Reviews of Villa Sul Mare

Self catering accommodation in Praiano, Amalfi Coast, Italy, with our best price guarantee!

Mark P.

Winchester, Kentucky

United States

VERIFIED

Wonderful, peaceful location

September 2019 - Wonderful, peaceful location - a welcome retreat after a whirlwind tour of Italy.

Local bus stops right outside your door and a nice small grocery is a short walk away. Spent hours just reading on the veranda.

Travel tips

  • Praiano may be small but it has no lack of nice restaurants. Hosteria Il Pino was a favorite but don’t miss Kasai a short walk away. Che Bontà served the best pizza of our trip and is very reasonable.
  • Day trips to Positano and Amalfi are easy.
  • We did a cooking class with Sergio which was a blast.
  • One night we created an antipasto board from the fruit provided at the villa and a short trip to the little grocery down the street which has a wonderful deli with a very nice and inexpensive wine selection.

Stephan S.

Sant Cugat del Valles

Spain

VERIFIED

Spacious, comfortable, very well equipped, very nicely decorated, with astounding views!

August 2019 - Beautifully appointed villa, in an excellent location. Spacious, comfortable, very well equipped, very nicely decorated, with astounding views!

Lovely garden, we especially enjoyed the fig tree! We loved it and would love to come back.

Good choice of properties on the web site. Overall, we were very happy with the service of Summer In Italy.

Travel tips

  • Try the truffle and seafood pasta from nearby restaurant Kasai, it's out of this world.
  • On the way to or back from Gavitella Beach, highly recommend stopping by Café Mirante and sit on their upstairs terrace to sip a refreshing drink.
  • Make sure to walk down to Marina di Praia Beach and try one of the restaurants in the bay. Restaurant Il Pirata has great views and a superb seafood menu, albeit slightly on the expensive side.

Manash S.

Shreveport, LA

United States

VERIFIED

This villa was spectacular. Don’t hesitate to book!

July 2019 - This villa was spectacular. You should book it if only for the views. There are unbelievable views from nearly every room of the house!

We just returned from a trip to Italy traveling through the country and this by far had the most beautiful views and spacious accommodations. We had plenty of room for our family of 7. The patios, porches, yard, gardens... Just lovely.

The beds were comfortable, the kitchen well appointed, washing machine, coffee pot, etc. We used the pool only once but enjoyed it when we did.

Natale [the owner] made check-in super easy and was a help with any questions we had about the town, transportation, the villa, etc. He even brought us fresh pastries for breakfast.

Don’t hesitate to book this villa!

Travel tips

  • There is a small grocery with all your necessities about 4 blocks downhill from the villa.
  • The people of Praiano are friendly.
  • The food was great everywhere we went. We had a couple meals at Restaurant La Moressa (a short walk) that were fantastic. Try to go at sunset - the views were one of a kind.
  • We did an all day boat tour that we all enjoyed a lot.
  • The only thing negative I can say is that there is a roosters near by that wake you early in the morning but it was actually kind of quaint with the feel of the village atmosphere. If you’re a late sleeper bring ear plugs. 😀

Maria B.

Melbourne

Australia

VERIFIED

Recommended for families

July 2018 - Villa Sul Mare is a great place for a large family, with spectacular view.

Will definitely recommend Summer in Italy to my family and friends. Luca and the team made the booking so easy and extremely helpful. Thank you.

Sally K.

Harpenden

United Kingdom

VERIFIED

A grand and comfortable villa

September 2017 - We thoroughly enjoyed our long weekend in Villa Sul Mare. The villa is spacious, grand, clean and really comfortable.

Marco and Maria [the caretakers] were so helpful upon our arrival and with any questions we had there after. We couldn't have asked for more.

This was my first experience with Summer in Italy and I will definitely be recommending the company to my friends and family. Very efficient with any questions that we had. By far the most friendly service ever! Thank you.

