M A R T I N O A C A M P O R A
Interview} Ken Waller
Photographs by} John Russo
Location} Treville, Positano
Perched atop a cliff overlooking Positano on the Amalfi Coast, Treville Positano is an iconic and ultra-luxurious hotel. The former home of the acclaimed Italian film director Franco Zeffirelli, Treville Positano is a hidden gem that combines the cosmopolitan glamour of a bygone era fused with the enchanting flavors and colors of Southern Italy. Surrounded by nature, the hotel is an exclusive sanctuary that allows guests to relax in the utmost luxury. Home to the exclusive restaurant, Maestro’s, which takes inspiration from locally grown ingredients from Treville’s on-site organic farm, the vibrant in-house Bianca Bar and La Traviata, a dedicated wellness and spa, Treville Positano invites guests to experience la dolce vita in pure tranquility and style.
KW: Can you give us a brief background on yourself and how you found your way to working at the property.
MA: My journey in hospitality began early, inspired by my family’s deep connection to the industry. With a large family of over 100 members, nearly all of whom are hoteliers or hospitality lovers, luxury accommodation quickly became my passion. With over 20 years of experience with hospitality companies worldwide including Starwood, Sofitel and Hilton, I was drawn back to my roots in Campania. The opportunity at Treville Positano came as a natural progression in my career, allowing me to place my expertise and passion into one of the world’s leading and most distinguished hotels.
KW: Has your role been the same at the property, or have you worked in other roles at the company?
MA: As Treville Positano’s General Manager, I focus on crafting bespoke experiences for our guests while ensuring the smooth operation of the property. In late 2021, I was offered the opportunity by the Friedland family to assume leadership at Treville Positano and lead the development of their hospitality brand.
KW: Can you tell us the brand philosophy at Villa Treville?
MA: At Treville Positano, our brand philosophy revolves around embracing the timeless charm of the Amalfi Coast while providing unparalleled luxury and personalised service. We aim to create an exclusive sanctuary where guests can immerse themselves in the beauty of their surroundings, indulge in exquisite cuisine using produce from our on-site farm, and experience true Italian hospitality. Our commitment is intertwined with the property’s rich history and design legacy, once the esteemed home of Italian film director Franco Zeffirelli. His influence in every aspect of Treville Positano, from the meticulously curated gardens to the elegant interiors, ensuring that our guests experience the same artistic flair and attention to detail that defined Zeffirelli’s own cinematic masterpieces.
KW: What makes your property different from staying at other resorts in the region?
MA: Treville Positano stands out for its intimate and exclusive experience against the stunning backdrop of the Amalfi Coast. With only 16 uniquely designed suites offering panoramic views of the sea on a two-hectare property, we ensure privacy and exclusivity for our guests. What truly sets us apart is our rich history as the former home of Italian film director Franco Zeffirelli. This legacy of hospitality, history and design infuses every aspect of the guest experience.
KW: What about your property keeps guests returning for multiple stays?
MA: Guests return to Treville Positano for its beauty, service and unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s the breathtaking views, the accommodation or the personalised attention of our staff, guests are drawn back by the promise of an expectational stay that exceeds their expectations every time. The property has a unique ability to make guests feel like they’re returning home, amidst the warmth and charm of its history.
KW: We have stayed at the world’s top hotels, and I must say your property is by far the top of the top. The grounds are breathtaking from the staff, which is on their “A” game at all times, and the suites are simply magnificent. How have you maintained such a high level of consistent perfection in an ever-changing hotel market? Is there a secret to your success?
MA: We prioritize guest experiences above all else, continuously refining and enhancing Treville Positano to exceed expectations and provide consistent world-class hospitality. Our dedicated team have a deep understanding of our guests’ needs, working with genuine care and passion to ensure that every guest or colleague leaves Treville Positano with unforgettable memories.
At Treville Positano, the Japanese term ‘Kaizen’ is what drives our daily operations and teamwork, harnessing a culture of continuous improvement. We understand that when you do something well, there is always room for it to be done better. Therefore, we are always actively seeking feedback from colleagues and guests to ensure Treville Positano provides unparalleled luxury hospitality experiences.
KW: Tell us about some of the unique curated experiences the property offers?
MA: We offer a range of unique curated experiences designed to immerse guests in the beauty and culture of the Amalfi Coast and Zeffirelli’s home. From private yacht excursions along the coastline to guided hikes along the renowned Path of the Gods trail, Neapolitan gesture and language lessons, and cooking classes, we provide guests with experiences the showcase the best of our region.
KW: What are some of your chef’s local specialties at Maestro’s?
MA: Maestro’s our exclusive restaurant showcases the finest Italian cuisine with a seasonal menu inspired by locally grown ingredients from Treville’s own organic farm. Offering a true farm-to-table experience, Chef Vincenzo Castaldo oversees the menu, which features traditional Italian dishes infused with Mediterranean flair and international influences. Some of our chef’s specialties include freshly caught seafood dishes, handmade pasta with Mediterranean flavors, and delectable desserts made with seasonal fruits from our farm. Our Smoked Eggplant Ravioli with Datterino Tomato Sauce and the Amalfi Lemon and Purple Basil Tart using produce from our organic farm have been popular specialities among guests recently.
KW: What are some of the unique treatments La Traviata offers?
MA: La Traviata Spa and Wellness, named after one of Zeffirelli’s operas is housed within an eccentric greenhouse originally part of one of his production sets. With a wealth of international experience, La Traviata revitalises body and soul by integrating Eastern and Western rituals. Offering a diverse range of treatments ranging from Thai and Holistic massages to exfoliation packages, facials and manicures that are bespoke to each guest.
For more information, please visit https://villatreville.com/en.