From Palazzo to Paradise: Two Sisters Transform an Italian Gem into a Luxurious Hotel

The Amalfi Coast, an enchanting masterpiece of nature, gracefully reveals its timeless allure as it stretches along the rugged shores of Southern Italy. Like a harmonious symphony of land and sea, this region captivates the senses with its breathtaking beauty.

Majestic cliffs, adorned with vibrant hues of lush greenery, cascade towards the cerulean Mediterranean, creating an ethereal panorama that is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Nestled amidst this coastal wonderland, picturesque villages emerge like jewels. Quaint streets wind their way through narrow alleyways, revealing shops, charming cafes, and ancient treasures that whisper tales of a storied past.

Perched like a celestial sanctuary 365 meters above the azure expanse of the Tyrrhenian Sea, Ravello emerges as a captivating resort town along the legendary Amalfi Coast. Its fame lies not only in its breathtaking vistas but also in its enchanting cliffside gardens, an ethereal fusion of nature and human ingenuity. In this idyllic realm of beauty, stands a jewel among treasures - the illustrious Palazzo Avino, affectionately known as the 'pink palace.'

A realm of opulence and refinement, this splendid luxury hotel is currently under the stewardship of two remarkable sisters, Mariella Avino and Attilia Avino. Weaving a spell of indulgence and hospitality, the Palazzo Avino beckons travelers to immerse themselves in a world where elegance meets tranquility, and the boundaries of reality seem to gently dissolve amidst the timeless allure of Ravello's majestic heights.

The mesmerizing hotel initially caught my attention through an article penned by Jim Dobson, featured in Forbes, just a month ago. I learned that the remarkable Palazzo, once under the stewardship of their father, Giuseppe Avino, underwent a remarkable transformation orchestrated by the sisters, resulting in it becoming a stunning haven nestled along the coastline.

Having been immersed in the intricacies of the hotel industry since childhood, the sisters now spearhead this magnificent establishment, boasting a total of 43 splendid guest rooms and suites. Among its many highlights, the hotel offers an outdoor heated pool and spa, a Michelin-starred restaurant (headed by the chef, Chef Giovanni Vanacore), and an exclusive beach club, complete with a pool, restaurant, and more, all set against the backdrop of the sea.

“Our father always had a dream and a vision of having his own hotel,” Mariella had stated to Forbes, “I remember, as a kid, we were visiting beautiful properties for sale. Then he found this building abandoned on the hill of Ravello, saw the potential, and fell in love with it. The dream indeed came true at that moment, and we opened in 1997 after two years of conservative renovations and since then have added many beautiful pieces and ‘color’ to the property.”

With plans underway for their upcoming venture at La Cascinetta Garden and Vineyard in the forthcoming season, the sisters are hard at work spearheading a culinary school amidst a breathtaking backdrop of Ravello’s exquisite gardens.

As the sisters continue to hold the reins of the renowned Palazzo Avino, they demonstrate the profound significance of preserving one's roots. Their unwavering dedication to continuing their family name and lineage through the hotel exemplifies the power of heritage and legacy.

Beyond the breathtaking architecture and opulent amenities, they have also embraced the art of hospitality, a timeless craft that lies at the heart of the travel sector. It is through the Avino sisters’ passion for delivering exceptional experiences and creating lasting memories that they perpetuate the essence of true hospitality, ensuring that every guest who walks through the doors of Palazzo Avino is enveloped in warmth, elegance, and a sense of belonging.

In a world where trends may come and go, the art of hospitality remains an enduring pillar, weaving together the threads of culture, tradition, and genuine human connection.

Photos courtesy of: Palazzo Avino, Jim Dobson/Forbes