“Il San Pietro” is a hotel that has achieved mythical status in the annals of the Italian holiday, immortalized in part by the iconic photography of the great Slim Aarons. Suspended between Positano’s sheer cliffs and the azure sea, it stands as a testament to the Cinque family’s enduring tradition of excellence.
Nestled in the heart of the Amalfi Coast, carved into the dramatic crags of Positano, Il San Pietro opened its doors on June 29, 1970—a day dedicated to Saint Peter, from whom it takes its name. More than a luxury five-star establishment, it is a living masterpiece of hospitality, celebrated worldwide through the legendary lens of American photographer Slim Aarons, who so masterfully captured the effortless glamour of the 1960s and 70s Dolce Vita.
As long as you are in Positano, a part of you never leaves.
(John Steinbeck)
A Story Etched into the Sea and Stone of Positano
This extraordinary adventure was born from the visionary spirit of Carlo Cinque—affectionately known as “Carlino.” At a time when this stretch of coast was untouched, Carlino foresaw its extraordinary destiny, driven by a deep love for his homeland. Having already opened Hotel Miramare in the center of Positano alongside his family in 1934, he set out to create something truly magical. The name itself reflects a sacred tie to the sea, taking inspiration from the 18th-century chapel dedicated to St. Peter atop the Laurito headland—a timeless sanctuary for local fishermen and for Carlino himself.
By the 1980s, Il San Pietro had swiftly established itself as the coveted sanctuary for the global jet set and cultural elite, revered for its breathtaking beauty and forward-thinking ethos that anticipated nearly every modern luxury hospitality trend.
Today, managed with unwavering passion by the third generation of the family, brothers Vito and Carlo Cinque, this Relais & Châteaux haven features 56 uniquely curated rooms and suites. Each opens to sublime sea views, where authentic Campanian craftsmanship, fine antiques, and vibrant hand-painted majolica tiles harmoniously dialogue with the coastal landscape.
The Cliffside Beach Club and the World’s Most Scenic Tennis Court
With its unique geography and unparalleled amenities, Il San Pietro—the pioneer of its kind in Italy—offers a captivating sensory voyage, complete with a 360-degree panorama over Positano’s iconic cascade of pastel houses clinging to the rock.
An elevator sculpted directly into the cliffside transports guests down to the sea. Here lies the legendary Beach Club, featuring sun-drenched terraces, private access to crystalline waters, water sports, and a bespoke boat shuttle service to reach the heart of Positano in mere minutes. On land, a complimentary 24/7 private shuttle ensures seamless connection to the town center.
Perched dramatically on the same level as the private beach, suspended between the rock face and the endless horizon, sits one of the most famous and photographed tennis courts in the world.
Even the gym is delightfully embedded within a sea-facing lemon grove, while the spa invites guests to indulge in revitalizing massages, a Finnish shower, or a soothing Turkish bath.
Haute Cuisine and Craft Mixology
Il San Pietro presents a tapestry of culinary experiences, each framed by breathtaking vistas:
Zass Restaurant: A Michelin-starred jewel helmed for over two decades by Belgian Chef Alois Vanlangenaeker, serving refined Mediterranean cuisine that honors the finest Campanian ingredients.
Carlino: A casual beachfront restaurant, ideal for enjoying fresh catch-of-the-day dishes cooled by the gentle sea breeze.
Terrace Bar & L’Alcova Bar: Elegantly envisioned by interior designer Fausta Gaetani, these bars offer the perfect setting for signature cocktails, a charming bespoke food truck, and live music set against Positano’s spellbinding backdrop..
Nature and Sustainability: 6,000 Square Meters of Terraced Gardens
Crafted in sublime harmony with the natural contours of the cliff, the hotel exists in continuous symbiosis with its environment. More than 6,000 square meters of hand-carved terraced gardens form a lush haven of bougainvillea, citrus groves, jasmine, and fragrant herbs.
The estate’s organic gardens supply Zass and Carlino directly with seasonal vegetables and herbs, exemplifying a true farm-to-table philosophy that marries haute gastronomy with traditional agriculture and environmental stewardship.
Il San Pietro di Positano stands as living proof of how a legend can gracefully evolve without ever losing its immortal soul.
The Secret
For those seeking absolute privacy accompanied by the hallmark excellence of Il San Pietro, the Cinque family also presents Palazzo Santa Croce. Dominating the skyline of Positano, this grand 17th-century Baroque palazzo—originally a monastery and later a bishop’s residence—is available as an exclusive private villa. Accommodating up to nine guests across five frescoed suites, the property boasts expansive terraces, aromatic gardens, and a private spa inspired by ancient Roman baths—a unique treasure in Positano.
Useful Info
Il San Pietro di Positano
Via Laurito 2
84017 Positano, Napoli
Tel. + 39 089 875455
Rooms: from 600 euro with breakfast included
