This was our 2nd trip to Rapallo in 2 years, last time we stayed at the Tigullio Grand but decided to try the family owned Miramare as we had looked it over on our previous visit. A friend of my wife had stayed there with her parents and sister in the 1960’s !!
Rapallo is situated in Liguria on the Bay of Tiguillio, close resorts are Santa Margherita and Portofino. The area is not a mass UK destination, very few travel companies offer package holidays there. It is a great base to explore via train network, eg Pisa, Lucca and Viareggio are within 90 minutes and to walk the Cinque Terre.
We made our own booking and sourced our flights with BA via Expedia. Daily scheduled service at civilised times from Gatwick to Genoa then by train to Rapallo ( about 40 minutes approx 10 euros ). Alternatively a taxi from the airport would be 70 – 90 euros.
Easy to get to Miramare, just turn left out of rail station then right and walk down to sea front – takes less than 5 minutes .There are taxis at the station.
Smooth check in, we had a “no fuss” warm welcome. Room was delightful, 4th floor ( the Art Deco lift is a treasure! ) with stunning view over the bay. Spotlessly clean, large, excellent modernised bathroom with full bath and shower. Bed firm but not hard and an extra pillow provided immediatly we asked.
Whilst the hotel is on the seafront ( ideally situated right opposite the local ferry departure point ) the double glazed “Juliet Balcony” window doors and shutter were effective in minimising outside noise at night, we slept well all week. Rapallo is most definitely not a “Disco” resort!!!
Breakfast served 8 – 10 in nice room with a choice of cereals, fruit, cold meats, bread / toast and pastries – couldn’t fault it and a decent cup of tea with 2 tea bags! Staff at this family run hotel were unfailingly friendly and helpful.
Minor quibbles are that the room TV didn’t have BBC24 or CCN although they were on the TV guide card and the fridge didn’t work. However the aircon was extremely effective when needed.The hotel has a nice outside seating area.
We didn’t eat at the hotel preferring to sample a variety of restaurants in Rapallo and Santa Margharita. A couple from the USA we met there had a similar positive view of the Miramare and it was good value for money which was welcomed in this high cost area!!!!
Finally, we are returning to the Miramare next month (June “11). If you are tempted to try this hotel then Google it for the site and email address to book direct. Monica is an english speaking member of the hotel team and a very helpful lady.
