Hotel Villa Agnese

The scene at Hotel Villa Agnese is relatively quiet (traffic from the highway is barely audible) and family-friendly. Most guests leave for the day after breakfast to explore the coast and Cinque Terre. The hotel is accessed through a gate and down a short driveway. Indoors, the lobby looks new and classically decorated with some eccentric touches, like portraits of dogs dressed as humans lining the black and white stairs and walls. Stark white armchairs with wood details and a corner bookshelf filled with guidebooks and novels make the lobby a comfortable spot to linger -- as does the adjacent bar. Outside, white awnings add shade to groups of wicker chairs and tables. Potted lemon trees, stone pathways, and an olive tree give the space a Mediterranean vibe.

Hotel Villa Agnese has an off-the-beaten-path location not far from the highway exit of Sestri Levante. You'll need a car to get there, explore the area, and eat at local restaurants as the hotel only serves breakfast. The Ligurian Sea is a 10-minute drive from the hotel; expect a little further of a distance to get to Cinque Terre. The surrounding neighborhood is mostly residential and can be a little gritty, though tennis courts directly in front of the property are a pleasant touch. Underground parking at the hotel is free and ample, and no reservations required. Airport transportation is available for a fee.

There are just 16 rooms at Hotel Villa Agnese, and each of them is well-lit and clean. Tile floors, white walls, and high ceilings look elegant. The beds are simply made with white or gray and white checked coverlets. Beware of twin beds pushed together to make a double. Hand-painted flowers add a romantic flourish above white headboards. Some rooms have kitchenettes and furnished balconies overlooking the swimming pool. Free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and mini-fridges are standard. Orange or green tile in the bathrooms looks dated, though maintenance isn't an issue. Most rooms have showers and single sinks on long vanities. Upgrade to a superior room for a bathtub and double sinks. Past guests have occasionally complained about dampness in the rooms.

Hotel Villa Agnese is an eco-friendly hotel with some helpful free features. Much of the energy for the property comes from renewable sources including the air conditioner controlled by a geothermal plant. The free daily breakfast is made with organic ingredients when possible. Pets are welcome -- there's even a special spot in the garden for them. Wi-Fi and underground parking are free. The outdoor swimming pool is a popular spot for sunning on lounge chairs, then cooling off in the water. While there isn't a restaurant, the lobby bar serves cocktails, beer, and wine. Check rates at Hotel Villa Anita for a whirlpool, fitness center, and breakfast buffet -- but you'll lose the spacious rooms at Hotel Villa Agnese.