When searching for the pinnacle of luxury in Cinque Terre hotels, Hotel Porto Roca in Monterosso al Mare stands out as one of the best options. With its breathtaking sea views and prime location near iconic hiking trails, this cliffside hotel offers an indulgent stay that perfectly blends luxury with the natural beauty of the Ligurian coastline. My family of six recently stayed at this renowned property, and while the experience had its highs and lows, it remains a top contender for those seeking a luxurious retreat in Cinque Terre. Here’s an honest review of our stay, including details on the rooms, service, and amenities that you can expect from this celebrated luxury hotel.
Location and Views: The Best in Cinque Terre
When it comes to Cinque Terre hotels offering luxury, Hotel Porto Roca’s location is second to none. Situated high on a cliff above Monterosso’s old town beach, the panoramic views of the Ligurian Sea are absolutely stunning.
From our rooms and the pool area, it felt as if we were suspended above the sea—an unparalleled experience that defines this hotel as one of the most luxurious in the region.
The hotel is also located just steps from the start of the Vernazza hiking trail, making it ideal for travelers who want to explore the scenic beauty of Cinque Terre on foot.
While the steep quarter-mile hill leading up to the hotel may be daunting for some—especially families with young children or those with mobility concerns—the hotel’s free shuttle service proved invaluable for us.
The hill itself, though challenging, adds to the secluded and exclusive feel of the hotel, offering a peaceful retreat from the busy town below.
Rooms: Dated but Redeemed by the Views
While Hotel Porto Roca is renowned as one of the best Cinque Terre luxury hotels, the rooms themselves fall short of what we expected in terms of opulence. We booked two adjacent rooms for our family, as larger suites were unavailable.
The traditional furnishings felt dated, and the bathrooms were quite small, especially considering the hotel’s premium price point. The cramped shower was a notable downside, making it difficult to unwind after a day of hiking and exploring.
However, what the rooms lacked in modernity, they made up for in views. Waking up to the sight of the sun rising over the sea was an unforgettable experience and the primary reason why this hotel continues to attract luxury-seeking travelers. Despite the room’s decor, the views alone make Hotel Porto Roca one of the top luxury hotels in Cinque Terre.
A Luxury Hotel, But Not the Most Kid-Friendly
While Hotel Porto Roca is undeniably luxurious, families with young children may find its quiet and refined atmosphere a bit stifling. Traveling with four children aged 7-13, we found that the serene environment, designed more for couples and adults, wasn’t always the best fit for our energetic family. The pool, while one of the hotel’s standout features, is more suited for relaxation than active play, and the staff kindly reminded our children to keep their voices down.
Though we appreciated the tranquil atmosphere, families seeking a more relaxed environment might find Hotel Porto Roca too formal.
If you’re traveling with young kids and prefer more space, a VRBO or condo rental may offer a more family-friendly alternative—though you’ll miss out on the luxury amenities like the cliffside pool and those stunning sea views.
Breakfast with a View: A Highlight of the Stay
One of the most delightful parts of our stay was the breakfast buffet served on the terrace.
The variety of fresh pastries, cheeses, meats, and fruits, along with eggs cooked to order, made for a delicious start to our day.
But it was the breathtaking views of the sea from the terrace that truly made breakfast special, encapsulating the luxurious experience this hotel is known for.
The Infinity Pool: Luxury Redefined
If you’re looking for luxury amenities in Cinque Terre, look no further than Hotel Porto Roca’s infinity pool. Perched on the cliffside with panoramic views of the sea, this pool offers a serene and indulgent experience unlike any other. We spent hours relaxing by the pool, and it became one of the favorite parts of our stay. The infinity design creates the illusion of floating above the ocean, making it an Instagram-worthy highlight for any luxury traveler.
While the pool itself was flawless, the service around the pool left a bit to be desired. We encountered some aloofness when requesting drinks or extra towels, which felt out of place for a hotel of this caliber. That said, the pool’s setting is so magical that it largely overshadowed these minor service issues.
Proximity to Vernazza Hiking Trail: Perfect for Active Travelers
One of the best features of Hotel Porto Roca is its proximity to the Vernazza hiking trail.
For those who love hiking, this is a significant perk, as the trailhead is just minutes from the hotel. We appreciated the convenience of being able to start our hike right after breakfast without having to navigate the bustling streets of Monterosso. If luxury and access to nature are your priorities, this is the hotel for you.
Service: A Mixed Bag
The service at Hotel Porto Roca was generally good, but not without its flaws. The front desk staff was exceptionally helpful, especially when we needed assistance with lost luggage, but the restaurant and pool staff were a bit less accommodating, sometimes giving off an air of formality that felt slightly out of place. For a hotel that positions itself as a luxury retreat, we expected more warmth and attentiveness from the staff.
Exclusive Beach Access and Cliff Diving Fun
One of the hidden perks of staying at Hotel Porto Roca is the complimentary access to the beach area, complete with iconic orange and green umbrellas.
This is a significant bonus, as public beach access in Monterosso typically costs over $80 for a family. With this free access, you can enjoy the sandy shores without the extra expense, making it a fantastic value for families.
From the beach, you’ll also have front-row seats to an exciting local activity—cliff diving! The cliffs, located just below the hotel, offer thrilling jumps from heights of 15 to 40 feet.
Whether you choose to join in or simply watch the divers from the comfort of your sunbed, it’s a thrilling experience and adds a bit of adventure to your luxurious stay.
Final Thoughts: A Top Luxury Hotel in Cinque Terre, but Know What to Expect
Hotel Porto Roca remains one of the best Cinque Terre hotels for those seeking luxury, especially for couples or adults looking for a serene getaway. The stunning location, infinity pool, and sea views are unmatched, making it a top choice for travelers wanting to experience the luxurious side of Cinque Terre. However, families with younger children might want to consider alternatives that offer more space and a kid-friendly atmosphere.
If luxury, exclusivity, and unbeatable views are what you’re after, Hotel Porto Roca in Monterosso al Mare is worth the splurge.
If not, Hotel Pasquale came in as a second choice!
