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15th century castle, between Cinque Terre and Portofino, private pool, sea view

your current months are December, 2024 and January, 2025.
December 2024
January 2025

Photo gallery for 15th century castle, between Cinque Terre and Portofino, private pool, sea view

Exterior
Outdoor pool
Interior
Interior
Aerial view

Reviews

9.8 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire home

5 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 10450 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Gym
    Gym
  • Pool
    Pool
  • Hot tub
    Hot tub
  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Washer
    Washer
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grill

Explore the area

Map
Leivi, Liguria
  • Parco Botanico Villa Rocca
    7 min drive
  • Colonia Fara
    10 min drive
  • Chiavari Beach
    19 min drive
  • Genoa (GOA-Cristoforo Colombo)
    49 min drive

Room options

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The price is AU$3,703
for 1 night
includes taxes & fees
6 Dec - 7 Dec
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About the area

Leivi

Located in Leivi, this villa is by the sea, within a 10-minute drive of Parco Botanico Villa Rocca and Pastificio Prato. .This villa is 4.7 mi (7.5 km) from Borgo Basilica dei Fieschi and 4.8 mi (7.8 km) from Porto di Lavagna.
View more Villas in LeiviOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Parco Botanico Villa Rocca - 7 min drive - 6.0 km
  • Colonia Fara - 10 min drive - 8.5 km
  • Chiavari Beach - 19 min drive - 8.4 km
  • Rapallo Castle - 20 min drive - 21.4 km
  • Lavagna Beach - 20 min drive - 8.5 km

Getting around

  • Lavagna Station - 10 min drive
  • Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA) - 49 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Ristorante Dragut - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Ostaia Cà da gurpe al mare - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Ristorante Pizzeria Blanche - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Botafogo - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Ristorante Pepen - ‬16 min walk

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

15th century castle, between Cinque Terre and Portofino, private pool, sea view

The property offers a total of 10 sleeps in 5 double rooms (PLEASE NOTE the 5th room is only available for reservations for more than 8 guests, or on request for an extra). The property is not shared with other people, so we can say that it is at your sole use. All the bedrooms are equipped with air conditioning to allow a pleasant rest also in case of very hot weather, while the common areas do not have air conditioning available.

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PLEASE READ THIS CAREFULLY BEFORE BOOKING: the property is an ancient building, dating back to the 13th century. The interior is very well kept and as you can see from the photos and you can read from several reviews (we have a 5 stars average!), it is clean and comfortable, the air conditioning is new and the kitchen is antique style, but modern. Nevertheless, all the furnitures are antiques, such as the beds, the sofa etc. If you are not that kind of person who likes such an historical and antique atmosphere, please do not book this property. We have great respect for everybody's personal taste, but we had guests who were disappointed because they were expecting modern space and atmosphere like the ones they could find in a 5 stars Hotel. We are not equipped with all the amenities you can expect from an Hotel, nor we pretend to be as an Hotel, we are an holiday house with some very original characteristics. Let me also say, more than original, I would say, unique. You can relax under the shadow of a centenary Watchtower which was built even before Christopher Columbus had discovered the Americas, but definitively you will not stay in a 5 stars Hotel. Our reviews have a 5 stars average rate but we are not a 5 stars hotel!!!
To make a long story short, we are for many, but not for all!
If this fits with your expectations, please continue reading the description of the property! We would love to have you staying with us!
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The site is quiet and romantic, with the infinity swimming pool equipped with water jets and a large green relax area with sun beds and from the terrace a remarkable panoramic views towards the peninsula of Portofino and Sestri Levante, then towards the Val d'Aveto and Val di Vara, and on a clear day, looking towards the South, you can see the profile of Corsica's mountains.
Make yourself comfortable in this air-conditioned villa, which features a fireplace and a private pool. There's a private balcony. A kitchen is outfitted with a refrigerator, an oven, and a stovetop. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and a Smart television is provided for your entertainment.
Take advantage of recreational opportunities offered, including an outdoor pool, a spa tub, and a fitness center.
Guests will find features like internet access and onsite parking.

Property manager

Alberto

Languages

English, French, Italian

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach towels
  • Beach sunloungers

Pool/Spa

  • Private pool
  • Outdoor pool
  • A hot tub

Internet

  • Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • On-site parking
  • Car recommended

Kitchen

  • Fridge
  • Stovetop
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Dishwasher
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware/dishes/utensils
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 5 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets provided

Bathrooms

  • 3 bathrooms
  • Bath or shower
  • Hairdryer
  • Bidet
  • Toilet paper
  • Soap
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Smart TV
  • Stereo

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Fenced garden
  • Barbecue
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Firepit

Laundry

  • Washing machine
  • Near a laundromat

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Designated smoking areas
  • Note from host: allowed in some areas only, contact us for details

Services and conveniences

  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • Near the sea
  • In a rural location
  • Near a hospital
  • Near the bay

Things to do

  • Fitness centre
  • Fitness facilities nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Surfing/body boarding nearby
  • Winery tours nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Ice skating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher
  • First aid kit
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Unit size: 4844 sq ft (450 sq m)

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 30

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
Note from host: babies and kids are welcome!

