Built in 1741 and lovingly restored in 2013, this mesmerising villa is Italian architecture at its finest.

There’s no need for rose-tinted glasses here – everything from the dusty pink exterior to the glistening infinity pool spells ‘la dolce vita’ and makes this the kind of home you’ll be desperate to return to after a long day of sightseeing. Inside, a plethora of unique design details – think frescoed walls and authentic Neapolitan mosaics – add to the villa’s palatial feel, while, outdoors, a terrace running the entire length of the property offers plenty of space to eat, drink and be merry with your fellow guests.

Start each day with a cup of coffee on your private balcony, then head outside for a refreshing dip in the infinity pool. We could see ourselves spending all day here, gazing out at the Tyrrhenian Sea and sipping a cool glass of wine, but if you want to mix things up, your host will be more than happy to help you arrange any number of extra services – from in-house massages to private boat rentals – to make your stay one to remember.

When night falls, dine al fresco on authentic meals prepared by the villa’s very own private chef, or wander into town and treat yourself to an evening out at one of the village’s finest restaurants. John Steinbeck once wrote of Positano, ‘It is a dream place that isn't quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real after you have gone’ so whatever you do, make the most of it. And don’t be surprised if you find yourself booking a return trip when you get home...

Home truths:
*If you're travelling by plane, Naples International Airport is the nearest airport – it's a seventy-five-minute drive from this home
*Your host can provide a cot for free upon request
*There's a dedicated library with scanner, fax machine and photocopier here if you need to catch up on some work during your stay
*There are 150 steps leading up to the front door here
*The pool here is available for use from the beginning of April to the end of October – it isn't fenced, so children will need to be supervised at all times