sincere effort to help in everything - including where to visit, which is very important in that area. The hotel staff was also very fluent in English compared to the other hotels I've stayed in in Italy. The location is just great, inside the historic center of Amalfi, with only about 5 minutes from the shore, where the bus station is. In one word : Great ! In a few words : If you need a hotel in the Amalfi area, this is the one. It can't get any better.

8.5

The staff were very welcoming and informative. The setting was beautiful. The only negative comment I would have would be the carpark although on reflexion it was reasonably priced it was a cost we were not expecting and finding it was not easy, some signs would have been helpful.

8.5

Nice location and views. Rooms comfortable and well furnished. Parking the car was a problem - not very convenient - but this must be a common problem in Amalfi.

9.8

I can't say enough positive things about our stay at the Villa Lara. The building is absolutely beautiful, the staff are friendly and helpful, and the price was a great value.

9.9

Number one § We shall come back for sure.

9.9

What a beautiful property! The rooms are stunning and the view from the terrace (where we spent many hours gazing down the valley out across the ocean) is spectacular. The pictures on the website do not do justice to the exceptional quality of either the rooms or the grounds of the villa. Furthermore, the owner was such a wonderful host; he not only helped us find good places to eat, but he went out of his way to aid us in finding a dentist for a sudden emergency, calling and persuading him to wait for us and treat my husband before closing for the weekend. We definitely plan to return to the beautiful hillsides of Amalfi, and wouldn't think of staying anywhere but the Villa Lara. Thanks for the great vacation!

9.8

Villa Lara is beautifully located away from the main tourist area. The staff is friendly and professional. The facilities are modern, elegant, yet comfortable. Breakfast was excellent. There is not very much sound proofing in the rooms, however this does not spoil the wonderful experience we had staying at Villa Lara. We look forward to future visits.

8.3

We were very happy with the Villa Lara during our recent stay. It is a lovely, clean hotel and the host was most welcoming. I would recommend very highly.

10

There is just nothing more to say than EXCELENT! Perfect rooms, perfect service a really beautiful view and that all for a really low price!

9.8

Our Stay at Villa Lara was great! The terasse has a beautiful view over Amalfi. The staff was very welcoming and helpfull in chosing restaurants and place to go. The villa is a little past the centre of the city (about 7-8 minute walk), but therefore quieter which was nice. We would definelty recommend this place to anyone looking for a nice, clean, quiet stay in Amalfi.