Travel tips

  • We loved Kasai restaurant which is so conveniently located as you can see it from the villa it is just along the road!
  • We had a rental car which is challenging to drive around Amalfi, so we also used the local bus (crowded but very efficient). We used Paolo's eco taxi (like a golf buggy) which Marco recommended. It was so much fun on an open air buggy, looking at the amazing views and stopping for photos whenever we liked.
  • The seafood and view from restaurant II Pirata was fantastic. Set in the rock face and practically in the sea! Wonderful!

Mike G.

Doylestown

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

June 2015 - Villa Sul Mare is a beautiful villa with multiple terraces, a lovely, well maintained outside area with a medium size pool.

The bedrooms are large and the living space is very spacious. The view is spectacular and the outside area is wonderful. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay.

The location is perfect as you have Tutto per Tutti right down the street to get groceries and all the supplies you need. There are great restaurants right nearby. The Hotel Margherita is right across the street and is a good place to by tickets for the SITA bus.

Our kids really enjoyed the pool after a long day of sightseeing.

Overall we loved staying at Villa Sul Mare and would absolutely stay here again.

Travel tips

  • Make sure you eat at Kasai down the street, it is an excellent restaurant.
  • The bar on the roof of the Hotel Margherita is a great place to have a glass of Limoncello and enjoy the view. Also, go the the Hotel Margherita to buy SITA bus Tickets.

Richard P.

Ipswich

United Kingdom

VERIFIED

Fantastic

August 2014 - Villa Sul Mare is homely, comfortable, and in a great location.

Superb views of the sea and the coastline, nice garden. It was secluded and peaceful with plenty of space.

We also liked Praiano which had a nice community and friendly atmosphere. We wanted a relaxing holiday in a small town and this was just the place.

Keep on doing what you are doing, it worked for us. I was very pleased with how quickly Summer In Italy responded to my requests, and the cheerful/helpful attitude. We used you because you had a good selection of properties in the areas we were interested in, and you had good reviews. I was very impressed and look forward to using your services again in the future. Thank you.

Travel tips

  • When catching the Sita bus back from Amalfi in the evenings get to the stop about 30 minutes early to get a seat as the bus fills up quickly.
  • We enjoyed the day with Marco visiting the buffalo farm, the ruins in Paestum and the meal.
  • The Walk of the Gods is very nice. It is a hard climb up the steps from Praiano but the views are worth it. Once up there the walk is not hard.

Leonoe J.

Mérida

Mexico

VERIFIED

Fantastic

August 2013 - I really enjoyed staying at Villa Sul Mare. It has an excellent location and the house is beautiful.

I am very pleased with the service provided by your company. Thank you.

Rupal G.

Farmoor

United Kingdom

VERIFIED

Excellent

September 2012 - We really enjoyed our stay at Villa Sul Mare. Both Summer in Italy and the local agents were very helpful.

The villa was well equipped with what you need. Both showers were really good. All bedrooms are good sizes, with one very large one. The best part of the house was the lovely open plan kitchen, dining, living area. We spent most of our time there. It was wonderful for three infants. Parking was also very good.

Although there were steps inside the villa it was on the main road which was brilliant for us as we had infants and pushchairs. Location, there is a grocery store and restaurants with in meters of the villa, but if you go down to the main part of town only a 10 min walk down which was very pleasant, but walk back up with pushchairs is challenging. However the local bus can take you back up!

The hotel Margherita opposite were wonderful, very child friendly and the staff were brilliant, even let us use their pool, because we spent so much time at the restaurant!! Very good holiday. Thank you to Summer in Italy for their patience and always answering our questions.

Travel tips

  • Hotel Margherita was great for food, staff and very child friendly.
  • Grocery store also very close by and very friendly locals.

Rochelle C.

Halamish

Israel

VERIFIED

Excellent

August 2012 - The house is lovely and charming, the views were beautiful and the location was terrific. We loved our time there.

The banister on the stair case is a little scary as it is very low, but we managed it fine.

