The Hotel Nella is an average hotel in the area but I beefed up my rating by one because they've got a such a nice staff, the price is very good compared to other places in the area, and they were very welcoming to my dog. Eighty euros got me a standard bedroom with space for a small desk, a loveseat and a bathroom. For one person and a dog it was plenty of space. The bed was typical european: firm but comfortable. There was storage built in around the bed which would be great for people staying more than a day or two. The bathroom was a good size with all the necessities and clean. The floor throughout was tile which got cold at night, but the Hotel Nella thoughtfully provided guests with slippers. Breakfast was included in the room price and was an extensive European breakfast. No complaints there. Parking was easy and free.
The staff was great throughout my short stay. The gentlemen who checked me in was welcoming and pleasant and also provided me assistance with the area. The woman who checked me out was just as pleasant and was very nice when I booked. Even the cleaning staff was very helpful.
One note--there isn't a lot immediately surrounding the hotel. It has a good access to hiking paths and is just a short drive from La Spezia and Riomaggiore, but there didn't seem to be much within easy walking distance. There is a pizzeria directly across the street and a cafe-bar and an osteria (which smelled incredible when I walked by) just around the corner. It is definitely not a bustling metropolis--which I saw as an advantage.
Bottom line, I wasn't looking for an extravagant hotel so Hotel Nella was perfect for me and my budget on this getaway. I will stay here again, but next time will probably request one of the rooms with a balcony.
- Nella Hotel La Spezia
