The Vibe
Bellevue Syrene is one of those places that just makes you want to stay all day. The views over the Bay of Naples are absolutely beautiful, and the whole hotel has a relaxed, old-school Italian charm. It feels more like staying in someone's gorgeous seaside villa than a hotel. There’s something really special about the place, from the beautiful surroundings to all the little details that give it so much character. It has that wonderful Italian coastal atmosphere where everything feels a little slower, and you find yourself just soaking it all in.
How I Felt
Relaxed. I felt so relaxed at Bellevue Syrene. There were a lot of older couples staying there, everyone taking their time and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. The hotel itself felt like walking into a wonderful antique store, filled with beautiful old furniture, paintings and interesting pieces collected over the years. It had a very old-money feel, elegant without trying too hard. Nothing felt trendy or overly designed. There was no rush, no need to be anywhere and everyone seemed perfectly content just enjoying the day. I loved that about it.
The Digs
The Vesuvius Suite felt more like having my own beautiful apartment in Sorrento than staying in a hotel. The elevator opened directly into the suite, which I loved, and there was a huge terrace with a private Jacuzzi where I could relax and enjoy the views. The bathroom was gorgeous, especially the freestanding bathtub with beautiful natural light, and the Etro bath products were such a lovely touch. I also loved the artwork featuring Mount Vesuvius, which gave the suite a real sense of place. Everything felt spacious, private and comfortable and I could easily have settled in for a much longer stay.
The Agenda
My mornings at Bellevue Syrene began with a visit to the breakfast buffet, set up in the hotel's beautifully ornate dining room. After choosing what I wanted, I would take my plate out to the terrace and enjoy breakfast overlooking the Bay of Naples, lingering over my cappuccino and the view. After breakfast, I would head down to the hotel's private beach platform and spend a few hours swimming, reading and enjoying the sunshine. By late afternoon, I was ready to wander through the streets of Sorrento, browsing the little boutiques, stopping in shops filled with beautiful Italian linens, ceramics and local treasures. Of course, there was always time for a granita along the way. Nothing was planned too carefully, and that was part of what made the days so enjoyable. I could take my time, explore whatever caught my eye and return to the hotel whenever I pleased.
The Eats
Bellevue Syrene has several restaurant settings. La Pergola is especially beautiful, with outdoor dining overlooking the Bay of Naples. Breakfast was one of my favorite parts of the day. The buffet was arranged in the beautifully ornate dining room, and I would take my plate out to the terrace to eat. The Club Lounge was another lovely touch, with complimentary drinks and snacks available throughout the day. I loved that there were so many places to sit, have something to eat or drink and enjoy the surroundings. I also loved wandering around the town and having dinner at a family-run establishment called The Garden da Gennaro. It was clear the pasta and pizza were made from scratch with love.
Why I Would Go Back
I would return for my room. The Vesuvius Suite is one of the best rooms I’ve ever stayed in. Between the spaciousness and the views, I truly could’ve lived there.
Latifah Al-Hazzà
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