We park in Chiesanuova, one of those typical historic hamlets, or frazioni, in the hills above Levanto, at the gateway to the Cinque Terre. The hotel sits above the village, with no parking of its own, but you don’t have to walk: a small cable car carries you up to the old house in a few moments.
The striking stone house dates back to the 16th century. Welcome to La Sosta di Ottone III, the very model of an Italian vacation home. Liguria unplugged.
Hardly anything disturbs the peace up here, except perhaps the church bell, reminding you that time does pass, if slowly. The view is breathtaking: olive trees as far as the eye can see, shimmering greens and, far below, the turquoise Ligurian Sea glistening off the little harbor of Levanto. The name, by the way, comes from the legend that Emperor Otto III stopped here on his way to his coronation in Rome in 996.
The hotel
This little gem has just six rooms, all very cozy and with beautiful views of the countryside. The furnishings are wonderfully authentic, just what you would choose for your own vacation home. Each room is named after a figure from Otto III’s story: the emperor himself; the popes Sylvester II and Gregory; Theophanu, his mother; Adelaide, his grandmother; and Zoe, his betrothed. Designer pieces and antiques coexist in harmony, and the wall colors are inspired by Ligurian tradition.
In the rooms and the restaurant, you will find elegant Chiavari chairs and works by local artists such as Susie Barrow, Rosy Scapparone, Gregorio Giannotta, the sculptor Paola Rando and the photographer Odile Arias. Arts and crafts are very present at La Sosta, which often hosts events devoted to them. One striking example is the curtain in the reception area, a patchwork of fabrics woven on old looms by the De Martino family of Lorsica.
Not only the decor but the whole atmosphere makes La Sosta feel like a private home. That is thanks to the couple who conceived and opened it some 20 years ago, passionate travelers and culture lovers who now guide it from behind the scenes. A small team looks after the guests. Valentina, for one, welcomed us with rare grace and warmth. Born and raised in Levanto, she plans perfect days for her guests, tailored to each one’s wishes, and knows the most authentic places and the most intriguing ways to explore Liguria.
The kitchen
Breakfast and dinner are not just eaten here; they are celebrated. There are plenty of homemade cakes and little delights you will instantly fall for, such as Patrizia Moggia’s honey from Pignone, orange marmalade from the Levanto valley farmers’ cooperative and hand-churned butter from Beppino Ocelli.
Every evening, the chef prepares dishes using only local ingredients, playing with traditional recipes and adding a personal touch, as with croxetti, a local pasta handmade in Varese Ligure. The restaurant is recognized every year by various guides.
Activities
La Sosta also organizes excursions for guests, for example to the beaches and villages of the Cinque Terre (Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore), to Levanto and to Bonassola. Don’t miss a trip to the enchanting island of Palmaria, part of the Porto Venere Regional Natural Park and, like the Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
You can also take a tour of the Cinque Terre Park by e-bike.
Or take a private tour of the terraced vineyards with the winemaker, who will happily pour a selection of his wines.
Or join a cooking class in La Sosta’s kitchen, followed by dinner with the chef, featuring the dishes prepared that afternoon and selected wines.
Prices
Doubles from 240 to 430 euros per night, depending on the season, including breakfast. Open from April to October.
Booking & Contact
La Sosta di Ottone III
Località Chiesanuova 39
Levanto (La Spezia)
Italy
+39 0187 814502
lasosta@lasosta.com