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts cash
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site; maximum attendees: 10
Note from host: extra costs for people more than the guests number
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Property Registration Number CIN: IT010029C2AW53U73U

We should mention

All guests, including children, must be present at check-in and show their government-issued photo ID card or passport
Cash transactions at this property cannot exceed EUR 5000, due to national regulations; for further details, please contact the property using information in the booking confirmation
A car is recommended for transportation to and from this property

15th century castle, between Cinque Terre and Portofino, private pool, sea view Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 62 out of 70 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 70 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 70 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 70 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 70 reviews" "

9.8/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Mary S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Castle above Chiavari
Beautiful spot to stay and explore that part of Italy. Winding road to get there but worth it. Very comfortable furniture throughout and well maintained. We didn’t cook meals, but the kitchen was well stocked. Just telling friends that you stayed in a castle built in the 1400’s is worth it.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Shawna B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely !
Beautiful castle and views, Silvia the host was so helpful!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Doreen G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing Castle
Huge property with historical details. Beautiful pool with scenic views that can’t be beat. Hosts were very accommodating. The inside air was stale from not being aired out. Other than that it was a wonderful experience.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Janet O., Leawood

Liked: Cleanliness
A Special Place
We loved this property. The home is full of antiques but is very comfortable. We did need a car to get to the home. Sylvie recommended the restaurant, Peppen and it was the best place we have eaten in a long time. The owner was gracious and fed us way too much wonderful food. Stay a whole week to enjoy this property and the towns near by. Thanks to Alberto for sharing this home.
Stayed 1 night in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ahad S.

Liked: Cleanliness
A wonderful and unique experience!
My wife and I came here on our honeymoon and we were blown away! It is truly a unique experience to stay in a medieval castle, but even more stunning was the location of the property - nestled in a quiet town in the Italian countryside. The hosts were great and very accommodating, and we had an incredible stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

8/10 Good

Garry F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Location and Area
The property was as advertised in its quality, room and features. The "tavern" is two levels and large leading out to the pool area. This is in my opinion the gathering area during our stay and it can host a larger number of people. The property value is enhanced by this entertainment area. Not a walkable location if that is important which it is to me. Need to drive everywhere .Quiet at night but during the days neighbouring dogs and immediate church bells are very evident. Good location for a larger family gathering.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

