Villa Paggi Country House

This is a brand new B&B in the hills behind Chiavari on the Ligurian Riviera about 30 min by car/train east of Genoa. It is an old farm that has been beautifully restored by its new owners using environmentally sustainable principles. There are about 8 rooms, each with own ensuite, satellite TV, internet, fridge and safe. Beautifully furnished, relaxed and warm and using quality fittings and furnishings. There is a fabulous deck in the sun overlooking the coast in the distance and a reading room which is quiet and peaceful. Car parking is provided and there is disabled access too. The buffet breakfast is absolutely amazing. Home cooked food, beautiful cakes and pastries, fresh fruit, eggs, juice and coffee, bread, meats and cheese...too much to choose from and all so fresh. The owners Alessandra and her husband Giancarlo are very warm and welcoming. Alessandra speaks fluent English and while her husbands english is not so strong he is also very keen to communicate and ensure you have an enjoyable time and every need you have is met. They are a lovely couple and have restored the property to its prime. They are huge "foodies" and have a great list of local recommendations. We ate out at different places they suggested each night for the 4 nights there and had some fantastic local food in Chiavari and Sestri Levante. There is also a local food market in Chiavari that we really enjoyed. The Cinque Terre is an easy 30 min train ride fom Chiavari or Lavanga (car parking at the stations is easy) and Portofino and Santa Marguerita are about 15 min west towards Genoa by train or car. Alessandra has heaps of local knowledge and information and is eager to help you plan your days and ensure you see all of the key things in the area. The beaches are lovely, the water in the Meditteranean clean and inviting. Its a great spot to rest with lots to do and great food. The Villa Paggi is a bargain at about 100 euro per night roughly (seasonal variations apply) including car parking and breakfast. I would say it is best if you have a car to stay there as its not near public transport and its a long windy road to climb the mountain to the villa (hence the great views) but with a car its great as everything is very close by and getting around the coast by car is easy and parking not a problem in car parks along beach, railway stations etc, generally paid but not expensive. This was one of our key highlights on our most recent European trip.