Imperial Hotel Tramontano

The Imperial Hotel Tramontano is one of the old grand names of Sorrento, set on the cliff edge just west of the town centre, above the sea. The building has a long history and is traditionally linked with the family of the poet Torquato Tasso, who was born in Sorrento, and the hotel plays on that heritage with period details, frescoed and tiled interiors and a tone that feels more like a private palace than a modern chain. The great draw is the garden: terraces of citrus trees, flowers and shaded paths lead toward the edge of the cliff, with views across the bay to Vesuvius and Naples. Rooms are traditional in style, and those with a sea view or a balcony are the ones to ask for. A restaurant and terraces make it easy to take dinner without leaving the property, and the setting suits couples, honeymooners and travellers who want a classic Italian hotel rather than a design-led one.

Location is a strength. The hotel stands on a quiet stretch along the cliff road, so you have the sea at the garden's edge, yet Piazza Tasso and the old town are only a short walk away. It is also convenient for the harbour, where boats leave for Capri and the coast, although the climb back up from the water is steep, so plan taxis or the town lift if you are carrying bags.

A sea-facing room with a balcony is the best choice, because the evening view over the bay is the reason many guests return.

In warmer months the hotel's outdoor spaces come into their own, with a seasonal pool, a sun terrace and a platform at the water level that is used for swimming. Outside summer, those features may be closed or limited, so the pleasure of a stay lies in the gardens, the lounges and the restaurant. Always check which facilities are open for your dates, because services shift between seasons, and many hotels on this coast close for part of the winter. Breakfast and parking arrangements vary by rate, so confirm them when you book.

The hotel suits couples, anniversaries and travellers who value character over modern minimalism. It is less suited to those who want a very contemporary design, a large gym or a lively nightlife scene. Light sleepers should ask for a room facing the garden or the sea rather than the road, and anyone with limited mobility should ask about the layout, since historic buildings often involve steps and older lifts.

For a first visit to the bay, it combines the convenience of a central address with a sense of occasion, and it is a natural counterpart to the Excelsior Vittoria for travellers comparing the grand hotels of Sorrento.