Words by Louise Pyne
When you think of Italian tourist hot spots, Rome, Milan and Venice most probably spring to mind, but those in the know escape to the ancient port town of Genoa for an intense culture fix. The birthplace of pesto pasta sauce and famously doughy focaccia bread, Genoa is a treasure trove of historical sights that are simply crying out to be explored.
Hotel
After a day trawling the medieval old town, retreating to the exquisite Capitolo Riviera hotel is the perfect end to a busy day. Offering more than simply standard accommodation, the property is an authentic and unforgettable nature haven for guests.
Located in the picturesque Genoa Nervi area, just a hop, skip and a jump from the city centre and a stone’s throw from the iconic Ligurian Riviera, the hotel is surrounded by beautiful gardens whilst being close to the coastline, which gives it an incredibly relaxed vibe that makes you feel at one with your surroundings.
Room
The charming hotel boasts 37 rooms, including three plush suites, two junior suites and three signature rooms which are characterised by soft lighting and stylish furnishings brought to life with neutral brown, beige and green tones as a nod to the abundant nature found on the hotel’s doorstep.
The hotel also offers 24 premium rooms, each with a private terrace and five deluxe rooms. With a keen attention to detail, rooms are kitted out with walk-in showers, large bathtubs and panoramic views.
Food and drink
For a pre-dinner aperitif, the Liquido Bar serves up more than just a standard Aperol Spritz. Think fine wines, signature cocktails and zingy mocktails plus an extensive list of spirits and liquors.
Then head over to the Botanico restaurant, which is one of the stand out amenities of Capitolo Riviera for its prized open kitchen where you can watch chefs whipping up a culinary storm. Dishing up Mediterranean cuisine curated with high quality gastronomic ingredients that offer maximum flavour, the Ligurian-inspired menu will take you on a culinary journey through the colourful Italian region.
The exceptionally friendly service exudes Italian hospitality, and staff are on hand to impart their knowledge on everything from on point wine recommendations to must-try seasonal ingredients. Star dishes include handmade trofie pasta drenched in pesto sauce, potato and green beans, herby nettle risotto and the delectable black squid ink.
In the morning, don’t miss the buffet breakfast which offers an incredible mix of continental and hot fare to fill you up for the day ahead. The pastries galore and freshly baked cakes are sure to tantalise tastebuds.
Spa and wellness
No trip to Capitolo Riviera would be complete without a visit to the One Wellness Spa. Equipped with all the features you’d expect from a luxurious hotel and more, the hydro massage swimming pool is seamlessly integrated between the garden and spa interior so you can comfortably take a dip all year round.
There’s also a Technogym equipped fitness centre, relaxing sauna, Turkish bath and chill out area where you can kick back and relax worry-free. And let’s not forget the extensive list of spa treatments. Using top of the range Comfort Zone products, the spa menu features everything from relaxing full body massages to detoxifying facials to help you feel pampered from head to toe.
In a nutshell
A luxurious haven immersed in the stunning Ligurian coastline.
Factbox
Prices for a standard double room start from 300€.
Address: Viale delle Palme, 16A, 16167, Genoa GE, Italy
Phone: 39 010 7001616
Website: capitoloriviera.com
Photography courtesy of Capitolo Riviera.
