Orient-Express Hotels today announced that its fourth hotel in Italy, Hotel Caruso in Ravello, which overlooks the spectacular Gulf of Salerno on the Amalfi coast, is due to open on June 21 2005. Following Orient-Express Hotels’ acquisition of the historic buildings and land of Hotel Caruso Belvedere in June 1999, a US$30 million restoration program has been implemented. The property perches on a hilltop 350m above sea level and encompasses the ‘Belvedere’ garden and a splendid 13th Century Colonnade with 360 degree views. All is being painstakingly restored to provide an idyllic setting for the 54 guest rooms with a restaurant, outdoor heated swimming pool and leisure facilities.

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“Ravello is one of the most beautiful and romantic places in the world,” commented Simon Sherwood, President of Orient-Express Hotels. “We were delighted to find a property with a distinguished history and an exceptional location, high above the crowds but with easy access to this magnificent stretch of coast. Hotel Caruso will be a fitting sister to our established Italian properties, Hotel Cipriani in Venice, Villa San Michele in Florence and Hotel Splendido in Portofino.”

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During the restoration, ruins were discovered dating from the 12th century and those, along with some areas that had previously been abandoned, are now being restored in agreement with the Fine Arts authorities. This has facilitated the creation of some suites and junior suites. The finished property will also have facilities for events and groups.

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The location of the hotel will appeal to guests looking for either a cultural retreat or touring base, rich in ancient history. Nearby attractions include Ravello’s 11th century Duomo and the many music festivals held in the immaculate ornamental gardens of the 13th century Villa Rufolo. Day visits are also available to the fascinating ruins of Pompeii and Paestum, while the fashionable resort of Positano and the Island of Capri are also close by.Ê

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Many people visit simply to relax, to explore the medieval passageways and to enjoy the unhurried lifestyle of the pedestrianized main square, the Piazza Duomo, set among the slopes of citrus trees and olive groves.

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Since the first rooms opened in what was then called the Pensione Belvedere in 1893, the hotel has played host to writers and artists, aristocracy and royalty.Ê Famous names in the Golden Book include Greta Garbo, Margot Fonteyn, Gina Lollobrigida, Humphrey Bogart and Jackie Kennedy.

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Ravello is a 50 minute drive from Naples International Airport with good train links from Venice, Rome and Milan.
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