8/10 Good

Peter C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Host
Alberto and Silvia were excellent hosts. They addressed all questions and concerns promptly. They communicated throughout our visit. You will not find better hosts on VRBO
Stayed 5 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Barbara H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Unique property
We attended a wedding in Tuscany and had decided to extend our visit and continue to vacation with our immediate family members. We selected the historic castle which is in an area northwest of where the wedding was and closer to the coast. How often does one have the opportunity to stay in a 500+ year old castle? Well, if you have a chance, we would highly recommend it. The property is a drive up a winding road into the hills, but once you arrive, you are in heaven. The view is spectacular, the surroundings are peaceful (only interrupted by some charming church bells) and serene, especially at night for stargazing. The castle itself, is very comfortable and the infinity pool is amazing. Silvia, the property manager, was extremely helpful and always available. There are a lot of stairs which might pose a problem for some, but no one in our party complained. Plus, we were blessed with some beautiful weather. We made some beautiful memories at the Castle Mereta.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mark L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Just like the pictures
We injoyed our stay greatly. A little tricky to find in the dark but we got it. Amazing views, rooms were very nice. The weather was perfect so we really used the pool. House manager went above and beyond helping us figure things out. I would say this place is for people that are mobile. Lots of stairs that we did not mind. LOVED IT
Stayed 10 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jill L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Magical Mereta
We had a truly wonderful week at the quirky and magical Mereta. Situated in a small and friendly village amongst olive groves, and with spectacular views down the valley to Chiavari and the sea, it is a great place to relax and unwind. All the rooms are huge, have amazing antique furniture (we were still spotting interesting items at the end of a week) and are very comfortable. The pool is an ideal place to cool down in the summer heat, and from which to watch the sun setting behind the mountains. There is an excellent local restaurant, a very convivial outdoor bar and coffee shop and a small general store in the village. It is quick to drive to Chiavari or a very reliable bus service runs from outside the gate. We really hope to return.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Colleen H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing, unique venue & wonderful location for the perfect Italian experience with our friends!
What a fantastic time we had at this very unique venue! Staying in a very historic Castle can be a bit intimidating, but with the guidance of the property owner and his property manager, Silvia , we found this the perfect place to meet up with our dear friends from Switzerland and back home in the U.S. And the ideal jumping off spot to explore Portofino, Santa Margharita and Rapallo to the north and Cinque Terre to the south. We cooked delicious meals together (making good use of the pizza oven), had refreshing swims in the pool with an amazing view and just enjoyed being in this beautiful place with our dear friends, with Italian sight-seeing being the added benefit to our stay. The accommodations were so comfortable for all of us and Silvia so accommodating with all of my questions. She even made us reservations at nearby Ristorante Pepen, which is a must for your stay! as We were treated so well by them, with course after course of the tastiest food, impeccable service and a lovely view from our outdoor table for 10! The food, the wine, the delicious and time-intensively prepared cake, just for us, make me wish we lived nearby for a repeat dinner whenever we wanted! That was an evening to remember, as was our stay at Castle Mereta! Forever grateful for our time here and for the opportunity to stay in such a historic location! Thank you!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Dan C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing stay up in the hills of Chiavari
If you are looking for a getaway that is away from the city noise but still close enough where you can quickly go into town if you need something, this is the place for you. The castle is amazing and is exactly that. If you are looking for something modern, this is not for you. The pool and yard are amazing and I would say that is the most modern part, but the castle itself was built in the early 1500s and maintains that charm. Rooms are spacious and air-conditioned, and the kitchen is well stocked. If I had one recommendation, it would be to replace some of the mattresses, but I find that they are all the same across Italy/Europe. The family is commutative and if there are any issues or concerns they are a phone call or text away. The center of Chiavari is about 5km away, and you still have easy access to Portofino, Cinque Terre, or Genova by train or car. Keep in mind that you need to have a car to get there.
Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jean-Francois L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely stay in Leivi.
Great stay. Excellent customer support. Sylvia and Alberto were very responsive and caring. Very spacious and lovely pool. I suggest you having a car as the villa is 10 minutes (by car) up in the beautiful mountains. Unique experience in a 1400 castle.
Stayed 9 nights in Jun 2022

8/10 Good

Karen S., Milwaukee

Liked: Cleanliness
very unique
This was such a unique place to stay and as much as the place was very cool and unique what really made it fantastic was our hosts Alberto and Silvia. They went out of their way numerous times to help us and could not have been kinder when we found ourselves in a bit of jam with transporation issues . When they urge you to get a car its no joke this place is wonderfully remote but you really do need a car. We did not have one and that was our mistake but truly Alberto and Silvia are superstars at hosting and we are so grateful for their help.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Hunter H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing Castle Stay!!
Amazing weekend get away! Pictures do not do the property justice. Alberto and Silvia were excellent hosts and very attentive to any needs. My only regret is not having spent more time there!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Bret B., Crown Point, IN USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Getting to stay in a Castle!!! Amazing!
We had a wonderful time staying at the castle. We would have loved to be able to climb the tower, but, alas, it is closed due to structural concerns (not a surprise as it was built over 6 centuries ago). The location is ideal to travel to the Cinque Terre and all of the towns and cities of the west coast of Italy. We stayed for only two nights and wish it were more, but our travel schedule only allowed for this short time. We had great days at the Cinque Terre and Portofino and the castle's location made travel to both a breeze. We used the train to go to the Cinque Terre and drove to Portofino. We spent the evenings enjoying the pool, multiple patios, the views from high on the hill and especially enjoyed the fog rolling in over the hill and enveloping us and all of the hill all the way to the valley. It was awe inspiring. The castle is not for the person who can't do steps, but we loved every step in the place. Our hosts were great and made our stay a real pleasure. Overall, I would say go to the Castle and stay a while. It will be worth your time and effort. Thanks to Alberto and Silvia for all of your help in making our stay in the Castle a time to remember.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Patty O., Seattle, WA

