CLIFF HOUSE - Capo Vaticano

Our family (8 persons) travelled the first time to Calabria this August 2018 for two weeks and we fully enjoyed our stay at the Cliff House. Except one short thunderstorm on Sunday after our arrival we had nearly perfect weather conditions so that we could use the terrace for almost every breakfast, supper and dinner. The sight on the sea until Stromboli is overwhelming. The stairs to the beach first were a challenge, especially upstairs, but it was getting better day by day. On the second Sunday we did a day-trip to the Lipari Islands. Over all it was worth it although the sea was a bit wavy and so several passengers (including me) became a little seasick. But we saw dolphins and especially the stops at Volcano and Stromboli were quite impressive. We bought our foods only once in a big supermarket and then mainly by local producers and in local stores. That's how we got to know the surroundings. All the staff were very friendly and helpful, especially Anna. We can imagine to come back to the Cliff House for a second stay, perhaps already in 2019. It's a phantastic location to leave the daily routine behind.

We had a wonderful week. The Cliff House was the perfect place for our family from all over to come together to swim, eat and relax together. Everything was so inviting, excellently appointed and just beautiful. Wonderful places to eat and play games in the villa, no matter the weather. The people of Capo Vaticano are so welcoming. The beach and sea both incredible, and worth the climb, up and down - we did it some days twice! The view and even the ‘weather watch’ was magical. It is a special place. Thank you, Alessandra, for being a fantastic host, and also to Anna, Cesare and Yuri for looking after us. One week was not enough.

After having stayed at the "cliff house" last year we decided to come back every year. We enjoyed our time once again very much: a lovingly furnished interior, a fabulous pool for a swim and the mediterraian at your feet. This year we brought snorkel equipment for the first time and really loved the variety of fish swimming around in the incredibly clear waters. The combination of privacy, view, nature and architecture is a one in a million find. See you next year, Alessandra!

The week we enjoyed at the Cliff House in Capo Vaticano surpassed all our expectations.

The serene architecture complements the luxurious landscape. This arid, rural setting could not be more beautiful, with the house perched on a granite massif 80 meters above the Mediterranean Sea. We were absolutely astonished at the lush, glorious landscaping of the entire property, which contrasts with the dry, agricultural character of Calabria.

The houses are lovingly constructed in a very sympathetic manner and one finds beautiful details throughout the house, from nautically-inspired door handles to lovely tiles bordering the both the indoor and outdoor kitchens. The houses have a rustic feel without resorting to imitation of historic devices, and because of their gracious proportions and robust construction, one can immediate relax in every room without exception.

Despite the allure of these architectural charms, we found ourselves spending most our time at the Cliff House outdoors. The grounds are lovely, and there has been an enormous amount of thought put into how one could, in small or large groups, enjoy the natural splendor of the place. Furnishings are comfortable and grouped in ways that follow the path of the ever-present sun. Tables and seating are positioned in and around the building in a manner that allowed us to decide if we wanted to bask in the sunshine or lounge comfortably in the shade without ever having to move a chair. The pool is integrated into the landscape in a manner that allows a frolicking swim without disturbing others who may wish to relax in undisturbed quiet. Every table, chair, door and window feel as though they must always have been there, and this timeless character is due to the remarkable skills of the architect.

Alessandra has anticipated nearly every question a visitor could ask, and sent pre-emptive answers to us in a very enjoyable document that helped us to understand and enjoy everything the house and the location has to offer. She is very organized and made sure that we were taken care of by Cesare and Anna.

Our family found the Cliff House to be just perfect for our week of vacation. It was a great place to refresh and reconnect with the family. We spent time at the beach and in the pool - mesmerized by the sunsets and views. The house was wonderful and provided a great place for the family to gather - inside or outside- - whether it was for eating, playing games or cards, or just talking - it was a perfect setting. The two cottages along with the main house provided a great balance of privacy and community space for each family. The kitchen was well equipped for the dinners that we prepared.

The markets, local bakeries and restaurants all provided a taste of rural Italy... along with excellent wine. .

I think what we appreciated most is that this was a home not just a house and the wonderful privilege of being able to stay in such a wonderful setting

Thank you