Ravello, Amalfi Coast
La Rondinaia
Gore Vidal's legendary Ravello villa, perched 400 metres above the sea with 6 bedrooms, multiple terraces, crystal greenhouse for 200, pool terrace, and terraced gardens of cypress and lemon.
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About La Rondinaia
La Rondinaia — the Swallow's Nest — is one of the most storied private villas on the Amalfi Coast. Perched 400 metres above the Mediterranean in Ravello, this 950-square-metre villa was home to the American writer Gore Vidal for over 33 years, during which it became a salon for writers, artists, filmmakers, and political figures. Built in the early 20th century for Lady Lucille, daughter of Lord Grimthorpe, and completely restored in 2019 with furnishings by Italian artisans, the property offers terraced gardens of cypress, lemon, olive, and chestnut trees cascading down the cliff, multiple ceremony and reception terraces, and a crystal greenhouse Winter Garden that seats 200 for gala dinners.
Max Guests
200
Exclusive Use
Yes
Highlights
Key Features
- Gore Vidal's Former Residence (1972-2005)
- 400 Metres Above the Mediterranean
- Crystal Greenhouse Winter Garden (200 Guests)
- Terrace of the Muses (100 Guests)
- 950m² Villa with 6 Bedrooms
- Fully Restored 2019 with Italian Artisan Furnishings
- Terraced Gardens: Cypress, Lemon, Olive, Chestnut
- Pool Terrace for Aperitivi
- Total Privacy & Exclusivity
- One Hour from Naples Airport
Heritage
A Living Monument to Italian History
Built in the early 20th century for Lady Lucille, daughter of Lord Grimthorpe, La Rondinaia takes its name from the Italian word for swallows — the villa resembling a nest perched on the cliff face. The property gained international fame when Gore Vidal purchased it in 1972, living and writing here for over three decades.
Gallery
La Rondinaia in Pictures
Spaces
Event Spaces & Capacities
| Event Space | Cocktail | Seated Dinner | Buffet | Ceremony |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Terrace of the Muses The villa's most dramatic ceremony space, suspended above the Mediterranean with panoramic coastline views. Ideal for symbolic and Protestant ceremonies of up to 100 guests. | 100 | 80 | 100 | 100 |
| Winter Garden (Crystal Greenhouse) A spectacular crystal greenhouse accommodating up to 200 guests for gala dinners. The glass walls frame the Mediterranean panorama, creating an unforgettable reception setting. | 200 | 200 | 200 | - |
| Pool Terrace The pool terrace offers a relaxed setting for welcome drinks and aperitivi, with the cliff dropping away to the sea below. | 80 | - | - | - |
| Panoramic Terrace An after-dinner party terrace with Mediterranean views, ideal for dancing and late-evening celebrations. | 100 | - | - | - |
| Belvedere Terrace An intimate dining terrace for 10-12 guests, perfect for the rehearsal dinner or post-wedding brunch with the most exclusive views in Ravello. | - | 12 | - | - |
Facilities
What's On-Site
6-Bedroom Villa
The 950m² villa contains 6 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms, with vaulted ceilings, arched doorways, fireplaces, and sea-view terraces. Furnishings crafted by Italian artisans during the 2019 restoration.
Swimming Pool
A clifftop pool with the Mediterranean 400 metres below — one of the most dramatic pool settings in Italy.
Terraced Gardens
Gardens of cypress, lemon, olive, and chestnut trees cascade down the cliff, offering total privacy and multiple settings for intimate moments throughout the celebration.
Experiences
Curated Experiences
- Customised catering with local Amalfi Coast cuisine
- Full wedding planning coordination
- Floral design and event decoration
- Live music and entertainment
- Photography and videography
- Guest transport arrangements
- Boat tours and coastal excursions
Location
Getting Here
Address
Ravello, 84010, Amalfi Coast (SA), Italy
Travel Times
Nearby Experiences
We're still mapping the best local spots around La Rondinaia. Check back soon or ask your planner for personalised recommendations.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum wedding capacity?
Was this really Gore Vidal's home?
How many guests can stay overnight?
What types of ceremonies are available?
How exclusive is the venue?
Get in Touch
Enquire about hosting your wedding at La Rondinaia
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