Baba Residences

The Baba Residences are spread between two purpose-built blocks -- Riviera and Liguria -- with cheerful pastel peach facades adorned with pretty awnings and finished in local gray stone.  Attractive flora features heavily in and around the complex with plenty of bright colorful flowers, cacti, scented herbs, and Mediterranean shrubbery. While the grounds provide plenty of space for enjoying fine views over the sea, the property overlooks quite a busy road which can disturb the otherwise peaceful environment -- especially from the Liguria block (Riviera is positioned further up the hill). The hotel is also set in 20 acres of holiday park, which includes some camping facilities. The apartments are particularly popular with self-sufficient families and vacationing groups, while four-legged friends are also well catered for; there's even a terrace area called "Snoopy" for canines. Due to its location with slopes and steps, however, it would be a struggle for guests with mobility issues.

The property is located on a hillside overlooking the sea between Alassio and Albenga (both a five-minute drive away) on the Italian Riviera in the Ligurian province of Savona. The local shingle beach can be accessed in a few minutes on foot through a tunnel running under the busy road in front of the apartments -- the beach is split in two parts between a fee-paying side with cabins and loungers, and the other that's free of charge. There's also a small grocery shop nearby, though with a limited selection, and there's not a great deal of bars and restaurants within walking distance; a car is recommended for exploring the locale. The nearest town is Albenga, under a 10 minutes' drive away, while the closest airport is Cristoforo Colombo Airport, which is an hour away just outside Genoa.

The 16 apartments are spread between the Riviera and Liguria blocks, all of which are decorated in fresh, simple styling with tiled floors and pastel tones. Units can sleep up to six people, while even the smallest studio-size apartments open to furnished terraces with lovely sea views. All accommodation also includes fairly well-equipped kitchenettes, as well as free Wi-Fi and 22-inch flat-screen TVs with satellite channels. Bathrooms are clean and well-maintained with heated towel rails, shower/tub combos, and bidets, while toiletries are high-end Ortigia products. While Liguria apartments are generally more spacious with better views, they are positioned above the road and thus are prone to traffic noise. Overall, decor is a bit bland but clean and cozy enough.

There are two restaurants within the grounds -- "Il Carrubo," which serves traditional Ligurian meals, and "Pizzeria Mandarini," which also provides a take-out service. The on-site bar/mini-market also serves breakfast, sandwiches, and a limited selection of groceries for self-catering. Leisure facilities include a tennis court as well as trampolines and soccer equipment, though no gym, pool, or spa amenities. Free Wi-Fi can be access throughout most of the property, while guests arriving by car have access to free parking nearby. There's is also a pay self-service laundry available on-site to guests.