Apartment

Next to Portofino, fantastic location

Photo gallery for Next to Portofino, fantastic location

Niasca Villa "pieds dans l'eau"
Portofino harbour from Castello Brown 1,5 km far from the villa
The parking in front of the villa
The entrance
Exterior detail

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 81506.9 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Kitchen
  • Pet-friendly
  • Parking available
  • Sea view

Explore the area

Map
Genova, Italy
  • Paraggi Beach
    ‪4 min walk‬
  • Portofino Marina
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Castello Brown
    ‪1 min drive‬
  • Genoa (GOA-Cristoforo Colombo)
    ‪59 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Four beds Bedroom

+1
2 Single Beds, 1 Crib and 2 Child Beds

Master bedroom

1 Double Bed

Twin Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

3 bathrooms

Master Bathroom

Bidet · Toilet · Shower only

Second Bathroom

Bathtub or shower · Bidet · Toilet

Third Bathroom

Bidet · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Kitchen
Balcony
Dining area

About this property

Next to Portofino, fantastic location

The living room's balcony overlooks at the tiny beach; the property is really “pied dans l’eau"

The house is an example of the late XIX century holiday villa of the Italian Riviera, built above its boathouse, has always starting point for beautiful canoe trips.
It is ideal for relaxed and refined holidays.
The position is very special between the green wooded hills and the sea, the flat overlooks a small public beach, that can be reached by a short path. It's next to the beautiful Paraggi bay, with its sand beach, amazing green transparent water, tiny village and exclusive villas.
A mild weather all year round, allows to enjoy walks along the sea and on the hills, or to shop in fashionable Portofino and Santa Margherita boutiques to lounge in a restaurant terrace.

From the boathouse below the flat you could appreciate the beauty of Portofino Marine Park in the best possible way: paddling, rowing, with 'outdoorportofino' .
By a short walk (or by bus) you will reach Portofino with fashionable shops, very nice and romantic outdoor cafés and restaurants.

It is included in the natural park of Portofino that features beautiful walks in different environments due to the special biodiversity of flora and fauna, with stunning views on the sea and steep cliffs.
If you like trekking, this is an amazing area with stunning landscapes: we highly recommend the classic trip to Portofino - San Fruttuoso Abbey, which leaves directly from the house or comfortably by ferry from Portofino.

Property manager

Giancarla Serra

Languages

English, Italian
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Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Sea view
Parking available

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House Rules

Check in after 2:30 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs and cats less than 10 kg per pet (limit one pet total)
There is a fee of 50€ for any (well-behaved) pet
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Only outside on the balcony
Is appreciated if you and your children rinse feet in the bucket out of the door to not bring sand in the apartment. Check out is 9,30 A.M.
The parking is for only one normal car, not a van.
It'is very appreciated if you park in the central place within the yellow lines, in order to let the neighbors get in and park comfortably

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts cash
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a first aid kit
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
Property Registration Number IT010044C2JOOH9HQJ

We should mention

All guests, including children, must be present at check-in and show their government-issued photo ID card or passport
Cash transactions at this property cannot exceed EUR 5000, due to national regulations; for further details, please contact the property using the information in the booking confirmation
A car is not required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Portofino

Located in Portofino, this apartment is near theme parks and on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Paraggi Beach and Spiaggia dell' Olivetta, while Museo Attilio & Cleofe Gaffoglio and Musei di Nervi - Galleria d'Arte Moderna GAM are cultural highlights. Scoglio dei Mille and Sestri Levante Bowling are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with scuba diving and snorkelling nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with ecotours and hiking.
Map
Genova, Italy

What's nearby

  • Paraggi Beach - 4 min walk - 0.4 km
  • Portofino Marina - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Church of St. Martin - 14 min walk - 1.2 km
  • Abbazia di San Girolamo al Monte di Portofino - Complesso Monumentale La Cervara - 19 min walk - 1.7 km
  • Castello Brown - 1 min drive - 1.0 km

Getting around

  • Santa Margherita Ligure Portofino Station - 17 min drive
  • Genoa (GOA-Cristoforo Colombo) - 59 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪O Magazin - ‬13 min walk
  • ‪Caffe Mariuccia - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Ristorante Delfino - ‬14 min walk
  • ‪Ristorante Strainer - ‬18 min walk
  • ‪Panificio Canale - ‬16 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Next to Portofino, fantastic location pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 10 kg per pet.

