Reviews of Suite Ernestina

Self catering apartment in Positano, Amalfi Coast, Italy

Dawn G.

Stanwick

United Kingdom

VERIFIED

Excellent

September 2013 - We had a fantastic time, the property was perfect for our holiday needs. The outside space was versatile and helped make our holiday very special.

Giovanni [the caretaker] looked after us better than any hotel concierge.

The service we received from Summer in Italy was first class! Any questions we had were responded to very quickly and in a very friendly manner.

Travel tips

  • Don't worry about the walk into Positano, it means you have the view of the town and can escape when the tour groups visit.
  • The apartment information book provides great restaurant recommendations.

Shelley N.

Wadestown

New Zealand

VERIFIED

Fantastic

July 2013 - We had the most wonderful holiday in July at Suite Ernestina.

Giovanni [the caretaker] was an absolute delight, and helped us out in every way possible.

The villa was conveniently located just outside of Positano, with the bus stop right below the villa.

The views were to die for, and the terrace exceeded all our expectations. The kitchen was perfectly adequate for all our needs, and we made several purchases of supplies at the deli in Positano which were delivered for free right to our doorstep.

We will definitely be back.

We found Summer in Italy to be absolutely excellent.

Anupama G.

Bangalore

India

VERIFIED

Excellent

May 2013 - We had the most wonderful stay at Suite Ernestina. A charming place, right from the jasmine climbing over the entry way, to the large tiled table and lounge chairs on the terrace!

The suite was just perfect with just about all the amenities one can ask for, hot water, kitchen supplies, and comfortable furniture. The terrace has a fantastic view of both the town of Positano and the sea.

Travel tips

  • The walk to the busy centre of town, as well as the larger grocery stores is about a kilometre, which is very comfortable. So it is very walkable to the lovely shopping area and the beach as well.
  • There is a flight of stairs to get up to the suite from the street. So if you have heavy luggage, do be prepared to lug it up. Though, Giovanni [the caretaker], at the suite, was SO helpful with this too.
  • Giovanni will also help you rent a scooter, by the day. It is a great way to see the other towns and to enjoy the winding coastline!

Terri C.

Berowra Heights

Australia

VERIFIED

Excellent

September 2012 - Our stay at suite Ernestina was the highlight of our 3 week holiday in southern Italy. Everything was just perfect and how I had imagined it would be.

The location and view are definitely the main features of this villa. In August Positano can be quite busy and noisy, so it was great to be in a quiet location up in the clouds with a view to die for.

The villa was extremely well-maintained and clean. The air-con and swimming pool were great as it was very hot in August. As I love to cook, the kitchen was excellent and we preferred to eat dinner on the terrace with one of the best views in the world.

I would highly recommend this villa to my friends and, as I have been a travel agent for 30 years, I will let a few colleagues know too. You do have to be prepared for steps, but that is what kept us fit and allowed us to enjoy the local food and wines.

Your company is extremely professional and I did love the information sheets that you sent out with your confirmation. Very well written and honest. I would book with you again. Thank you for arranging such a wonderful holiday for us.

Travel tips

  • Arienzo Beach is just below the villa and we preferred it to busy Positano beach. There is also a wonderful cafe here run by a family and food and service is great.
  • The local delikatessen in Positano home delivers, so this is how we arranged our groceries to be taken up to the villa. No problem at all.

Italo D.

Hamilton

Canada

VERIFIED

Excellent

August 2012 - My wife and I loved Suite Ernestina. It is one of the nicest places that we have stayed.

Everything was perfect. Giovanni was a the perfect host and really helped us in every regard. I would have no hesitation in recommending this place to my friends and relatives.

I really liked booking with your company. You have a very good web site and provided excellent personalized service. Thank you to Luca Trotta.

Travel tips

  • The boat trip from Positano around the island of Capri was very nice. It provided a tour of the perimeter of the island and sights. Much better than taking the boat that just goes to the island and back.

Rob T.

Devonport

New Zealand

VERIFIED

Excellent

July 2012 - This is an excellent apartment, in a perfect location.

