Grand Hotel Portovenere
Cinque Terre Area, Italy
Grand Hotel Portovenere overlooks the Gulf of Poets, a deep and wide bay on the eastern tip of Liguria’s coast. This destination is a feast for your eyes and soul, as suggested by its name, which stems from the inspiration that the area has had on poets and artists over the centuries. Among them: writers David Herbert Lawrence and Percy Bysshe Shelley, writer and painter George Sand, and poet Lord Byron. Portovenere is the perfect base for a tranquil stay off the beaten path, yet close to famous destinations like the villages of Cinque Terre, glamorous Portofino, and Tuscany’s Riviera and art cities.
Your stay at Grand Hotel Portovenere is suspended between the modern luxuries of the boutique hotel, the ancient past of the Franciscan Convent, and the unparalleled landscapes of Portovenere, Palmaria Island and the Gulf of Poets.
When choosing Grand Hotel Portovenere you will be staying in a Dimora Storica, an ancient building that has been recognized as part of Italy’s historic and cultural heritage. Our building dates back to the 1600s, when it hosted the monastery called “Convento di San Francesco” under its elegant vaults and simple interiors. Towards the mid-1800s, the monastery was transformed into the Hospital of the Marine Military, and later still into the headquarters of the Municipality of Porto Venere.
n 1975, the historic complex was transformed into a hotel that eventually closed in the 2000s. In 2014 it reopened under new management and impressive refurbishment to become the only 5-star boutique hotel in the Cinque Terre – Gulf of Poets area. The careful restoration at Grand Hotel Portovenere brought back to life beautiful details of the original convent, including red-brick vaulted ceilings. The rooms are equipped with modern luxuries and amenities, yet retain a sober and elegant style that is reminiscent of the Renaissance-era monastery.
In addition to all the details that take you back in time, you will enjoy an unforgettable stay thanks to the large windows and the grand terrace overlooking the charming village and harbor of Portovenere; by the Mediterranean flavors and aromas that ignite your senses at Palmaria Restaurant; and by the inimitable landscapes of the Gulf of Poets.
The contours, materials and furnishings of your accommodation in Portovenere reflect the utmost attention to detail. Simplicity and linearity create a relaxing atmosphere that pays homage to the history of the building, while offering modern comforts along with a mix of contemporary and classic styles. Modern and relaxing colors recall the tones of the surrounding natural environment and reflect the light. Many rooms are also enriched with terraces, balconies and French windows overlooking the bay and the village, offering views of incomparable beauty.
ROOMS & SUITES
Classic Double rooms are located throughout the hotel and have a view of the internal courtyard. Cozy and bright, our Classic Double rooms are complete with a queen bed or two euro-single beds and a full marble bathroom. Room size: 15 – 20 m² (161.45ft² - 215.28ft²).
Double Executive rooms features a unique space, sea views, and a full marble bathroom with either a shower or a tub. Some rooms include a small terrace or a balcony. Room size: 20 – 25 m² (215.28ft² - 269.10ft²).
Deluxe rooms are locatedthroughout our historic building,are bright and feature large windows overlooking Palmaria Island or the castle and surrounding hills of Portovenere. Every Deluxe room has unique architectural elements, and some include a terrace or balcony. Each Deluxe room is complete with a king bed or two euro-single beds, a small sitting area and a full marble bathroom with either a shower or a tub. Room size: 20 – 30 m² (215.28ft² - 322.92ft²).
Studio Botanicus - Composed of a bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, and a separate sitting area. The room’s balcony overlooks our peaceful internal courtyard, embellished by pepper trees, tangerine and lemon trees. Some rooms have a courtesy bathroom while others offer a view of the Gulf of Poets. Bathroom with either a shower or a tub. Room size: 40 m² (431 ft²).
Scriptorium Studio -This room is composed of two separate areas. The living area features a sofa bed and a writing desk reminiscent of the historic convent’s Scriptorium, devoted to the writing of manuscripts by monastic scribes. Every Studio is complete with a king bed or two euro-single beds and a full marble bathroom with either a shower or a tub. View: Marina and Courtyard, with the Gulf of Poets in the distance. Room size: 30 – 35 m² (322.92ft² - 376.74ft²).
Cloister Terrace Junior Suite - Featuring a panoramic terrace under the arches that belonged to the cloister of the ancient convent, our Junior Suites showcase the beauty and history of Portovenere. Bathroom with either a shower or a tub. Room size: about 35 m² (376.74ft²).
Suite dei Poeti - This panoramic Suite features separate bedroom and living areas, both enjoying a spectacular view. It includes two bathrooms. The Suite overlooks the Gulf that has enchanted many poets, painters and writers from all over the world, and from which it takes the name. Its uniqueness consists in a panoramic window that embraces, like a painting, Palmaria Island, the Apuan Alps and the exquisite villages of Lerici and Tellaro. Suite size: 55 m² (592.01ft²).
Suite del Castello - This Suite features a bedroom, a living area, two bathrooms and a terrace of 75 sqm.The Suite is distinguished by its fantastic terrace and the scenery is dominated by the Doria Castle, from which it takes the name. Thanks to its unique location, this outdoor area offers the perfect place to find sheer relaxation and to enhance your senses with the surrounding beauties. Suite size: 45 m² (484.38ft²) + terrace: 75 m² (807.29ft²).