Mrs Dolores and Marco [the caretakers] who met us we very obliging and helpful. They made a big effort to give us information and guidance for enjoying our time in the area.

We highly recommend the house.

You were very helpful and we enjoyed working with you, thank you.

Travel tips

  • The coast line, one must see it from every angle. Take a boat to the Emerald grotto, and take a boat to Capri, not missing the Blue Grotto of course. The coast is dramatic and beautiful and the locals are helpful and pleasant.

Silvio V.

Chester, New Jersey

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

August 2011 - We enjoyed Villa Sul Mare. Near grocery store, local bus stop and hotel with good restaurant with excellent view.

More than enough space for six, great views, lemons and veggies from garden, many windows allowing for breeze and no need for AC, well equipped kitchen.

Travel tips

  • Have a least one dinner at Hotel Margherita (across the street).
  • Day trip to Pasteum organized by Marco Predieri was excellent.

Alexis L.

Atlantic Highlands, NJ

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

June 2009 - I absolutely enjoyed my stay at Villa Sul Mare!

Wish I did not have to leave...

The staff is wonderful! They all made my stay a joy! I highly recommend this organization...

Travel tips

  • Enjoy! Enjoy! EVERYTHING!

Colin B.

Norwich

United Kingdom

VERIFIED

Excellent

August 2007 - The villa itself is absolutely superb. A beautiful and relaxing place to spend a week. The rooms are large and well furnished and the whole place is just a lovely home.

We found Praiano disappointing, no real centre so everything is very spread out and I suspect we never really saw the whole place. The beaches too were not what we had hoped for. Having had a week at Atrani the week before, we found Praia beach too crowded and stony.

We booked 2 locations with you and stayed at Appartamento Emanuele in 2003 and would not hesitate to use you again - very efficient service and beautiful places to stay - that's all we want. Keep adding places with pools near towns from Amalfi to Vietri. We'll be back!

Travel tips

  • The local bus service is a great way to get to Praia beach, but the beach is not so good. However, the water taxi from there is a great service, though not for the nervous! Either the local bus or the water taxi are better ways of getting to Positano than driving, as parking is a nightmare. Best beach nearby is at the Fiordo di Furore - spectacular and easy parking - no sunbeds here though, so take a beach towel.
  • Villa Sul Mare has its share of the local mosquito population and, despite the owner supplying lots of plug-in repellents you should be prepared for a few bites.
  • The trattoria near the Duomo doesn't look like much - the outside seating is plastic garden furniture on loose stones, but the view at sunset and the food make it a memorable place to eat.

Leon S.

London

United Kingdom

VERIFIED

Excellent

August 2007 - Fantastic views from all rooms, both verandas and gardens.

Gorgeous quiet setting.

Keep on keeping on!

Travel tips

  • Take tons of mosquito creme.
  • Fly in and hire a car. Praiano is lovely but away from everything and buses are sick inducing.
  • Get the smallest car you can possibly fit in... the roads are unbelievably narrow. The cars are all knocked about, but the hire companies don't seem to care... take photos of your rental in the car park before you drive it, just in case.

Ellen C.

Wilmington, NC

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

July 2007 - I thought Villa Sul Mare was fabulous. It was clean, well stocked, spacious and beautifully decorated. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit and loved Praiano. Praiano was perfect for us - away from the tourists, yet close enough so that we had access to everything. I cannot say enough good things about the villa or the town! Magnifico!

I could not have been happier with Summer in Italy! I found all of the services most helpful. I thought the website was user friendly. When I emailed specific questions, they were answered promptly.

Travel tips

  • Public transportation is very difficult for Americans. Rent a car if at all possible.
  • Ravello, Pompei and Capri are not to be missed! Each is a fabulous day trip.
  • Two markets are close to the villa. Everyone is friendly and helpful.
  • LizArt is a fantastic ceramic shop in town. However, if it's shopping for other items you want, go to Positano or Capri.
  • All of the restaurants were delicious! Eat dinner at 9:00 p.m. and relish every moment.

