Monterosso Mare
Hotel La Spiaggia-Cinque Terre Italy


It is noon as the Lazy train from La Spezia suddenly stopsat my destination "Monterosso". A short hike and five minutes later I am in the lobby of the Hotel La Spiaggia. Julia greets me and in minutes I am unpacked and strolling along via Fegina. Salt water scents from the Ligurian Sea mixed with aromas of homemade focaccia bread from nearby Fornaio di Monterosso fill the air. The pedestrian only road is lined with colorful shops and umbrellas twisting along the sand and rocks overlooking the sea.

Andrea Poggi has owned this grand old hotel for years. Julia and Ella work the reception area and give the art of hospitality a new meaning. There are 19 rooms and some with balconies facing the deep blue waters of the sea. Below the hotel is a boardwalk of cafes and bars which are bustling with happy guests and the sweet smell of local delicacies as they party into the late night. The street noise did not bother me as I went to bed early so I could start my daily adventures at the crack of dawn. If you are a night owl you would probably be part of the deal. The La Spiaggia does not take credit cards but you do get a 10% cash discount.

I was a guest for 13 nights and traveled to various sites on the train for day trips: Florence, Milan, Pisa, Portofino, Portevenere, Lavanto, Santa Margherita Ligure, and La Spezia. This was a great way to visit the "Italian Riviera" and experience other towns and villages' in the Northern gateway and return each night to our "remote alternative to the French Riviera".

This was one of the most comfortable hotels I have stayed in my travels to Europe. The room was clean and well designed. The amenities that really matter to make your stay something special were all in place. The closet had abundant storage space with ample wood hangers, a place for luggage, and a room safe. The electrical system was modern with plenty of plugs for charging cameras, cell phones and lap tops. The TV was flat wall mounted with two English stations BBC, CNN, and channels in Spanish, Italian, German and French for all the international travelers. The private bath was modern with sufficient counter space and large soft towels with hair dryer and an efficient hot water system. The elevator was modern and efficient. Those who travel to Europe know these little extras can help make your stay a special event.

The breakfast room was open from 8:30 to 10:00 am offering abundant choices each morning. There were fresh fruit, yogurt, cheeses, savory croissants and homemade breads, cakes, cereals, granola, juices, jams pastries, hard boiled eggs, ham, prosciutto, coffee and tea with hot or cold milk

I paid 150 Euros per night which includes parking, beach access, breakfast and one great experience. I highly recommend the Hotel La Spiaggia for travelers of all ages.

Hotel La Spaggia Via Lungomare 98, Monterosso al Mare, Ital telephone 0187-817-567. Website: www.laspiaggiahotel.com. Email: hotellaspiaggia@libero.it

by Tom Ellerbe - September 23, 2009

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