Where to Stay in Amalfi: B&B Punta Civita
The variety of B&B's on the Almalfi Coast is astounding. I needed to book one room for a night, out of the high season and I was still faced with thousands of hits as I combed through HomeAway, Airbnb, and local hotel search engines to find a place. If you're trying to find decent accommodation at an affordable price in July or August, forget about it. Rooms are booked out 6 months in advance and things get competitive as the entire Italian population races to secure a beach holiday in the hottest months of the year.
Thankfully, if you're reading this, you won't have to deal with any of the above. Stop right now and pick up the phone and call, (or email), Roberto at Punta Civita B&B. This bed and breakfast is a 10 minute bus ride from the famous town of Amalfi, another 10 to the slightly less touristy Ravello, and located in a breathtaking position above the coastline.
When I first found Punta Civita online, I had been making phone calls and sending emails for two days. I was definitely annoyed and very tired of being told, "Sorry, but we're booked" or "Okay, but it's double the normal price because we're in high season". Roberto's friendly voice when he answered me, "Yes, we have a double room for a standard price, just for the night you need it!" was like a sign from above. I immediately reserved it, without the need to send a deposit like so many other accommodations require.
In the following days, I sent emails back and forth with Roberto, asking for advice about our travel plans. He quickly set me straight when I asked if there was a train station closer than Salerno (there isn't) and gave me advice about the best way to navigate my way along the Amalfi Coast. The day we arrived, I texted him to let him know when we would be checking in (any time after 2), and he told us the exact bus to take and which stop to get off at. He also tried to meet us outside and flag the bus down, but our slightly irate bus driver was not in the best of moods and instead took us 5 minutes further up the mountain. While unplanned, the walk down to Punta Civita was stunning.
As anticipated, Roberto was very kind and amusing in person. He showed us around our lovely room and the picturesque outdoor area of the B&B. There is a terrace surrounding the small building, with multiple levels and beautiful gardens. The view from our private terrace was breathtaking. To take full advantage, Tori and I took some pictures with the help of our impromptu photographer, who if you ask nicely is VERY happy to indulge in a little photoshoot.
We made dinner plans in Ravello that night, at Ristorante Conpalone, which turned out to be at the hotel where Roberto worked for 10 years before starting his own business. Dinner was insanely delicious and we enjoyed name-dropping Roberto as much as possible (which was a lot considering how many times I was able to fit his name in this post alone).
Breakfast in the morning is one of the nicest perks of this location, with a full spread served to your table by non-other than the infamous owner. Cappuccinos, caffe, and fresh fruit juice were offered as refreshments and the simple Italian breakfast included various types of bread, croissants, and an absolutely fab homemade crostata with oranges from their own trees. We ate, lounged in the sun, and planned our day to Positano with the help of the staff.
If we had more time, I would've loved to relax on the premises a bit more because with a book, some wine, and the outdoor seating provided to every guest, I would be the happiest camper.
Punta Civita has multiple rooms, all with air conditioning, mini fridges, private baths, free wifi, TV, and private terraces. The double rooms run for €90/night in March, and €110 from April to November when it closes. An extra bed can be added for €30 and parking onsite is available. Breakfast is included with the price of the room.
To arrive at the B&B, the best way is by car or to take the SITA bus from Amalfi to Ravello, getting off at Civita near the Cantina Ettore Sammarco.
Reservations can be made through the website, email (info@puntacivita.it) or over the phone at + 39 089 872326.
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