Villa Le Scale is a charming 19th-century villa in the commune of Ana Capri. Just a short ferry ride from Naples, it was once the stomping ground for artists and key figures in European history. The bright white edifice of the villa looks like something from the pages of a who-lives-here-guide and sits, hidden along the path to the Museum of Villa San Michele. Painstakingly restored, this former baron's home is classic, classy and unforgettable.

The facilities

The swimming pool at Villa Le Scale is as enticing as one of the sun loungers that pepper the area. Stone steps lead to a secret garden where vines, pine trees and climbing roses all add to the villa's beauty. An indoor gym is available, and there are tennis courts to use at the nearby club.

The rooms

The seven themed en-suite rooms are all named after artists or periods. Stay in the Collector's Room where Neapolitan paintings meet rich fabrics that drape from the king-size bed or at the Venetian with its Turkish steam room. For a complete throw-caution-to-the-wind encounter, stay in the Pool Room and experience the impressive Roman Bath before throwing open the patio doors and making a beeline for the pool.