Michael L.

New York, New York

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

July 2007 - A truly enjoyable experience. The master bedroom and living/dining room areas were huge. The two extra bedrooms were better than average size.

The terraces had beautiful views of the sea. There was a vegetable/herb garden, which we used to cook meals.

I would highly recommend this villa.

Travel tips

  • Although there is a small, above ground pool, we never used it.
  • The location is in the town of Praiano, which is a short distance from Positano and other sites on the coast, and was a nice diversion from the hustle and bustle of Positano.
  • The Praia, a small cove with a beach and restaurants, was nearby and within walking distance (although mainly a vertical path). Two grocery stores were within 200 feet of the villa.
  • Parking was available for two cars, which was very helpful, since parking on the street is not allowed for non locals, and they do give parking tickets.
  • The local residents were more than helpful. It is a quaint town and much less commercial than Positano or Ravello. An experience that I would highly recommend.

Jon A.

Hafnarfjordur

Iceland

VERIFIED

Excellent

June 2007 - We liked it very much. It was even better than we expected.

The flowers and fruits waiting for us were a very nice touch.

 

Denise D.

Baltimore, MD

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

June 2007 - The villa is magnificent. We had fresh flowers in every room and the beautiful platter of fruit supplemented our meals wonderfully.

We also enjoyed the fresh lemons from the trees in our yard! The decor was lovely, the garden restful, and the view unforgettable.

We all fell in love with Praiano -- the people, the food, even the stairs!

We will never forget it.

Travel tips

  • Ravello was our favorite day-trip from Praiano, but Praiano is so peaceful and beautiful you don't really need to go anywhere else.
  • If you have enough people to afford it, I recommend hiring a driver to and from the villa. We found catching the commuter train in Naples to be very stressful and buses and trains were crowded.

Theodore L.

Elizabethtown, PA

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

May 2007 - Villa Sul Mare as an attractive and spacious villa with a good combination of private quarters and shared space.

The bathrooms were better than other villas we have rented -- in design, spaciousness, and my personal favorite, the showers, which excelled most others I have used in Italy.

Location in Praiano was excellent in several respects -- less touristy, accessible to most things along Amalfi, close to public transportation and enough basic amenities close by -- grocer, trattorias, etc.

The garden and the pool were not great, but we knew that from the pictures beforehand, and the washing machine was not very useful, as it was difficult to use and took a long time [alas, a wash cycle in an Italian washing machine can take up to 3 hours!].

The view is "only" above average because the wonderful trees blocked some of it.

All in all, a wonderful location for our party of six.

We went to Summer in Italy when an agent we were working with could not find us a suitable villa on the Amalfi Coast. You did a good job for us, we found a property that worked for us, and things worked on site, though we three couples all arrived at different times. The villa was consistent with our expectations, and the advance materials were good, especially the opportunity to confirm special arrival plans, etc. Thanks for a job well done.

Travel tips

  • The grocery down the street (Tutto per Tutti) is better than expected, and guests can find virtually all the basics there, including some nice wines.
  • Get to know the bus system, as it is highly reliable and the best way to get around without having to park and dodge the tour buses yourself.
  • We went to Ravello on market day because of that and were very disappointed that there was hardly any food in the market -- mostly clothes and dry goods.

Estrella C.

Rock Hill, South Carolina

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

July 2006 - Enjoyed the views of the ocean from the master bedroom and balcony terrace as well as from the garden. As for the location, you could not ask for better as the villa is located within walking distance from the bus stop and from the supermarket (Tutto per Tutti)!

A fabulous hotel (Hotel Margherita) is located across the street from the villa and the owner (Margherita) was a tremendous source of information as well as a fabulous cook!

We contracted a cook (Pina) who was fabulous as well but I would recommend that if a cook is contracted, to specify the budget for the groceries to be used as 250 Euros for 2 meals seemed a bit extreme but then again she was a fantastic cook!

