Little Gem No. 085 | *The Room in the Tower

Step into a sanctuary of history and life in the heart of Portovenere’s ancient village with The House in the Tower. Set within the oldest tower of this UNESCO-listed seaside gem, this beautiful one-bedroom apartment offers a rare chance to live inside walls dating back to 1161, lovingly restored with deep respect for the tower’s original bomes and renovated with ancient building techniques, the apartment preserves its historic character while offering modern comfort. 

Vintage doors and windows frame the kitchen, creating a charming atmosphere, while the living room invites you to relax on comfortable sofas filled with natural light. Frescoes of wild herbs by local artist Elena Carozzi add a unique touch. The bedroom/study overlook the lively village square — an inspiring spot for digital nomads and those who enjoys watching daily life unfold.

Owned by Francesca, Roberto and their two daughters, who fell in love with Portovenere’s timeless beauty, the apartment is a doorway to a place where sea meets mountain, and daily life moves to the rhythm of Liguria’s rich traditions. Their nearby farm, Terre di Portovenere, stretches over five hectares of olive groves, vegetable gardens, and honeybee hives, welcoming guests to immerse themselves fully in nature’s gifts and the slow pace of this magical land.

What we love

– Living history: ancient limestone walls and brick vaults preserved in all their glory
– Portovenere’s unique location, where sea meets mountain
– The lively village square just outside, vibrant in summer, peaceful in the off-season
– A perfect blend of authentic living with modern comforts
– Access to Terre di Portovenere farm for fresh olive oil, honey, and a true taste of Liguria

Good to know

– One-bedroom apartment with a loft
– Comfortable for couples (with one child) and solo travellers
– Digital nomad friendly with inspiring workspaces and village views
– Close to beaches, hiking trails, and the spectacular Gulf of La Spezia

Sleeps: 3
Bedroom/Study: 1 single bed  + loft space with double bed 
Bathrooms: 1
Outdoor space: No private terrace, but stunning village views from windows
Perfect for: Couples, creatives, digital nomads, culture lovers

Guided Excursions

If you are looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in the beautiful Portovenere area, you cannot miss their guided excursions! From trekking on Palmaria Island to climbing the cliffs overlooking the sea and customised excursions.
• Bonatti trail • Sunset at Campiglia • Palmaria Island trekking • Customised excursions • Climbing test with an Alpine guide & Hiking guide Silvia Canovi

Sailing with Aurora | A Journey Across Time

The story of Aurora, the family's century-old sailboat, is one of adventure, loss, and revival. Built over 100 years ago by master craftsmen using the finest materials of the time, she was designed with a singular dream: to escape the grey chill of Northern Europe and sail south to the warm, sunlit shores of Portovenere.

After a long journey, Aurora reached her destination — only to face one final storm. It proved too strong. The boat sank to the bottom of the Ligurian Sea, where she remained hidden for decades.

Years later, an Italian entrepreneur, captivated by the legend of Aurora, set out to find and recover her. With patience, dedication, and a love for the sea, he restored the vessel to her former glory — a mission of passion that became his legacy. When he fell ill, he made a decision: Aurora could not simply be sold. She needed a guardian. Someone who understood her history and spirit.

That someone was Roberto. Now moored in one of Liguria’s most beautiful ports, Aurora once again sails the waters she was built for — not as a museum piece, but as a living vessel for new stories.

Today, friends and guests are invited aboard Aurora to explore the shimmering coastline of the Golfo dei Poeti — where sea cliffs plunge into turquoise waters and secret coves await around every bend. Cruises can be arranged for a half or full day and include lunch or aperitivo on board, featuring regional specialties and fresh local ingredients.

Whether it's a midday sail with a plate of fresh pasta or an evening cruise as the sun sets behind the islands, Aurora offers a rare and unforgettable way to experience the beauty of the Ligurian sea.

Sailing Options
– Half-day or full-day private sailings
– From €400 for 4 guests
– Custom itineraries available upon request

Portovenere & Terre di Portovenere

Portovenere is a cliffside jewel perched between sea and sky. Its colourful houses, narrow alleys, and ancient castle create a postcard-perfect backdrop for an unforgettable stay. The village’s deep history echoes in every stone, from the church of San Pietro overlooking the bay to the surrounding islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto.

Just a short climb up the hills, Terre di Portovenere welcomes guests into a world of olive groves, vegetable gardens, and buzzing bees. Here, Francesca and her family share a lifestyle devoted to nature’s rhythms — producing cold-pressed olive oil, fresh eggs, and honey, inviting visitors to reconnect with the land, its flavours, and its peace.

Portovenere’s unique location at the edge of Liguria — where mountains meet the sea and two national parks converge — offers endless opportunities to explore ancient hiking trails connecting to the Cinque Terre, relax at local beach clubs, swim in crystal-clear waters, and take ferries to nearby coastal towns and the charming islands just off Portovenere’s shore.

Price indication
 

From €150 per night (seasonal rates apply)