Excelsior Palace Portofino Coast - Rapallo

The old grande dame of Rappallo, we were expecting great things of this iconic hotel on the coast. Indeed the main public rooms are grand and impressive although outside space for sitting was limited. Our room was tiny and ill-furnished, facing the car park, it cost way too much. The food in the restaurant was adequate but mediocre, certainly not special. This place s living on past glories and needs to wake up...

This hotel was spectacular. It was wonderfully, if not decadently and palatially, furnished throughout its lobby, in the hallways, in its dining areas, and when I opened the door to my upper level room with a water view and terrace, I was stunned. The room was not the largest, but it was furnished beautifully and thoroughly with every amenity, including a writing desk, lovely bathtub, plenty of storage, and more. The bed and other furnishings made me feel like a princess, which was the reason for this trip--to celebrate a milestone birthday. The view of the sea and coastline was stunning from my room and around the property. The breakfast buffet was special as was the ambience in the dining area. You could sit inside or outside on a large terrace overlooking the sea and cliffside coastline communities. Cute little bar off the lobby. I booked a massage (reasonably priced); however, two construction workers on the other side of the massage room refused to comply with management's request to cease operating loud machinery. The disturbance was so great, the therapist spoke to the front desk on my behalf, and the fee was waived. However, I would definitely stay at this property again. I walked along the coastline to Santa Marguerita and back in about 30 minutes each way. A convenient train ride to Camoglia (highly recommended) and up the Portofino Coast as well as south to Cinque Terre. The hotel was reasonably priced for the amenities. However, there were two negatives: menu prices were exorbitant, although I enjoyed eating out on my excursions. The other is the hotel entry is up a steep and winding path/driveway. Another visitor asked if I knew an alternative to get to and from the property. I inquired from the desk and was told there was no other way. I didn't mind the walk as it is close to the train station. But my arrival toting a suitcase and backpack up that path was quite formidable. I would have taken a taxi had I known. I took one when I left.

Stunning property with exceptional service. Loved our stay at this magnificent hotel. Walking distance to the town of Rapallo with many eateries, shops and attractions. The accommodations were comfortable. Fantastic breakfast at the restaurant every morning. The views from our balcony were spectacular.