We stayed 4 nights and liked the handy location, but then almost everything in Monterosso would be handy because even with both old and new sections, it is a small community.
Breakfast is served buffet style in a large dining room off the lobby and we enjoyed having several choices and nice quality food. Another plus was beach towels in the lobby at no charge.
The room was just okay (small and plain), but after a disappointing first impression we got used to it. It was nice to be able to throw open the tall balcony doors and let the breeze and sunshine in. However, the balcony had not been cleaned up; it had a dirty table and chairs and a drying line and overlooked unattractive messy back walls of other buildings. And, we were really bothered by flies after opening the doors. The bathroom had a small shower that worked okay and there was some (not much) surface space for toiletries.
The garden touted on the website is above the building on several terraced levels and does have a grand view (if you're standing). However, it badly needs caretaking and is not inviting. The chaise lounges on part of one level were usually occupied. The web photos were much more attractive than the actual garden.
The reception staff were nice, but did not go out of their way to do anything extra or offer any information. For instance, when I asked for restaurant recommendations, the hostess did not have any suggestions. After my prodding, she finally mentioned the Belvedere. Her reluctance did not seem to be related to the fact that the hotel serves dinner (if reserved in advance; I believe it is a fixed price menu), but more like she hadn't thought about it and did not want to make the effort.
We were annoyed that wifi was only available in the dining room/lobby area, and not in the room.
So, the hotel worked okay for this trip, but not sure I would book here again (especially at the nightly rate of 130 euros/couple in early Oct).
- Albergo Degli Amici Hotel
