Villa Astor

DESCRIPTION OF THE VILLA

Villa Astor stands as the epitome of prestige in Sorrento, perched on a natural promontory that offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Sorrento, facing Naples and Mount Vesuvius. Its expansive garden, recognized as one of Europe’s top twenty, boasts over seven hundred plant species, including towering trees and exotic flora. Enriched with decor from diverse sources, assembled with the discerning taste of a collector, the park spans approximately three hectares, descending in gentle terraces to meet the sea.

Nestled on a cliff, this majestic retreat reigns supreme, offering one of the world’s most breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples. A true paradise, this property boasts a rich history dating back to the 1st century A.D. when it served as the residence of Agrippa Postumus, grandson of Emperor Augustus. Acquired by Lord William Waldorf Astor in 1905, the villa underwent transformative expansions, including the creation of a splendid garden on the former grounds of a Dominican monastery.

Lord Astor’s final addition, the “Pompeiian” villa adorned with Ionic columns and neo-classical frescoes, adds a touch of timeless elegance. Despite a period of obscurity, Villa Astor continued to attract notable figures, including philosopher Benedetto Croce during World War II. In the 1970s, the villa found new owners, Mariano Pane and his wife, hosting illustrious guests like Princess Margaret, Rudolf Nureyev, Gregory Peck, Sophia Loren, Franco Zeffirelli, and Gianni Agnelli.

Today, Villa Astor stands as the essence of luxury on the Amalfi Coast, lauded by prestigious publications such as Town & Country, Quintessence, Forbes, Bloomberg, and the Telegraph.

INSIDER TIPS

Luxurious Accommodations: Indulge in the timeless charm of Villa Astor’s six luxurious suites, each individually designed by renowned interior decorator Jacques Garcia. Furnished with period pieces from Sotheby’s and Christie’s, the rooms exude sophistication. Sumptuous marble bathrooms complement each suite, creating an atmosphere of opulence.

A Museum of Antiquities: Villa Astor houses a museum-worthy collection of Greek and Roman antiques once owned by Lord Astor himself. The lush gardens are adorned with ancient artifacts, many originally excavated from Pompeii, creating an ambiance reminiscent of the Metropolitan Museum in New York, as acclaimed by Forbes.

Dream Weddings and Events: Villa Astor, named one of the trendiest Italian wedding venues by Brides Magazine, is the perfect backdrop for romantic celebrations. Exchange vows in the lush garden with panoramic views, dine al fresco under the stars, and create unforgettable memories in this enchanting setting.

ACCOMMODATION

800m2 main villa spread on different levels.

GROUND FLOOR: Begin your journey through this magnificent villa on the ground floor, where the grandeur unfolds seamlessly:

Entrance Hall (50sqm): Welcome through the impressive entrance hall adorned with Roman columns and statues. Access the terrace with panoramic sea views through three enchanting French doors.
Office: Step into the office, a space with a desk and sea views, meticulously preserved in its historical state as utilized by Benedetto Croce.
Living Room (30sqm): Relax in the spacious living room featuring sofas and expansive sea views from large French doors.
Octagonal Room: Explore the octagonal room adorned with floor-to-ceiling cabinets displaying exquisite ceramic findings.

LOWER GROUND FLOOR: Descend to the lower ground floor, where luxury meets functionality:
Foyer (30sqm): Enter the elegant foyer adorned with antique Roman statues.
Kitchen: Discover the fully equipped kitchen, a culinary haven.
Breakfast Room: Enjoy meals in the breakfast room for four, with access to the outdoors.
Dining Room (35sqm): Dine in style in the impressive dining room boasting a marble table, antique Roman statues, and terrace access with sea views, furnished for al fresco dining (can be covered).
Living Room (55sqm): Immerse yourself in the spacious living room with original floor tiles, antique Roman statues, frescoed walls, and access to the terrace overlooking the sea.
TV Room (25sqm): Unwind in the comfortable TV room with sofas.
Guest Bathroom: Experience luxury in the marble guest bathroom.

FIRST FLOOR: Ascend to the first floor and indulge in lavish sleeping quarters:
Bedroom: Retreat to a bedroom with walls painted in Pompeii-inspired red, a king-size bed, parquet floors, and a garden view. Enjoy an en suite bathroom with a tub, separate shower, and sea views from two large window doors (total approx. 50sqm).
Master Bedroom: Luxuriate in the master bedroom featuring Pompeii-inspired walls, a king-size bed, three big windows-doors with sea views, parquet floors, and an en suite bathroom with a tub and separate shower. The living room offers three big French doors, sea views, and a hidden TV in the mirror (total approx. 85sqm).

