Villa Rosmunda

Villa Rosmunda is a hidden gem in Cinque Terre. Situated on a hill overlooking the sublime Gulf of Poets, the villa is also home to a luxurious, botanical garden. The property features an ancient and historical tower, which was built in the 13th century as a first line of defense against attacks from the dreaded Saracen pirates. Over the centuries, the tower has undergone many facelifts and is now repurposed into a comfortable living area. An interesting claim to fame involves one of its former tenants during the Belle Epoque. It was here that the famous opera writer Sam Benelli chose to compose his most well-known masterpieces; "La Cena delle Beffe", and "Rosmunda". The current owners have directed their efforts to their love of all things botanical. Over the years they have repopulated rare plants originating from all over the globe, resulting in one of the most beautiful and unique botanical gardens in Cinque Terre. Highlights include a spectacular bloom of multicolor azaleas and hydrangeas, a grove of rare palm trees, and a camphor tree over 50 years old. In addition to the gardens, guests can enjoy the elegant infinity pool with chairs and sunbeds, an exercise room under the pool deck (with guest bathroom), a lovely terrace with table and chairs, and a quiet, secluded spot furnished with a hammock and offering a spectacular sea view.

The ground floor of Villa Rosmunda features an entry foyer, an elegant living area, a grand formal dining room (with seating for 10), a well-equipped kitchen (fridge/freezer, stove, oven, dishwasher, microwave, coffee maker), a games/billiards room, two double bedrooms, and a shared bathroom with shower. Both bedrooms have direct access out to the garden.

The first floor (via a lovely, art deco staircase) consists of a library, a bright, "garden" sitting room, a double bedroom, two bathrooms (one with bathtub and the other a shower), the laundry room, and an outdoor terrace.

The tower consists of three floors and is reached via a spiral staircase from the first floor of the main villa. On the first floor of the tower is a small bedroom* with a double bed (might not be suitable for two guests). The next floor up is a small, boat-style bathroom (that is, no curtain or enclosure) with a shower. The top floor hosts another small bedroom.

*Please note, the bedrooms are configured within the dimensions of a middle-age tower and are not comparable to the modern bedrooms downstairs. It's somewhat like living in a lighthouse, replete with breathtaking sea views.

Included in the rental price: Daily maid service (3 hours in the morning), gardener

Available upon request at additional cost: Chef service

The housecleaner and gardener live in a separate house within the grounds.

Lerici and San Terenzo are amongst the most populated villages in the Poet's Gulf. Their pink and yellow homes, typical of the Ligurian region, climb the hillside above the deep blue sea. Some of the most famous poets such as Shelly and Lawrence chose these two towns as their summer retreat. In fact, the 16th century castle above the harbor in Lerici is said to have inspired Shelly's wife, Mary Wollstonecraft, to write Frankenstein. Watch the boats come and go from the yacht harbor, dine at one of the many seaside cafes, and linger long enough to enjoy the brilliant sunset.