L'Eremo sul Mare

'Hermitage Over the Sea'

What makes L'Eremo different is that, unlike most of Cinque Terre's accommodation, it isn't situated in the centre of one of the five villages, but just a short walk from Vernazza. This location gives visitors a nice feeling of being miles away from anywhere whilst still being handy for restaurants and bars in the evening.

To reach the guesthouse, you leave the path that connects the villages together just before Vernazza and climb a rather steep set of stone steps; I couldn't recommend this place for anyone who's less than averagely fit, but if you are, I think this adds to the feeling of discovering somewhere off the (very) beaten Cinque Terre path. The walk between L'Eremo and Vernazza becomes a little more tricky at night when there is hardly any light, but it's worth it to experience the twinkling lights of the village growing smaller and less bright as you walk back.

The hotel itself is very pleasant. The building is attractive and there's a garden where guests can sit out and enjoy the views. The living room and kitchen are available for guests to use, and are well-equipped. Our room was nice, with antique furniture and a private bathroom down the corridor, and was perfect for a romantic break.