Palmaria Restaurant
Palmaria Restaurant sits on a spectacular veranda overlooking Portovenere. You will find yourself inside a sort of contemporary sailing ship that is about to sail towards the horizon: the choice of rubberized teak wood flooring, in a nautical style, recalls the ancient technique of caulking, i.e. the waterproofing of the hulls by the numerous master caulkers of the Gulf of Poets. Here nothing is left to chance: a refined atmosphere and candlelit dinners, first-class service, an original menu entrusted to the professionalism of our Executive Chef whose team will know how to satisfy even the most demanding of palates. Choose Palmaria Restaurant for at least two meals during your stay, and we will reward your loyalty with special conditions reserved just for you!
Our menu is inspired by traditional Italian cuisine and celebrates the finest products. From the pleasure of light dishes to the discovery of more eclectic and refined creations, our menu caters to every palate. The menu is inspired by the "Grand Tour", or the long journey in continental Europe (particularly in Italy) that was undertaken by the European aristocracy in the 17th century. As part of the Italian Celiac Association (AIC), Palmaria Restaurant is attentive to the specific needs of its customers and offers gluten-free menus.
Venus Lounge & Wine Bar
Venus Bar is located under the high-vaulted brick ceilings of the historic building that once hosted the San Francesco Convent. This is an ideal place to have a drink and relax at any point throughout the day. During the warmer months, you can sit on the sea-view terrace and gaze at the beauty of Portovenere and Palmaria Island while enjoying a cocktail prepared by our bartenders.
Tastings & Cooking Lessons
At Grand Hotel Portovenere, we invite you to indulge in unforgettable dining experiences. Join our sommelier for exclusive on-site wine tastings, savoring local vintages with stunning sea views. Or discover the fascinating world of extra virgin olive oil with a tasting that celebrates the excellence of Ligurian and Tuscan traditions! If you love to cook, our chef offers hands-on lessons, where you can learn to create authentic Ligurian dishes. For a foodie adventure, explore the heroic vineyards with guided tastings in some of the region's finest wineries.
Olive Oil Tasting
Dive into the fascinating world of extra virgin olive oil with a tasting that celebrates the rich traditions of Liguria and Tuscany.
The experience begins with the delicate, fruity oils of Lucchi and Guastalli, iconic symbols of Liguria’s olive groves overlooking the sea. It then transitions to the bold, robust oils of Olio Moro from Tuscan Chianti, known for their spicy and bitter notes. Each oil is paired with artisanal bread and local delicacies, creating a flavorful exploration of regional cultivars and production methods. You'll also receive expert tips on food pairings to enhance the unique character of each oil. Using the distinctive blue-tasting glass, you’ll focus entirely on the aromas and flavors, setting aside visual bias for a truly immersive experience.
Beaches
Portovenere enjoys a unique seafront location with few but beautiful beaches overlooking Palmaria Island and the typically pastel-colored buildings. Between Portovenere and Lerici there are secluded bathing spots that can only be reached by boat or hiking. Palmaria Island also has snorkeling spots for a leisurely swim, while expert divers can explore the lively seabed of the Arcipelago Spezzino.
The Gulf of Poets offers some of the best beaches in La Spezia province, alternating pebbly coves, cliffs and sandy shores. One example is the beach of Punta Corvo on the opposite side of the Gulf of Poets from Portovenere. The beach is reachable only from the sea or with a steep path with about 700 natural steps from the town of Montemarcello. The dark grey sand, which originates from the crumbling of the surrounding rocks, offers a beautiful contrast with the Mediterranean vegetation, the cliffs and the blue sea.
Boat Rental
Our elegant motorboat - Tullio Abbate 'Soleil 33' - is the best way to explore every corner of the magical destination between the Gulf of Poets and Cinque Terre.
Portovenere Wellness
"Portovenere Wellness" provides the best of cosmetics, products and professional treatments for the guests of the Grand Hotel Portovenere and for all those who want to feel healthy and take care of their body. Our wellness center offers a thermal circuit with a turkish bath, sauna and emotional shower; a fitness room, along with various beauty and wellness treatments. In addition, there are progressive methods that offer the possibility of combining the pleasure of feeling good both in the wellness center and at the Palmaria Restaurant, where you can appreciate the beautiful terrace overlooking the sea and enjoy the fresh dishes and drinks prepared at any time of the day from lunch until after dinner. Reservations are recommended.
Hiking
Choose among full-day excursions with or without a professional tour guide to explore our magical territory.
Here are some popular options:
-Hike through the famous five villages of Cinque Terre or up to the evocative Sanctuaries off the beaten path.
-Stroll in the historical centers of Lerici and Tellaro, the charming hamlets that bewitched poets like Lord Byron and Shelley.
-Go for a surprising trek on the wild Palmaria Island across Portovenere.
Parking
Portovenere has limited parking spaces, most of which must be paid for and can fill up quickly during busy times. The historic center also has a restricted driving zone (ZTL) which limits vehicle access. Our convenient, stress-free and strategic parking is right next to the harbor connecting Portovenere with the sea villages of Cinque Terre and the Gulf of Poets.
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