But our stay was very special because of the caretaker Giovanni who took very good care of us. We enjoyed our stay immensely and have already recommended the apartment to friends.

Our stay was everything we could have hoped for.

Travel tips

  • Stay as long as you can!

Martin T.

Birchwood

United Kingdom

VERIFIED

Excellent

April 2012 - We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Suite Ernestina. The facilities provided all we needed with the bonus of the huge terrace and swing seat to relax on and of course the amazing view.

Plus Giovanni the caretaker was so helpful! We asked him where the nearest shop is so he took us in his car to show us! The next night he booked a restaurant for us and arranged for them to pick us up. Another night it was our thirtieth wedding anniversary and he ran us into Positano. Nothing was too much trouble for him.

Thank you.

Hazel A.

North Queensferry

United Kingdom

VERIFIED

Excellent

September 2011 - We had wonderful time at the villa, it is a gorgeous setting and extremely comfortable.

We also found Mr Giovanni [the caretaker] so helpful, he was on hand every day and took us for shopping and booked restaurants etc. I had flu when we were visiting and he even came and made me a toddy!

We would recommend Summer in Italy to friends and family and definitely consider booking again for a holiday.

Travel tips

  • Don't be concerned about the location being outside Positano, we looked it up on Google Earth and worried about the walking along the roads but this was not actually an issue at all and if not walking the bus service was frequent and easy to access.

Jim R.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

September 2011 - We loved our stay at Suite Ernestina. The pool, the villa, the sea and view! What a beautiful place. I would easily consider going back to the same place again next year!

Giovanni [the caretaker] made us feel welcome and was a huge help with logistics.

Thanks! We are glad we booked with you. It was very simple to organize.

Travel tips

  • If you are looking for a beautiful place to stay along the Amalfi coast, you won't be disappointed at Suite Ernestina!!!!

Simon J.

Chester

United Kingdom

VERIFIED

Excellent

September 2011 - LIked Suite Ernestina a lot. Beautiful setting. Giovanni [the caretaker] looked after us very well.

Travel tips

  • Be prepared for crazy roads!

Jan H.

Kilkenny

Ireland

VERIFIED

Excellent

August 2011 - Great place for a break, with fab views. Enjoy it!

Great efficient service.

Marc Andre H.

Blainville

Canada

VERIFIED

Excellent

July 2010 - We had a marvelous time at Suite Ernestina!

The owner Giovanni was very generous of his time and made us feel as if we were home.

Thank you for a lovely stay! We had one of the best vacation ever and will be back.

Travel tips

  • You will simply love it! The terrace offers a magnificent view of the coast and the Positano. The villa is so peaceful that you don't want to leave it to go to the beach.

Neil H.

Flemington, NJ

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

May 2010 - First, Suite Ernestina was all it was advertised to be. The photos on Summer in Italy are very representative of the Suite and the grounds. In fact several improvements have been made since those photos were taken. The Suite was clean and tidy and contained everything we needed. The patio was perfect and we spent much time sitting on the swing chair enjoying the beautiful view.

At my request the owner, Daniela, had some groceries and refreshments delivered to the suite prior to our arrival which I thought was very kind of her. I can't say enough about Giovanni, Daniela's father, except to say that he made the difference between Suite Ernestina being a great place to vacation and being the perfect place to vacation. Giovanni was exceptionally helpful in many ways and he alone made our vacation something special. He is a very nice person and we will always treasure our memories of Suite Ernestina and Giovanni. Giovanni's hard work has ensured that the grounds are very beautiful.

I would not hesitate to recommend Suite Ernestina to my friends and would love to return one day.

My experience with Summer in Italy was very good. We found the place we wanted, we booked it, we paid for it, we arrived, and it was exactly what was described at the price we were told it would be. The staff of Summer in Italy were very responsive and very helpful when replying to my email requests. I will not hesitate to use Summer in Italy for my vacation planning in the future. I am also willing to correspond with anyone who would like more detailed information about Suite Ernestina or my experience with Summer in Italy.