The only negative would be the 45 steps from the kitchen up to the front door but what can you do. We had an enjoyable week to remember for a long time.

We hope to visit the area again! Also we contacted a taxi company run by Claudio and Emiliano who were very helpful as well.

Summer In Italy is a fantastic company!! I happened upon your site by accident and it was the best accident I have ever been involved in. You give accurate information and were very helpful when I contacted your company by telephone while in Praiano at Villa Sul Mare.

Jim T.

New York, New York

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

July 2006 - Perfectly lovely.

We enjoyed everything about it.

 

 

Joy F.

Blackburn

United Kingdom

VERIFIED

Excellent

September 2005 - We had a lovely family holiday at Villa Sul Mare - 3 generations.

We enjoyed shopping at the local village store. Excellent fresh fruit, veg. bread gnochi and pasta. Eating out expensive but home cooking a delight.

The villa was very grand and a delight to be in, as were the garden and pool. Top quality decor and furnishings. Very Italian.

The beach at Priaino was excellent for swimming and the beach restaurants good value and not too commercialised.

An excellent holiday. Thank you!

We were very pleased with your service. Villa seemed an expensive choice at first, compared to some hotel deals, but self catering was easy with such excellent food available - cheap to buy, and we all loved the villa. Friends who went on hotel packages to Italy found eating out very expensive in the famous resorts and they didnt eat as well as us.

Willem B.

Amsterdam

Netherlands

VERIFIED

Excellent

August 2005 - We really enjoyed our stay at Villa Sul Mare. Great living space, very master bedroom. The terraces we liked. The balcony of the master bedroon was super. It gave us al the confort we were looking for. The house was no problem what so ever.

The lokation was for us good. We like to be in a lokale setting. I can imagine the there are other people would like to see more luxurius surrounding. We liked it.

Super service. No problems. Keep on going!

Thank you for your work, we love you.

Jean A.

Milledgeville, Georgia

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

August 2005 - We really enjoyed our stay at Villa Sul Mare.

The people of Praiano could not have been nicer or more friendly. It was a wonderful retreat!

Be prepared to walk when out and about, but the exercise was good for us.

The local restaurants were quite good and we would love to stay there again someday.

Joseph B.

Narberth, PA

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

June 2005 - We truly enjoyed our stay at Villa Sul Mare. It exceed all our expectations.

Being in Praiano, we got to know a number of the local inhabitants and participated in the feast of San Giovanni Battista.

Pina [the caretaker] was especially helpful.

Summer in Italy did a great job. My daughter Alicia rented an apartment in Positano last year and highly recommend your services and you did a great job!

Amir H.

Lahore

Pakistan

VERIFIED

Excellent

June 2005 - Yes, indeed we very much enjoyed Villa Sul Mare, it was so homily that it felt like a vacation home, away from home.

Our enjoyment was multiplied because of Praiano’s location, which is mid point between Amalfi and Positano, but quieter as it does not have the big town feeling.

Summer in Italy gave excellent service and we have no words with which to thank the staff for their care and interest in getting our visit organized.

Judy L.

Pasadena, CA

United States

VERIFIED

Excellent

June 2005 - Villa Sul Mare was even better than the online description and photos. I especially loved the personal touches of the flowers in every room and fruit bowl waiting for us upon arrival.

I would recommend Villa Sul Mare to anyone who wants to experience the beauty of the Amalfi Coast and small town feel of Praiano.

The people were wonderful to us - five women living la dolce vita. Our caretaker, Lucrezia, was very helpful to us, especially with her recommendation of La Strada, by far the best food we had anywhere during our week in the Amalfi Coast. Ask for Rafael.

I had a great experience. You were responsive to my questions via e-mail and also later when we called you for advice re: transportation arrangements. Claudio was a great taxi driver who helped us out greatly during our trip. I would use you again.

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