SECOND FLOOR: Climb to the second floor and explore the sleeping quarters:
Corridor: Traverse the 10m long corridor with original 19th-century tiles.
Double Bedroom (Brown Velvet): Enter a double bedroom with brown velvet accents, a king-size bed, three windows with sea and Sorrento views, hidden TV, and an en suite bathroom with a tub and separate shower (total approx. 58sqm).
Double Bedroom (Red Velvet): Enjoy a double bedroom with red velvet touches, two windows with sea views, TV, en suite bathroom with a tub and separate shower, and a walk-in closet (total approx. 37sqm).
Two Double Bedrooms: Rest in two slightly smaller double bedrooms (approx. 20sqm each) with garden views and individual en suite bathrooms (shower).

ROOFTOP: Ascend to the roof via stairs and revel in nearly 360-degree views over Sorrento, Mount Vesuvius, the garden, and the sea-side. The rooftop space is elegantly furnished with cushions and features a convenient shower.

GROUNDS: the domain includes a 20,000m2 botanical garden with fountains, lily ponds and a small pool (8,5X3m) as well as private access to the sea and several large caves.
Small Gym Area: Stay active in the small gym area equipped with an elliptical machine and weights, complemented by a TV.
Indoor Pools: Descend further, taking 100 steps to reach two indoor natural pools/ponds/basins with saltwater. Enjoy direct sea access via a dock.

ANNEXE (available at extra cost): Discover an additional space on the lower ground floor:
Terrace: Descend 21 steps to a terrace with an umbrella.
Living Room: Enter the annexe’s living room furnished with a sofa, offering incredible sea views from expansive windows.
4 Double Bedrooms, each equipped with a bathroom and shower

SERVICES

Included: Central heating. Air conditioning. Electricity. Broadband internet. Final cleaning. 2 sets of bed and bath linen per week included in the price. English-speaking Concierge. Maid service, daily for up to 4 hours. Parking for 3 cars.

ABOUT THE LOCATION

• TOWN/VILLAGE
• Sorrento Marina Grande 200m
• Sorrento town center (Piazza Tasso) 1km
• Massa Lubrense 7km
• Sant’Agata sui due Golfi 10km
• Positano 17km
• AIRPORT
• Naples 50km
• Salerno 70km
• RAILWAY
• Sorrento 1.5km
• HARBOUR / FERRY
• Sorrento 1.5km
• Hydrofoil from Sorrento to Capri (25 mins)
• Ferry from Naples to Sorrento (1 hr 50 mins)
• SHOP/RESTAURANT
• Sorrento under 1km
• BEACH
  
• Direct access to the sea from the villa
• Sorrento under 1km
• Maya Beach 6km
• Marina della Lobra 7km
• Marciano 9km
• ACTIVITY
• Tennis 1.5km
• Boat hire | excursions
• Hiking on Mount Faito | Mont Vesuvio
• ATTRACTIONS
• Private boat hire (Sorrento Harbor) 1.5km
• Grotta Azzurra | Villa Jovis | Via Krupp on Island of Capri
• Island of Ischia | spa
• Pompei 27km | Hercolaneum 40km
• Sorrento 1.5km | Positano 17km | Amalfi 33km | Ravello 40km
• Napoli Castel dell’Ovo | Piazza Plebiscito | Posillipo hill 54km
• Royal Palace of Caserta 75km

YOU WILL LOVE

• Exclusive Luxury: Immerse yourself in the historical charm of a prime Location conveniently situated in Sorrento
• Breathtaking Views: Marvel at the legendary 270-degree views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius from your bedroom window or spacious terrace
• Botanical Bliss: Explore the 20,000m2 botanical garden, a haven for over 1000 plant species
• Seaside Bliss: Swim in the natural grotto or plunge directly into the sea
• Cultural Exploration: Visit Naples, Pompeii, Herculaneum, or explore local towns
• Experience the extraordinary at this gateway to luxury, history, and natural splendor

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

Refundable Security Deposit €35.000 required for this villa (fully refundable within 30 days after departure if no damage occurs). Food Allowance of €10.000 to be paid in advance.
In order to secure the booking, 50% non-refundable deposit is required for this villa.
Adjacent to the villa there is an annexe featuring 4 double rooms, each equipped with a bathroom and shower. It’s important to note that the quality of these rooms is lower than those found within the main villa. An additional cost is required. Short stays are possible on request. Please inquire for more details and request a quote.
Pets NOT allowed. Pool opening dates from end of March to the end of August.