Hotel Miramare

Managed by the same Swiss family since its beginnings in 1959, Hotel Miramare is well known in Varigotti. From the road, the hotel is marked by a tall palm tree and motel-like signage. Using terracotta color tones accented by weathered wood, sea shells, nautical ropes, and nets, the hotel creates a soothing Mediterranean vibe with its lush gardens. The grounds have stone pathways and a large red-bricked patio full of wicker furniture with white cushions and umbrellas overlooking the beach. A casual beach restaurant rests next to the patio as well.

Inside, the lobby presents a peach and white color scheme with continued nautical motifs. Hallways have industrial carpet, burnt sienna ceilings, textured white walls, and marble stairs. With the intention of maintaining the integrity of the original architecture, the only big changes the owners have made to the property over the years are to the rooms.

The Miramare has its own private beach, giving guests an invaluable perk during the area's heavy peak seasons. It's also a convenient midway location between Sanremo to the south and Genoa to the north, giving guests the opportunity to explore the rest of the coast. For those who don’t mind longer journeys, it’s about a two-hour drive to the beautiful beaches of La Spezia and Levanto. The Miramare’s central location in town is also ideal for those who enjoy strolling around their immediate area and sussing out different shops, restaurants, and activities.

In an effort to preserve the historical ambiance of the hotel and to reduce environmental stress, the owners have decided to forgo the use of air-conditioning and TVs in all 18 rooms. But don't fret: While this may seem archaic, room fans and sea breeze provide at least some relief during hot summers. The owners have also spliced the rooms, reducing their size in order to include a small en-suite bathroom. (In previous years, all units shared one bathroom per floor.) Bathrooms were renovated and painted blue after our visit, and all include a walk-in shower.

The simple rooms are outfitted in peach with late-‘60s/early-‘70s style motel furniture and present decorative tile floors and sea-themed bedspreads. Photos of the hotel adorn bedroom walls while tiled floors and walls comprise the basic bathrooms. Small balconies are off each room with waist-high wooden lattice guard rails. Higher category units have a terrace with enough room for a small table and chairs.

By far the most impressive feature of the hotel is its private beachfront location, giving guests access to an exclusive patch of sand just in the back of the property. The beach area is rocky, but the Miramare provides basic canvas sun chairs and umbrellas for lounging. Visitors can also enjoy beachside or patio drinks from the hotel bar located within the lunch-only restaurant. A free sea-facing breakfast is also served on the patio.

While there are no TVs in the rooms, there is a television provided in the hotel lobby for guest use, as well as a sitting area with a self-serve drink station. Wi-Fi is free. Unreserved parking is limited and available for a fee, but keep in mind that during busy summer months it can be extremely difficult to find a space. Transfers to bus and railway stops are also available, and those traveling with small pets will be accommodated.