What time is check-in at Next to Portofino, fantastic location?

Check-in begins at 2:30 PM.

What time is check-out at Next to Portofino, fantastic location?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Next to Portofino, fantastic location located?

Situated on the waterfront, this apartment building is within a 15-minute walk of Paraggi Beach, Portofino Marina and Church of St. Martin. Abbey of Cervara and Church of San Giorgio are also within 1 mile (2 km).

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 63 out of 76 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 10 out of 76 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 76 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 76 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 76 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Elif S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming

Great location, a boathouse with a great view
Stayed 13 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Anastasia W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Birthday/new year with friends

Thank you so much. We had an awesome time
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2022

8/10 Good

Neal W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Super Niasca

A great base in one of the Mediterranean’s prettiest areas.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Paradise

Such a fantastic place. Felt relaxed from the moment we arrived. Giancarlo was super helpful and the apartments was beyond our expectations- amazing !!
Stayed 7 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Heidi S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A gem on the Ligurian coast .. hiking .. beach .. sea

This is a very special and quirky property located on the floor above the boathouse. Very spacious with large bedrooms and bathrooms a beautiful view .. if you like to hike in the mountains there are lots of trails straight from the house .. with a parking space you can explore the area by car or there is a bus stop right outside to get to Portofino for a night of glamour or a low key night out in Santa Margherita.. Right on the beach you can enjoy the day in the beautiful sea .. or take a sea kayak .. Giancarla and her sister were lovely .. very helpful - on what was on in the area .. thank you for a wonderful stay .. we hope to come back ..
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Helen B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Idyllic, charming holiday home

This idyllically located holiday home offered something for everyone in our party. The sunbathers, the sun-shy, the active and the restful. We had a private view on to one of the loveliest coves on the Ligurian coast. Within easy walking distance of Portofino and Santa Margheurita de Ligure, where there are lots of bars and restaurants serving great (if pricey) food and drinks. Great walks and hikes, with water sports on offer literally 'downstairs'. The house offers flexible accommodation and reminded us of times gone by. Our host was lovely and we hope to go back one day.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Jane D.

Fabulous huge living room with balcony overlooking own beach.

The house is well equipped and clean with generous rooms the centre piece being a huge living room combining kitchen, dining area and lounge with a balcony overlooking the beach and a lovely view over the harbour. Portofino and another small beach resort are a short 10-15 minute walk away.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2018

10/10 Excellent

Marco V.

Super

For sure we will come back
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2018

10/10 Excellent

Mary Lynn L.

Beautiful & Enchanting

This was our second stay in this beautiful home. You will find nothing like it anywhere. The home, spacious and beautiful, holds a sense of history and yet lives very modern. They have struck the perfect combination. Ample beautiful space and light, and unlike any property you can find, its on the beach! Giancarla is an amazing host and listed so many great things to do and helped us to live more like locals than tourists. She helped us twice in different situations with lost luggage and getting to stunning restaurant on the mountain. She is a very kind, generous and attentive. Very wonderful and we will come again!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2018
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Tom B.

Perfection!!!!

It's hard to capture how stunning this place is in a photo, and upon arrival we were utterly blown away. It's literally everything we hoped it would be and so much more. Perfect for kids too, everything within walking distance. You have to check out U-Pin restaurant, a bit of a walk, but well worth it. We will be coming back!
Stayed 9 nights in Sep 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Mandy H.

Amazing property

We had a great stay at Giancarla's extraordinary house. Fabulous position, great history to the place and in such a unique location. The house itself is very spacious, all well set up, although there is no kettle which was very unusual, I think one should be supplied. My only other comment would be that for the price we paid there should have been a mid stay clean!! We really enjoyed our stay, thank you.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Sophia A.