Travel tips

  • The only advice I would give to future guests of Suite Ernestina is to arrive in a relaxed state of mind so that you do not waste any time getting to that state of mind after arriving. Make use of the patio, walk a lot, drink some wine and eat some cheese and olives. Relax, because Suite Ernestina is the perfect place for that. To paraphrase Julius Caesar, "Veni, vidi, laxus". (I came, I saw, I relaxed).
  • If you're up to it, take the steps up to Nocelle. There are about 1,750 steps up and about the same number coming down! You will enjoy the workout and there is a great restaurant at the top with a beautiful view.

George J.

Houston, TX

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

October 2009 - We had a great time. A little bit of a trek to get into town but overall it was great.

Giovanni the meccanico [the caretaker] was amazing.

Virginia W.

Kingswood

United Kingdom

VERIFIED

Excellent

October 2009 - We loved staying at Suite Ernestina.

Giovanni was an excellent host and looked after us very well. He is a very nice man and also drove us to a local pizza restaurant and arranged for someone to bring us home. He also helped us with the local buses and spoke to the driver when we didn't have a ticket so we could buy them when the bus stopped in the town.

We enjoyed the fabulous views from the terrace and loved having a morning swim each day.

It was very useful to have the washing machine.

Travel tips

  • It is a fair walk into the town of Positano - downhill is not too bad and neither is coming back up (about 20 mins), however, the road is very windy (lots of hairpin bends not wind!) and can be busy with traffic.

Eric W.

North Providence, RI

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

July 2009 - Being on the outskirt of town was manageable without a car. but the bus stop was right there if I wanted to wait. I thought the walk into town was long but enjoyable.

That being said, everything else was PERFECT! Giovanni was the most hospitable host I could ever imagine, without him, my trip would not be nearly as good.

The terraces and pool were simply beautiful, peaceful, and private. The cleanliness was amazing.

I cannot wait to return.

Travel tips

  • Bring good walking shoes/sneakers to take the walk to and from town. Walking quickly, it's about 15 minutes. And get ready to be amazed at the terraces, pool and view. The pictures cannot capture their beauty.

Frank N.

Philadelphia, PA

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

May 2009 - It was a wonderful experience, and Giovanni made it very special.

Travel tips

  • Walk the 1,700 steps up to Nocelle from behind your unit. Nocelle was worth the climb, and the Walk of the Gods was an incredible hike.

Justin P.

Hamilton, NY

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

November 2008 - We stayed at Ernestina for 3 nights and had an immensely enjoyable time.

We stayed in late November and were worried about the weather but we lucked out and got 3 beautiful days of sun. The weather was warm enough for shorts and tee shirts during the day and light sweaters at night.

The town is a little dead in November and if you are in search of a more lively location I would recommend Amalfi or Salerno. However, our main goal was relaxation and the location did not disappoint.

A few things to remember, the Suite is not located in the center of town and it is a bit of a walk to reach the center. Walking along the road can be a bit nerve wrecking, it is very narrow and there are many blind corners. There is a local bus that stops in front of the suite for transportation as well as the regional bus that stops directly in front of the suite.

We found we did not need to travel too much, the suite is a great size with a good kitchen and a large terrace and a stunning view. It would be most appropriate for a couple and I would hesitate to bring more than 2.

Travel tips

  • It is a good idea to cook at home and use the kitchen. We bought groceries for the week and packed food when we traveled, which was a big advantage.
  • Something to remember about the bus -- it is not for those with sensitive stomachs, it is very windy and the views down can be nauseating.

Kate L.

Burlington

Canada

VERIFIED

Excellent

October 2008 - We loved it! Absolutely fabulous.

A bit further from Positano than we thought, but it was OK as the buses ran regularly and the walk into town was not that long (it encouraged us to exercise more!). And being just outside of town we had the best view of the entire town!

I can't say enough good things about the accommodation. The ONLY small negative that I can think of is the bed is very hard. Aside from that, everything was absolutely perfect.

Suite Ernestina is very very well equipped, it has absolutely everything plus more - little touches like candles, binoculars for the view, etc. etc.

