HOTEL STENO

Description:
When you get a clear view, the road to Monterosso is absolutely, breathtakingly beautiful, but when fog comes your way, you see non existing ravines and shapes and get the impression that you are hurling yourself to a sudden death. But our guardian angel did overtime, and brought us safely to Monterosso. Two signs, bearing the same name, each pointing to another direction. We do not care too much; we cannot really get lost here and do not fear that, according to the saying that all roads lead to Rome, we will end up in the capital.
Indeed, we drove into Monterosso and, before going to the hotel, we wanted to get some idea of this lovely village. The little church is modest and quiet but lovely and the outside invited us to a visit inside. Once there, a strange smell entered our nostrils. Incense, of course, but what else? We finally found the source: in the little container of Holy Water: several very, too dead fishes floated around. A typical case of mischief by some acolytes? Boys will be boys, whether in Italy or in The Netherlands, or wherever else, for that matter. It made us smile, and we did not rapport our findings to the church authorities. Let somebody else be the "snake in paradise"!

However, we did not eat fish that evening, but the next day we had completely forgotten the smell in our nostrils and enjoyed a fabulous fish dinner. For, of course, there is no lack of fresh fish in the restaurants here and all dishes look – when inspecting the plates of other diners – very appetising. There are good restaurants in this village, and many shops selling the local specialities.
Monterosso forms part of the five villages of the so-called "Cinque Terre" (the five villages on the main land), a most wonderful stretch of coastal land close to the big city of Genova. It is, still, rather unspoilt, that is to say, you will look in vain for discotheques and a "wild" nightlife. But if you like walking, or just want to enjoy nature, this is your spot. You can walk all you want, and chose from many special routes. A warning, however: those with physical handicaps, or couples with young children, would do better to either take the train or the boat to visit this lovely strip of land. And this could be a most pleasant variation to walking, even to those who like to go for a stroll!

Hotel Steno, in Monterosso, proudly and deservedly bears three stars. Do not look for lots of entertainment, though. The sportive-minded have discovered this hotel a long time ago and are not inclined to require from the hotel management to provide them with the possibility to dance and drink the night away. The rooms are comfortable and offer all you need. The management lies with a family, a fact which always means that there is more attention for details and personal wishes than the average hotel chain can boast of. The hotel is situated smack in the middle of the age-old hart of Monterosso, at only about 150 m. distance of the mini-beach and the little harbour. When we visited this hotel, we felt surrounded by the warmth and friendliness of the staff, treating us like it really should be everywhere but unfortunately not always is, namely as if we were the only, ultimate guests. The heart of the hotel is the intimate breakfast lounge, with a small reception area for the guests. On the whole, you can enjoy lovely views from all the rooms.

Facilities:
Reception, breakfast lounge (complete with a small bookcase filled with books on the surroundings), bar service, terrace, parking space (please, do reserve this beforehand!)

Rooms:
The hotel has 16 double rooms, simply but adequately furnished and very clean, with telephone, t.v. and air-conditioning. The bathrooms are small, with a wash basin, toilet, bidet, shower and hairdryer. Most rooms have a balcony or access to a (small) garden with garden seats and have a beautiful view of Monterosso or the sea. Some rooms can accommodate 3 or 4 persons.

Possibilities for sport/excursions:
Several water sports; boats for hire. And then, of course, walking. At the reception, you will upon request receive information on lots of routes. The local tourist information office does the same. Excursions: a fine choice of interesting boat trips. Ask either at the reception or the local tourist information office. The big city of Genova is, of course, worth while to spend at least a day in. When you book, we will provide you more than adequate information.

Distances: (approx. kms.)
Sestri Levante 45 km, Portofino 73 km, Genova 89 km, Viareggio 87 km.

Particulars:

Prices are per room per night, inclusive breakfast buffet and local taxes. Minimal booking period: 3 nights

Check-in on the day of arrival after 14.00 hrs, check-out on the day of departure before 10.30 hrs.

Pets not allowed

English spoken

Public transport: Train and boat