Magical holiday retreat

We arrived at Niasca late afternoon and couldn't believe how beautiful the house and location were. I had been a little concerned about the heat having read one review that suggested the house was humid and would be too hot in the summer, but this was absolutely not the case and despite a wonderful 30 degrees on the beach the house was always cool and comfortable. We didn't need to use the a/c units at all as there was a pleasant breeze through the open windows. I was also a bit worried about being under the road but again there was no need, you wouldn't know it apart from the occasional friendly toot of the bus horn that we really liked. The bus was regular, started early and ran late. It's worth getting a stack of the cheap bus tickets from the tabacchi, and make sure you don't get charged for going the whole way to Portofino! The owner is delightful and helpful and even picked us up at the station and took us to the house via the supermarket, which was much appreciated. The house was well equipped and tranquil and it was impossible not to feel relaxed there. The views and light were stunning and we enjoyed the beach, the balcony and the garden as well as sitting at the fantastic metal table eating meals or relaxing on the sofas reading and chatting. It was a short walk to Portofino where we laughed at the super yachts and felt very superior with our vastly more tasteful home to return to. Make sure you get the ferry to the abbey - it is stunning. And hire a kayak! The water sports staff are helpful and friendly - we had a kayak for the day and took turns to go up and down the coast - well worth it. Thankyou Giancarla for sharing your wonderful home with us, we have all come back with great memories and look forward to returning as soon as we can. Can't think of any way in which it could be better! Best wishes, Sarah
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Martyn D.

Practically perfect in every way

Wow! Wow! Wow! A truly unique experience. Thank you Giancarla for the opportunity to stay in this wonderful property which has been in your family for so many years. Just 3 minutes by car or 12 minutes walk from Portofino, this was truly an unforgettable holiday for our family of 7 (3 teenagers, 2 elderly grandparents and us). Location Location Location, this house is clean, secure, spacious and with a view from the balcony to die for. The property is entered on foot from the coast road, where you have 1 car parking space. Broad modern steps lead down to the front door of the property which is within the lower level of the main house , with cool natural light from the tree covered valley behind pulling fresh air through the body of the house from the sea facing balcony. There are some steps and differing levels in the bedroom/bathroom area but the teenagers loved the beds on the mezzanine in their room and the steps to the bathroom were no problem for our older guests in theirs. Fluffy towels and clean sheets provided. The beds were comfortable and bedrooms beautifully furnished.The main living room has original wood floors and wall paintings. The simple, clean and functional kitchen is part of the enormous cool living space. We enjoyed all the family being together, preparing food from the local market, others on the sofas reading or sitting at the table playing cards or drawing. The beach is directly in front of the balcony via a short set of steps. The sea is clear, clean, warm and full of fish. No power boats are allowed in the bay (marine park) and we joined many bathers who would swim out into the deeper water to snorkel or simply to get fit ! The Portofino water sports centre is adjacent the property and the staff there were friendly and polite, storing the beach chairs for us. There was never any noise from them and it actually made for entertainment to see the coming and goings of their various customers and craft. Giancarla, the owner, is polite, prompt, friendly and easy to deal with. I can honestly say that even as we watched the super yachts of the rich and famous sail past our window each day, coming and going from Portofino, I would not have swapped places with them for the world. Truly beautiful, truly unique, truly special. Not a hotel but rather the authentic family home by the sea I have always wanted. We have memories that will last for a lifetime - but we might just have to go back to top them up. Thank you Giancarla!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

John J.

Niasca Villa

Wonderful place to spend in the late Spring or early summer. It would be too warm in the villa during the warm months. The humidity within the villa was something that needs to be addressed by using fans to move the air instead of have to open all the windows to get circulation. The dehumidifiers could not keep up with the windows open.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Dave M.