It's so nice to look forward to staying in a lovely setting, but always such a nice surprise when you arrive and it is even more spectacular than you imagined. I can't wait to book a return visit.

The hospitality of Giovanni [the owner] is superb! He really made our stay most enjoyable, always there with a smile & advice. Bringing us local treats (cheese from Sorrento, oranges from his garden, cake that his wife made). What a wonderful man!

Most enjoyable experience dealing with Luca, Andrea, and Alfano with Summer In Italy. You made the booking experience easy and provided more than enough information. Everything was very thorough and efficient. Will recommend Summer in Italy to friends and will definately use the service again. Many thanks!

Travel tips

  • Don't even think about renting a car, the buses are the way to go, and you can walk into Positano easily (maybe 15 minute walk).
  • To get to Amalfi we recommend taking the ferry, it is faster and the view is incredible.
  • Try to visit some of the small, less-touristy towns to get away from the standard "menu turistico" and find some small, family-run restaurants where you can experience more the local culture.

Thomas D.

Indianapolis, IN

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

September 2008 - An absolutely incredible place to stay. Outside our villa every morning we would wake up to viewing the most spectacular views of the town and sharing it with some of the most spectacular private yachts out front.

In the evenings we would watch beautiful sunsets on a huge terrace.

The caretaker is fantastic, and everything was immaculate.

Kitchen was perfectly appointed, as well.

The trip was amazing. The directions were wonderful. The villa was everything we expected and more.

Travel tips

  • Walking to town is no problem as long as you are careful of traffic. We never took the bus.
  • Be sure to do the hike up to Nocelle (if you are in decent shape), and visit the Arienzo beach below when the restaurant/bar is open.

Maurice S.

Burlington

Canada

VERIFIED

Excellent

September 2008 - Suite Ernestina is a lovely villa with more amenities than we thought we would find in Italy.

The view and location were wonderful,the terrace is great for sun bathing, quiet reading, and evening dinners and cocktails.

Everything in the villa was in top working condition, the air conditioning worked wonderfully and the suite was clean and immaculate.

Giovanni (the caretaker) was extremely helpful and kind. He is definitely an added bonus for Suite Ernestina.

Your service was excellent and very professional. We thoroughly enjoyed our 3 weeks in Italy. We would book through you again for other areas of Italy.

Travel tips

  • The location of the bus stops for both the local bus and the coastal service from Sorrento to Salerno are located in the font of the villa and make renting a car unnecessary.

Sophie L.

London

United Kingdom

VERIFIED

Excellent

August 2008 - We loved it!

All the advertisements and marketing/photos of the property are genuine, it is a beautiful spot, Giovanni is very friendly as a host, and very helpful.

The view is most amazing.

The flat was very clean and tidy, and furnished well.

Travel tips

  • Difficult to know whether to bother hiring a car, as it is a hassle to park in the towns and quite hair-raising to drive around the coast roads! The bus and coach service did look very regular, so maybe this would be a better option for a relaxing holiday.

Frances M.

Dublin

Ireland

VERIFIED

Excellent

August 2008 - When we arrived at Suite Ernestina, we were given a terrific welcome by the owner. He orientated us to the apartment and its surroundings.

We were in awe of the view that was off our massive balcony, it was so beautiful the pictures of the views are true to their very word.

It was a beautiful, peaceful, clean, well equipped and well thought out apartment for every type of traveller.

Highly commendable indeed, what a worthwhile and most memorable villa. We will be going back.

Pamela W.

Lanarkshire

United Kingdom

VERIFIED

Excellent

August 2008 - We loved Suite Ernestina and hope to return.

The apartment was spotless and very well equipped.

Giovanni, the caretaker, was so friendly, and helpful and the the book full of advice and telephone numbers for restaurants etc was well used.

Finally the view from the terrace, we were speechless...

You got back to us very promptly with any queries and sent us loads of helpful information before travelling. We will definitely recommend you. Thanks very much for all your help.

Travel tips

  • We used the delivery service from the Delikatessen Positano which was a godsend.
  • Also, if you are fit, the climb down to Arienzo beach was tough but well worth it!

