Villa Rosmarino

"Tucked away on the less-trafficked slopes of Mount Portofino, above the picturesque waterfront town of Camogli and scenic Riviera di Levante, Villa Rosmarino is that Italian friend’s vacation house you’ve been dreaming of. Owners Mario Pietraccetta and Fulvio Zendrini left Milanese corporate life to transform this dilapidated turn-of-the-century palazzo into a midcentury-style oasis with touches of Italian modernism, then moved in permanently, inviting others to experience their personal brand of la dolce vita. The library is outfitted with stylish armchairs, warm wood ceiling beams, and a collection of art and travel books that spans the walls, andthe living room’s well-stocked honesty bar is the backdrop for friendly nightcaps. Rooms aren’t numbered, and the sprawling gardens are easy to get lost in. Mario and Fulvio are likely to chat guests up while lounging by the pool or sipping espresso on the balcony, offering their insider knowledge about the area and arranging one-of-a-kind excursions, from visits to secluded beach clubs to rides in their wooden motorboat."

"Tucked away on the less-trafficked slopes of Mount Portofino, above the picturesque waterfront town of Camogli and scenic Riviera di Levante, Villa Rosmarino is that Italian friend’s vacation house you’ve been dreaming of. Owners Mario Pietraccetta and Fulvio Zendrini left Milanese corporate life to transform this dilapidated turn-of-the-century palazzo into a midcentury-style oasis with touches of Italian modernism, then moved in permanently, inviting others to experience their personal brand of la dolce vita. The library is outfitted with stylish armchairs, warm wood ceiling beams, and a collection of art and travel books that spans the walls, andthe living room’s well-stocked honesty bar is the backdrop for friendly nightcaps. Rooms aren’t numbered, and the sprawling gardens are easy to get lost in. Mario and Fulvio are likely to chat guests up while lounging by the pool or sipping espresso on the balcony, offering their insider knowledge about the area and arranging one-of-a-kind excursions, from visits to secluded beach clubs to rides in their wooden motorboat."

Villa Rosmarino, Camogli, Liguria, Italy - Explore & Book

"Camogli is a relatively hidden gem of the Italian Riviera, a breathtaking cliffside of yellow and ochre trompe-l'oeil houses and clear blue waters around the peninsula from legendary Portofino, where the Armani and Versace villas sit.Up above, Villa Rosmarino, built in 1907, is an authentic Genoese palazzo with original mosaic flooring. The pool is set in a lovely garden of magnolia, lemon, tangerine and grapefruit trees, with restful scents of lavender and rosemary. It's been given a thoroughly modern makeover by owner Mario, an ex-advertising exec who gave up Milan for this tranquil hideaway; in its stark simplicity, the main decoration is the collection of contemporary art that came with Mario, including a spectacular cache of Italian vases. A wonderfully stylish base from which to explore the coast - beautiful walks, romantic boat rides, sunset aperitivi - and the absorbing city of Genoa, with its labyrinth of streets and moody bars. The area's cuisine is the icing on the cake. Highs Location - the only hotel of its kind in this enchanting fishing village, a (steepish) 10-15 minute walk downhillPrivate collection of paintings, photographs, interesting furniture, art and design booksExceptional service: Mario and his team are wonderfully knowledgeable about the area and will work hard to ensure your stay is memorableSome rather special restaurants a short drive away and the hotel breakfast is very good (table service and beautifully presented) No need for a car - the coastal trains are brilliant Lows No in-house dining - just breakfast and, during high season, poolside light lunches No in-room TV, but you won't miss it It's subjective, but some may find the interiors slightly clinical or the artwork somewhat risqué (although we loved it) The nearest beach (a 10-minute walk downhill) is pebbly - but sunloungers are available No twin beds" - Negar Esfandiary