Beautiful home with amazing views

My family absolutely adored this special home. The location is perfect. We loved walking into Portofino on the hiking trail. It's about a 20 minute walk (3 minute drive) into the beautiful little seaside town. The views of the home are stunning. The water is so calming and beautiful to look at. Our boys loved going down to the beach to play by the water. And we rented Kayak's from Luca which was lots of fun. This was a perfect place to stay with our family of 4 (There was plenty of room for more people as well:) We really enjoyed the owners too. They were great to us and went above and beyond by mailing us something we left at the house. Thank you Maria we look forward to experiencing Niasca again soon.

10/10 Excellent

Nicole N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous

This property was better than expected. Absolutely magical. Incredible views and sounds of the ocean and listen to waterfall as at night to fall asleep
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Karl S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very nice place

Beautiful house and location, friendly host.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Shamir S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Niasca

Wonderful stay, beautiful, charming, old house full of character. Giancarla is a lovely host, extremely helpful and made our stay so much better. Wonderful view of the bay, great for long swims. We loved it. The house sits right on a fairly busy, narrow road, beach access is across this road. For those looking for modern, up to date, hotel style amenities, this house is not for you. The house is secluded and not very close to any restaurants or businesses, we saw this as an added bonus. You will need transport to get around.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Karine A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Unique spot

Amazing family vacation at Villa Niasca ( unique spot ).
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Linnae F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Vacation

Perfect location for a family vacation. We enjoyed opening up the big doors to listen to the waves and walking the short distance to Portofino along to trail for gelato. Giancarla was very responsive and made sure we were comfortable in the house.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amelia M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

We had a marvellous stay! Spectacular.

Giancarla was a wonderful host and even helped us arrange a really special birthday at the villa with a local private chef. Cannot rave enough about the natural beauty of the location, nestles amping at the trees of the coastline. We found the buses and walking sufficient for exploring Portofino and other local areas. Highly recommend to any family or a group of friends seeking a fun and secluded getaway on the water. Thanks!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kateri J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing location, views and more

We were traveling as a family with three young adults and two grandparents - and this was a fantastic find! The bus is a bit expensive (5 Euros per person/trip) but if you don’t have a car, well worth it. We had two cars and had to search for parking for the second, but I think we just missed that info. The house is gorgeous and totally unique and we had everything we needed. Lots of hikers to Portofino (and it was the off season!) passing by, but I would take the trails instead of the road if you are sure of foot. Thanks for the travel books and advice!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mindy S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Brilliantly authentic

Stayed over Easter. Fantastic location if you like something near to town yet feels a world away. 15 minute walk to Portofino. 40 minute walk to Santa Margherita. Waterfall in the back. Amazing hikes just behind. So quiet though ride in the road. Beds were very comfortable. Great host! We hope to be back.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Deborah B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A magical place to stay!

We all loved staying at Niasca. The view from our balcony; proximity to Portofino; walking trails; ease of accessing the bus and train. All made for a magical nine nights. Not to be missed: A meal at the former monastery nearby Camogli (as beautiful as Cinque Terre, and much less crowded) Old Town Genoa A wine tasting at Caduferra Dining in Portofino and Santa Margherita
Stayed 9 nights in Oct 2023

8/10 Good

Kathleen B.

Liked: Check-in, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful location

The location of this property was outstanding. The views from our balcony were breathtaking. Very close to Portofino.
Stayed 9 nights in Sep 2023

About the host

Hosted by Giancarla Serra

Host profile image
My great-grand-father, from Genoa, built the flat with the boathouse to give to his ten sons the opportunity to grow up healthy and strong, swimming, rowing and hiking in stunning landscapes. In the XIX century, Portofino was a little fisherman village, unknown from the newborn tourism. The only other tourists were two English brothers and their family, living in the two castle in the area: Castello Paraggi, in front of Niasca and castello Brown immediately above Portofino. Nowadays a natural park and the protected bay of Paraggi bring it back to the enchant of those days. Much like my grandfather my mother, my sisters and I spent all the summers growing up in Niasca

Why they chose this property

The site is one of the most beatiful sea side places in the world.

What makes this property unique

You could hear from the living room the rhythmic sound of waves

Languages:

English, Italian