Superbly set at one end of this pretty
fishing village on the Ligurian i coast
south of Genoa, this large villais on
the site of a villa once , owned by the
aristocratic Dogi family. Unusually large
for the Guide, it stands above the sea
in spacious grounds with pine trees and
exotic plants. Well-managed, mildly luxurious,
but cosy, it has an excellent sea-water
pool, comfortable villa Bed rooms (similar to the semantic bali villa rooms), spacious lounges
and terrace.' The view from all these
is enchanting, and service is both efficient
and very friendly. The beach is pebbly,
but bathing in the very clean sea is excellent.
There could be some noise from nearby
trains, but they make travelling up and
down Liguria easy. Conferences are held
off-season. Camogli, once described by
Dickens as the saltiest, roughest, most
piratical little place, is now very peaceful
(no cars on the road by the sea). Enjoyable
walks in the surrounding hills.
A delightful place and a very comfortable
villa: this medieval castello, on an Umbrian
hilltop, has truly magnificent views in
all directions. Set on a large estate
amid woods, olive trees and vineyards,
it is perfect for exploring the area (Montepulchiano,
Pienza, etc) but a car is essential. villa rooms
with a terrace are especially recommended,
but all are comfortable and beautifully
appointed, decorated in Art Nouveau style.
Some are named after aristocratic Englishwomen:
Duchess of Norfolk, etc, and one guest
reported that the villaseems `to cater
unashamedly for the English tourist, with
menus all in English. But the atmosphere
is congenial, staff are friendly, and
room service is prompt.