Charlotte W.

Peaslake

United Kingdom

VERIFIED

Excellent

July 2008 - Suite Ernestina was just perfect.

We spent a fantastic week of our honeymoon there in the summer, it was idyllic and I hope we'll be go back one day. I would definitely recommend it.

The apartment is large for a 1 bed and has an enormous private terrace with stunning views of the sea and Positano. When we were there only one of the other apartments was in use and it was very peaceful we barely knew they were there. The pool was lovely and definitely needed with such hot weather, again it has beautiful views.

The apartment was perfectly placed about 10 mins walk from the centre of Positano (slightly scary road but fab views!) or 5 mins on the local bus that stops right outside the apartment.

Giovanni the caretaker and father of the owner was incredibly helpful welcoming us with local limoncello (must be tried!) and recommending restaurants which he'd book for us etc You can also mention his name in the local minisupermarket and they'll deliver to your door (saves lugging bags back).

Travel tips

  • Lots of places to visit - Positano, Ravello, Amalfi, Praiano, Sorrento, Capri, Pompeii (Positano definitely best town as base).
  • We did not need a car at all and were very glad we didn't have one since the roads (and Italian scooter drivers) were terrifying.
  • Buses were very easy and we also booked, on recommendation, a local tour guide - Mariano Fiorentino (www.pleasantravel.com) - who took us on a fantastic (air conditioned!) tour. He was very friendly, showed us so many sights we would never have found on our own and had lots of interesting local knowledge.
  • Capri is also easy to get to by boat from Positano but be warned its manic in the summer and restaurants are generally pretty poor or very expensive or both!
  • Restaurants in Positano cater to every budget and taste and I think we tried almost all! Our favourite was Lo Guarracino which was tucked away on the cliff side a short walk beyond the harbour (follow the path behind the boat-taxi huts). The food, service and view was fantastic and you are not packed in like sardines as you are in restaurants on the beach.

Robert N.

Edinburgh

United Kingdom

VERIFIED

Excellent

July 2008 - Simply the finest views from a villa that we have ever experienced on a holiday. A fitting choice to finish off a honeymoon.

Great accommodation, the grandest terrace possible for a 1 bedroom villa, lovely pool again with stunning views and a touching welcome from the owner on arrival.

Highly recommended.

Philip L.

Milton Keynes

United Kingdom

VERIFIED

Excellent

May 2008 - Suite Ernestina was fantastic - spotlessly clean, well equipped and beautifully appointed.

Very tastefully decorated and furnished with lots of nice touches that made it a real "home from home".

We especially loved the outdoor terrace with amazing views across the bay and Positano. Lots of outdoor furniture, a swing seat and barbecue are great additions to the terrace.

I found both Luca and Andrea extremely helpful, professional and pleasant in all my dealings with them. The voucher and information pack was extremely useful for visitors arriving in Italy.

Travel tips

  • Book this villa! It is a wonderful place to stay with fantastic views.
  • Check out the bus services - both the local "orange buses" and the SITA services stops right outside the steps to Suite Ernestina.
  • The restaurant recommendations in the welcome pack are well worth checking out.

Paul K.

Ballsbridge

Ireland

VERIFIED

Excellent

October 2007 - Very enjoyable - great location.

Particularly appreciated the welcome and help of Giovanni, the caretaker.

Would definitely recommend it.

Travel tips

  • Visit the secluded beach down the steps opposite the apartment.

David J.

Wargrave

United Kingdom

VERIFIED

Excellent

October 2007 - Most enjoyable. The sea view across Positano is incredible. The terrace is huge, well equipped and makes you reluctant to leave it and go sight-seeing elsewhere.

The apartment is very well equipped and really spacious for a 2-person apartment.

The owners are very kind, attentive and supportive without being intrusive. They even insisted we park our car on their own rather restricted space.

Highly recommended.

Unfortunately, Suite Ernestina can not be booked at this time.

We would love to help you find a suitable alternative. Please be in touch for personal advice from our staff!