Unlike any other Portovenere hotel, this lovingly restored seafront escape is just steps from the small, picturesque town and, most importantly, the boats that whisk you over the water to Cinque Terre and the Bay of La Spezia.

In its former life, the property was a 17th-century convent; its interior design reflects the Italian Riviera's colours and light, and effortlessly blends contemporary and classic styles. Aside from wellness treatments, tastings and cooking classes, the vaulted Venus Bar, and Palmaria Restaurant, there's little else to do, but a tender (or 15-minute stroll) gets you to the private Sporting Beach Club, and an assortment of excursions can be arranged.