Hotel Margherita

This small family-run hotel is a lovely little place inside and out -- even its sign is special, crafted from Mediterranean tiles. A stone foundation with arches and iron balconies distinguishes the facade of the three-story pink-and-white building. The lobby is bright and welcoming, with a vintage Italian sofa and chairs. Flowers and plants add a homey touch, and guests can borrow the books from the shelves lining the walls. The front desk doubles as a bar, and the breakfast room is off to the side. An on-site lemon grove helps the property feel even more authentically Mediterranean, and the incredible sea views are visible from many points. The cozy, laid-back ambience makes this a favorite for those passing through the Amalfi coast and looking for a quieter alternative to the area's larger towns. Due to its undeniable romance, guests are mostly couples, but families and groups of friends make their way here too.

The hotel is located in the village of Praiano along the Amalfi Coast, a 20- to 30-minute drive from both Amalfi and Positano. It's not directly on the sea but on a hill close to the village center. Getting to the area beaches takes about five minutes by car or less than 10 minutes walking, and the hotel provides free shuttle service. The hotel's location and its free on-site parking (unusual in this area) make it particularly suitable as a starting point for exploring the coast. Keep in mind that Praiano is one of the smaller villages in the area, and though there are a few restaurants and a bar, it's quiet alternative to its more bustling neighbors. It's a 45-minute drive to Sorrento and 75 minute to Salerno. Naples International Airport is about 90 minutes away, and there's a bus stop near the hotel. 

The 28 rooms at Hotel Margherita come in three categories -- Classic, Superior, and Deluxe -- and can accommodate from one to four guests. Decor varies a bit from room to room, but across the board the Mediterranean decor is simultaneously classic and contemporary, with colorful tile floors, hand-painted traditional Italian furniture, and creamy colored walls. Expect to see lots of soft greens, blues, and yellows throughout the rooms. Some even have painted ceilings and murals, giving them a slight whimsical touch. 

All rooms have balconies or terraces, with views of the fragrant lemon grove or beautiful sea. Amenities include air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, radios, tea- and coffeemakers, and minibars. Bathrooms feature colorful tile -- depending on the guest they will look either charming or dated -- and Classic and Superior Rooms have small, walk-in showers. Deluxe Rooms have both tubs and showers, and some have jetted tubs. All bathrooms include hairdryers, toiletries, robes and slippers, and bidets. 

As a small hotel, there are a limited number of features here, but some of what's on offer is surprising for the area and category. M'ama restaurant -- which is only open for the hotel's high season in the summer -- serves regional cuisine in a lovely open-air space overlooking the sea. Lounge chairs and sofas are set up on the adjacent terrace, where guests can hang out and enjoy the incredible view. Next to the lobby, the breakfast area is cozy, with a mural along one wall and a bookcase filled with books that guests can borrow. All meals get solid marks and the free breakfast includes buffet options like breads and pastries, plus made-to-order items like eggs. We especially like that proper espresso drinks were included in the breakfast. 

Aside from food, there are also a few leisure facilities. The pool area is small but pretty, and there are lounge chairs positioned for taking in views of the sea. A whimsical statue atop the rocks is poised and ready to dive in. Guests who use the small fitness center also are treated to those same spectacular views, but the workout will be short -- there's little equipment beyond a couple cardio machines and a universal machine -- and some of the machines are rusty. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel and free parking is available on-site, which is a rarity in the area.