because we all deserve to be treated like royalty once in awhile.

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After a long day of travel by train, I looked forward to my first sight of the Mediterranean Sea.

My trip from the station in La Spezia to Portovenere was filled with narrow and curvy streets that told me I was definitely back in small-town Italy, and I couldn’t be more excited. The moment I arrived in Portovenere, I was welcomed by a melting pot of colors from the sunrise, water and colorful buildings lining the horizon.

As the sun went down behind me, I happily started to make my way to Royal Sporting Hotel. It only got better from there, check it out!

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The Layout

Royal Sporting Hotel has it all. The location is efficient, the landscape beautiful and the service never-ending. I strolled through the brick-covered archway to the reception in awe of the tiered architecture and design. The second I walked into the hotel, the workers were helpful and welcoming to make sure I had all that was needed.

When I entered our room, I walked straight to the balcony… figures. As I watched the end of the sunset, I decided this would be my favorite hangout spot for my time in Portovenere. The room was fully equipped with a comfy bed, desk, fridge and full bathroom.

Royal Sporting Hotel had already impressed me, but the pool, dining area and tennis courts added to the ‘wow’ factor. The large pool deck was connected to the breakfast area, which allows visitors to start their day with the best morning view of the sea. As said before, there are also tennis courts available for you to work out and enjoy some leisure time surrounded by palm trees – a perfect afternoon activity if you are not into hiking the trails!

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The Breakfast

I knew it was essential to eat a healthy breakfast before I embarked on the long and uphill hike through Cinque Terre. It would be a lie if I said I wasn’t a breakfast buffet connoisseur, and I can confidently attest to Royal Sporting Hotel’s deliverance in this category.

The beautiful breakfast area was flourished with cereal, croissants, fresh fruit and many more tasty options. Royal Sporting Hotel made sure to please everyone’s necessities.

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My Suggestions

Take a boat tour of Cinque Terre. I was originally planning on hiking from Portovenere to the nearest Cinque Terre village, Riomaggiore, but the hotel staff recommended to take a boat ride instead. I am so glad I took their suggestion because I saw a postcard view of all five villages from the water in less than an hour. Each small village was colorful and bustling with people enjoying food, hikes and a dip in the water.

I also suggest you walk around Portovenere at night. Royal Sporting Hotel is only a ten minute stroll from city center. Along the way you will find many focaccerias, a park and a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea only a few steps away. Once you get to city center, there are dozens of outdoor restaurants lining the coast. If you’re a lover of fish, you’ll find plenty to eat. I decided to play it safe and ordered a burger instead – it was buono and reminded me a bit of home!

As if breakfast wasn’t enough motivation for me to get up early, the sunrise definitely did it. I love my sleep, but I highly recommend not missing the view from the balcony each morning. The sun slowly peeked above mountains and reflected pink shades onto the water right outside of the window. There was nothing more peaceful than starting the day with the beauty of Portovenere right from my cozy room.

Portovenere mesmerized me with its relaxed, Mediterranean atmosphere. I will, without a doubt, stay at Royal Sporting Hotel when I go back to the beautiful beach town near Cinque Terre.

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I want to give a gracious thank you to Royal Sporting Hotel for our magical stay in Portovenere. I can’t wait to come back soon for more wonderful service and sunsets.

always,
della