Grand Hotel Villa Balbi
Italy / Sestri Levante

1. Personal Experience
Oh my goodness, staying at the Grand Hotel Villa Balbi was such a delightful experience! The kids had an absolute blast with the fun amenities—they loved the pool and the playground area. I still remember one evening when we all gathered for gelato by the beach, watching the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink. It felt like a postcard moment! Of course, there were a few hiccups; our room wasn’t ready right away, but honestly, it gave us time to explore that charming little town nearby while sipping on some local limoncello.

2. Main Highlights
One of the standout features of this hotel has to be its stunning garden—seriously, it’s like stepping into a secret paradise! Plus, I can’t recommend their breakfast enough; fresh pastries and local cheeses every morning made waking up so much easier. And let’s not forget about the staff—they were incredibly friendly and attentive without being overbearing, which really added to that cozy vibe. If you’re looking for tranquility combined with convenience to explore Sestri Levante, this place nails it!

3. Recommendation ★★★★☆
Overall, I’d say this hotel is perfect for families or couples seeking a relaxing getaway by the sea. The mix of charm and comfort makes it hard not to fall in love with this place! I would definitely go back in a heartbeat—maybe next summer? 🌊✨

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• Ristorante da O Vittorio (Centro Storico): This cozy spot is famous for its Trofie al Pesto, a traditional Ligurian pasta dish that’s just bursting with flavor.
• Trattoria Il Barchino (Riva Trigoso): Here, you must try the Frittura Mista di Pesce, a delightful mix of fried seafood that’s perfectly crispy and oh-so-tasty!
• Ristorante La Cantina (Sestri Levante): Don’t miss their Ravioli di Ricotta e Spinaci, which are homemade and served in a rich butter sauce—so comforting!

• Baia del Silenzio (Sestri Levante): This stunning bay is known for its calm waters and picturesque views. It’s the perfect spot to relax, take a dip, or just soak in the beauty of the colorful buildings lining the shore.
• Castello di Sestri Levante (Sestri Levante): A charming historical castle that offers a glimpse into the area’s past. The views from the top are absolutely breathtaking—definitely worth the hike!
• Chiesa di San Nicolò (Sestri Levante): This beautiful church features impressive architecture and lovely artwork inside. It’s a peaceful place to reflect and admire local craftsmanship.

• Festa della Madonna di Mare (Piazza Matteotti, Sestri Levante): This vibrant festival celebrates the town’s patron saint with a beautiful procession, music, and fireworks lighting up the night sky. It usually takes place in late July.
• Festival Internazionale del Cinema (Teatro Comunale, Sestri Levante): A haven for film lovers! This international cinema festival showcases indie films from around the world and often features discussions with filmmakers. It’s typically held in mid-October.
• Sagra del Pesce (Lungomare Vittorio Veneto, Sestri Levante): A delicious celebration of local seafood! Visitors can enjoy freshly caught fish dishes while soaking up the lively atmosphere filled with music and entertainment. This tasty event usually happens in early May.