You need to be fit to stay at Villa Cimbrone. If you don't arrive by helicopter, you approach by a 15-minute uphill walk through the pedestrian zone on Ravello”s steep hillside (your luggage travels in a small truck). A recent visitor reported, 'Once there you will find a grand old house in large and romantic garden. Pergolas, paths, temples, flowerbeds, urns and statues abound, and there are vertiginous views of the Amalfi coast below. The gardens immediately surrounding the hotel are well kept, but the rose beds are sadly neglected. The lovely swimming pool is unheated.' There are acres of shiny tiles, peaceful corners inside and out for sitting; terraces for alfresco eating. The Michelin-star restaurant overlooks the view. Look out for the barman who spent two years at the Garrick club in London. Breakfast is 'a buffet with cold and hot dishes, a DIY toaster; jams and butter in jars and packages create lots of litter. No menu, but we discovered that if you ask, they will fry an egg as an alternative to the scrambled under a cloche'. Bedrooms are comfortable; many have a panoramic terrace. In season the gardens can be busy with package tours.