Doria Park Hotel

Lerici is known for being one of the most romantic seaside towns on the Italian Riviera. The pastel-painted residences, intensely blue waters, castle on the harbor, and forests have inspired loads of artists and poets over the years, including Lord Byron. Doria Park Hotel takes full advantage of all the picturesque scenery from it's hilltop perch above the village. Guests (mostly couples, and some families) linger over the views from the breakfast patio in the morning, then gather on the elegant patio, with brown wicker furniture, for aperitifs while the sun sets over the water. Inside, the hotel has a refined atmosphere and beautiful trimmings like gemstones, fresh flower arrangements, and seashells placed on the windowsills in the lovely sitting room. Fresh fruit, white candles, and soft music are nice touches, and classic Italian decor includes blue patterned carpets. The hotel has been lovingly owned by the same family since it opened in the 1950s. 

At first glance, Doria Park Hotel may seem like it's too out of the way to properly enjoy Lerici and the beach. By car, the hotel is accessed from the top of a hill and the driveway winds down (and would be difficult to walk up) the hillside until it ends at the hotel's parking lot. However, the hotel has a handy shortcut via a gated entrance that leads down a pedestrian set of steps (two-minute walk) directly to the heart of Lerici's square. The square is filled with al fresco restaurants, gelato shops, and souvenir stores, and leads to the harbor, promenade, and castle. A five-minute walk down the promenade brings you to a pair of beach clubs where visitors can rent chairs and have lunch. Farther afield, it's about a 45-minute drive to Riomaggiore, the first village in Cinque Terre. Pisa International Airport is a 50-minute drive. Plan on about two hours in the car for visiting Florence. 

Rooms at Doria Park are as elegant and refined as the public areas. Most of them have been refreshed to incorporate a more modern design with wood floors, a gray color palette, and Frette linens, but some rooms still have a classic Italian design that features blue patterned carpet and a gold color scheme. All units feature a refrigerated minibar, flat-screen TV, phone, electric kettle, air-conditioning, and large closet or wardrobe. Wi-Fi is free, but it can be spotty. Junior Suites have the most floor space, and some of them have a separate sitting area. One unit includes an unusual glass closet in the center of the room, designed not to block light or views. The centerpiece room, Junior Suite Special Golfo dei Poeti has a private terrace with a whirlpool and sun loungers, but the room itself shows a bit of wear in the carpeting. Most of the rooms have a spacious bathroom that can include either a huge shower with horizontal and overhead jets, or a whirlpool tub. Toiletries, hairdryers, and towel warmers are provided. The best part of the rooms are the stunning views of the village and water, which are especially nice from units with balconies. However, Comfort Rooms have small windows that overlook the back of the building with no views to speak of. 

Features are well thought out and mostly take advantage of the hotel's sweeping water views. The day starts with a gourmet breakfast buffet that's included in all rates. There's a machine for blending fresh veggies and oranges into juice, plus hot items like eggs, bacon, and oatmeal. The spread uses high quality and local ingredients, and many guests linger over cappuccino and croissants to enjoy the views from the breakfast area, either indoors or out. Lunch isn't served, but the dining room opens at dinner for excellent Italian cuisine with an emphasis on seafood and tasting menus. Room service is also available. There's a lovely lobby bar for a full selection of premium liquors, specialty coffees, and wines. Parking if free in a large lot. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.