Grand Hotel Excelsior

This hotel is celebrated for its breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast, offering a stunning panorama from almost every vantage point. Its signature feature is its elevated position, providing a peaceful escape from the bustling town below, making it an ideal choice for couples seeking a romantic and tranquil getaway, sightseers eager to capture iconic coastal vistas, and families looking for a relaxing base with convenient access to local attractions. Guests consistently praise the efficient shuttle service and the exclusive private beach, which significantly enhance the stay. The attentive staff and delicious breakfast further contribute to a memorable experience. To maximize your visit, consider requesting a newly renovated room for enhanced comfort and be sure to pack water shoes for the rocky private beach.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of appealing facilities designed for relaxation and enjoyment. The pool is a highlight, boasting incredible views of the coast and providing a serene atmosphere, though some guests note it may close seasonally or lack heating. A significant draw is the private beach, accessible via a dedicated shuttle and elevators, offering a pristine and secluded spot for swimming and sunbathing. Guests appreciate the convenience of an on-site bar for drinks and snacks, and a game room equipped with air hockey, table football, and pool tables provides entertainment, though some feel it could benefit from updating. Wi-Fi is generally reliable throughout the property, and the availability of free parking is a valuable amenity in this region.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the hotel’s cleanliness to be excellent, with rooms consistently described as spotless and well-maintained. However, feedback on room comfort and condition is mixed. Many reviews mention that some rooms appear dated or old-fashioned, with sparse furnishings, while others rave about the newly renovated rooms, particularly on higher floors, which are described as modern, bright, and very comfortable. A recurring point of contention is the bed comfort, with many guests finding the beds to be hard or uncomfortable, though some found them perfectly fine. Spacious balconies with stunning views are a consistent positive. Some guests reported issues with thin walls leading to noise from neighboring rooms, occasional bad smells in the bathroom, or a lack of in-room amenities like a coffee maker or sufficient power outlets.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast at the hotel generally receives high praise, described as very good to excellent, with a wide selection of options including fresh squeezed juice, served on a veranda with spectacular views. However, a notable point of dissatisfaction for many guests is the use of disposable tableware for breakfast, which is seen as unecological and surprising for a hotel of this caliber. The restaurant offers a mixed dining experience for dinner; some guests found the food quality to be exceptional, delicious, and even superior to options in town, while others reported disappointing meals, undercooked dishes, or issues with cross-contamination for allergies. The bar provides good drinks and snacks, and room service is available, though some guests noted an additional fee and occasional service issues.

Location & Accessibility
Perched high on the cliffs, the hotel’s location offers breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast and the town below, providing a peaceful retreat away from the crowds. Its primary accessibility feature is the indispensable shuttle service, which is free, frequent (running every 20-30 minutes), and highly reliable. This service transports guests directly to the Amalfi town center (conveniently located near the ferry dock) and the hotel’s private beach, making exploration effortless. While the hotel is not within walking distance of the town due to winding, narrow roads and significant elevation changes, the shuttle effectively mitigates this. The provision of free parking is a significant advantage for guests arriving by car, as parking in the area can be challenging and expensive.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, described as exceptionally friendly, helpful, attentive service, and accommodating. Guests frequently highlight the professionalism and kindness of the front desk team, who assist with everything from quick check-in to arranging excursions and addressing concerns. The shuttle drivers are also highly praised for their skill and pleasant demeanor. Housekeeping is noted for being thorough and efficient, ensuring rooms are kept clean. While the majority of interactions are positive, some guests reported less satisfactory experiences with certain waitstaff in the restaurant or bar, describing them as inattentive or lacking enthusiasm. A few instances of miscommunication regarding shuttle services or room issues were also mentioned.

Additional Information
The hotel is undergoing a gradual modernization, with many guests praising the newly renovated rooms on certain floors (such as the 5th and 6th), which offer contemporary comforts and design. However, some areas and rooms still retain a more retro charm or an older aesthetic. Guests should be aware of seasonal closures for amenities like the pool or private beach, which may occur without extensive prior notice, particularly towards the end of the season. The hotel utilizes room tablets for convenient booking of services like the shuttle and room service, enhancing the guest experience. While the hotel restaurant is generally well-regarded, some guests found the wellness treatments offered to be of poor value.