TORRE D'ARTISTA
Positano on the famous Amalfi Coast, near Naples
Unique property sleeps 11 in 7 bedrooms (4 doubles, 3 singles)/6.5 bathrooms, partial air-conditioning, WIFI — overlooks the sea with private beach access; comes with staff and private boat service
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Torre d'Artista is set on a rocky outcrop jutting into the turqoise sea, framed on one side by the charming village of Positano and on the other, a breathtaking view of the open sea. This unique property can be reached only by boat (5 minutes) or on a footpath from the beach (15 minutes); it is not possible to reach the house by car. There is a public parking lot 15 minutes from the Torre, and taxi-boat service is available 14/7 from the main beach of Positano. One of the most prestigious homes on the Amalfi Coast, this unusual property offers complete privacy, beautiful surroundings, unique architecture and a truly fascinating history.

The renowned futurist artist Gilbert Clavel restored this old Norman tower in 1927, summoning his artisan contemporary Enrico Lietz from the north of Italy to custom design furniture conforming to his vision. Clavel entertained many famous guests in this house, including Cocteau, Depero, and Picasso.

This awe-inspiring pentagonal residence is built on four levels, with a subterranean level built right into the rock. The various levels and areas are connected by pathways, passages, and corridors — all in balance with the natural environment — and the interior is furnished with delightful simplicity and originality. The harmonious relationship between structure and environment is reflected everywhere, in the choice or materials, colors and light, and the overall effect blurs the lines between indoors and out.

From the terrace, look seaward toward the isles of Capri and I Galli; or turn to admire Positano's whitewashed houses spilling down the cliffs to a harbor dotted with sailboars. Enjoy the many cafés, shops, and restaurants of Positano, or travel the scenic coastal road, stopping at Praiano, Amalfi, and the spellbinding uphill town of Ravello. Take a boat trip to the islands, visit Naples, or explore the ruins of ancient Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Arrive at the Torre by water taxi or on foot, taking the staircase to the private entrance gate and path. The property is divided into three different parts:

LA TORRE (air-conditioned)

• Lower level: Fully equipped modern kitchen with dishwasher
• First level: "Blue bedroom" double with divisible beds (on request) and charming view towards the sea; en suite bathroom (tub with hand-held shower), view of Positano
• Second level:
  Spacious living room with views towards Positano, ocean and seacoast, with fireplace with antique glass tiles, small fridge for cold drinks, TV SKY, CD player.
  Single bedroom; en suite bathroom with shower; this bedroom has access to a little balcony overlooking the sea
• Third level:
  "Yellow bedroom" double with queen bed; en suite bathroom with double sink and tub
  Internal staircase to the roof terrace on the top of the Torre, with 360° view over the sea and coast

A balcony circles the tower on three sides and includes a south-facing open terrace with a painted tile floor by the famous ceramicist, Ernestine.

LE SIRENE (air-conditioned)

• First level: "Sirene bedroom" double with divisible beds (on request) and all west-facing windows; bookcases and desk designed by Clavel; small corridor leads to en suite bathroom with tub and separate shower
• Second level: "Diamond bedroom" single bedroom named for the diamond shape of the ceiling, designed by Clavel when he laid the parquet floor; view of Positano, satellite TV; unique open space small bathroom with shower and only drapes for privacy
• Third level:
  Living/dining room with bamboo couches, chairs for five, round dining table for four, TV (satellite) with VCR (PAL), CD player
  New corner kitchen with granite counters, microwave, 4-burner gas stove, small electric grill, double sink

Le Sirene also has a fantastic, spacious terrace with breathtaking views, BBQ, and a teak dining table with director chairs for eight.

PORTICATO

• Lower level:
  Long, tiled dining terrace furnished with a large wooden table large enough to accommodate everyone for a long lunch or al fresco dinner. The spectacular view through an open arch frames Positano.
  Sitting room furnished with red and white cushions on wicker couches, accommodates six comfortably; CD payer.
  Small corridor leads to the main kitchen, fully equipped with 5-burner gas stove, oven, large fridge, separate freezer, dishwasher, microwave; Vietri ceramic tiles, charming window faces Positano. This is where Angela, the wonderful chef, prepares meals.
  Spacious adjacent room is used by staff for laundry, casual meals, etc.
  Arched glass doors lead to covered terrace with washing machine and dryer.
  Custodian's apartment is on this level but has independent access.
• First level:
  "Green bedroom" double with divisible beds (on request), screened, opens onto the principal terrace; window screens, ceiling fan, breathtaking view of Positano
  "Library bedroom" single with antique parquet floor and original desk designed by Clavel; window and double doors open onto the principal terrace
  Bathroom with tub and hand-held shower, bright yellow tiles, double sink, small window faces Positano
  Guest half bath
  

Although the villa has three kitchens, the gas will be turned on only in the main kitchen (in Il Porticato). This is the kitchen used by the cook. The other facilities (fridge and water) can be used in the other two kitchens.

This is an ideal accommodation for a large group of people who want to enjoy both secluded and shared spaces, and who wish to experience one of the most unusual and elegant residences on the Amalfi Coast. The picture is completed by an exceptional staff whose love and dedication to this property will enhance your villa vacation.

Because there are numerous staircases, corridors and walkways connecting various parts of the house, this property is not suitable for young children or guests with walking problems.

Amenities: air-conditioning (Torre and Sirene), satellite TV/VCR, wireless high-speed internet access, washer & dryer, dishwasher, telephone/fax, BBQ, fans for all bedrooms, shaded terrace with simple weight-training equipment. The villa comes with full staff: caretaker (speaks English), housekeeper, fantastic cook (speaks English), and server.

2010 Prices