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing stay at a unique property in the hills.
We just loved our stay at Castle Mereta. Our hosts were helpful and very responsive. The house itself is so fun! So many places to hang out. Beautiful views of the hillside and the sea. We made a few great feasts in the well-stocked kitchen. From the castle we enjoyed a day trip to Portofino and the surrounding towns, and another to Cinque Terra by train. We mostly loved spending time around home. After two weeks of traveling through the more touristy side of Italy we really enjoyed making trips into Chiavari to get a glimpse of the local life. We found a little farmers market in the square in the mornings, a butcher and bakeries as well. We also made several visits to Defilla in Chiavari for gelato and apperitivos. Angelica made a reservation for us at Pepen, which we loved, definitely go there and bring your appetite (just know that is a fish-forward meal)! As others have mentioned, its up a windy road and has a number of floors so lots of stairs, but well worth it, you don’t get views like that without some height :). Book a stay at Mereta for a vacation you will never forget!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

d r.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great stay
The property is spectacular. The setting high above the ocean provides great views of the water and coastline. Angelica is the property manager and was delightful. She also produces great olive oil. She was helpful with advice, restaurant assistance and helped us find an Italian cooking experience with Valentina. Valentina was also great and highly recommended. There are many stairs as outlined by others. They are safe and well maintained. The castle is a wonderful experience mixing the past, privacy and easy road access to the town below. Thanks Angelica and Alberto.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Stacy H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Slept in a museum!
We just loved staying in Castello del Mereta! Our host Angelica was very accessible and answered all our questions promptly. There are 5 floors of stairs to navigate, so would not recommend for guests that have challenges with stairs. We made sure to sit in all the salons and soak up the history and 1920's decor. The special accordian concert in the garden was a treat. The views amazing. The nearby Pepen Restaurant has an antipasti experience that is not to be missed. Ask Angelica to make reservations. Thanks so much!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2019

10/10 Excellent

Cary D., Spokane Valley, Washington

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful property really lived up to its advertisement!
The owner's representative (Angelica) was very accommodating and helpful in the check-in process and gave us excellent suggestions for food and sites to visit in the vicinity. We especially appreciated hearing about Pizzaria Momma, which has excellent food. My wife and I had our three kids (two young adult, one 13) with us for a family vacation and 30th anniv This is advertised as a castle, and it certainly is. The property is comprised of three buildings, including the house, the old barn built in 1448, and the tower built in 1478. The tower is not currently accessible due to safety concerns inside, but is an iconic part of the property. The grounds are wonderful, with multiple areas to sit and enjoy the sun. There are many small lizards around, which my kids greatly enjoyed. Off-street gated parking was secure and handy. It is located up a winding road about 5 km (3 miles) from Chiavari, and about 2 miles as the crow flies to the Med. The main deck of the fourth level (where the bedrooms and bathrooms are located) is fabulous. The view down to the sea is awesome, particularly in the early evening as the sun is setting in the hills behind you. We enjoyed several meals there in the evening, including some amazing local pesto on fresh pasta. The house does not have air conditioning, but has multiple windows with good cross circulation. The owners have thoughtfully screened most of the windows so they can be left open at night to cool the castle. The windows have bars for security as well. The bottom level is the kitchen, which has been updated nicely, and is very functional. The kitchen includes remnants of old equipment, including a large old grape press, and an apparently functional traditional pizza oven. We wished we had taken the opportunity to use it. The next level is the private tavern, which seats in excess of 40, with beautiful flagstones for a floor (as does the kitchen). The main floor is comfortable and useable. As mentioned, the fourth level is the bedrooms, and fifth level is another bedroom with bathroom. The entire house is furnished with really nice old furniture and museum quality antique decorations and art. We were looking for a memorable place to stay for our Italian vacation, and this castle/house made our vacation one our kids will remember for their lifetime. It was a great jumping off point for many sites north and south to visit. We recommend Mereta very, very highly.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2019

8/10 Good

Karen T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful property with magnificent views
The castle certainly provided the wow factor when you first walked through the door. There was ample room for 4 couples and an ideal place to celebrate our anniversary. Such beautiful surroundings and very well equipped. Used the pizza oven one day and made some delicious pizzas, it was such fun. Had a beautiful meal cooked for us to help celebrate our anniversary, it was a truly memorable time.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

jenelle j.

Liked: Cleanliness
A fabulous memory
The setting could not have been more beautiful. My family and I especially enjoyed the terrace and garden. Angelica took care of our every need and the cooking class and meal with Valentina was so special. In spite of the unusual heat, we were very comfortable with fans and large windows offering delicious breezes. Even the gardner was especially friendly and helpful. It was a memorable time with family in a very special place.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2019

8/10 Good

Chelsie P.

Liked: Cleanliness
An amazing but hot experience!
This property is an experience! The host a Angelica is a wonderful woman who was so welcoming and helpful. They house is old and awesome. It was so cool to stay in a castle. The only complaint, which isn’t really the property’s fault, is it was miserably hot. End of June 80 degree heat was awful in this house with no AC. Fans barely helped at all and the breeze was so minimal it didn’t cool it down much at all. I would have loved to stay here in a cooler month.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2019

8/10 Good

Thomas W.

wonderful stay
beautiful property, views were incredible - lacked comfortable outdoor furniture to relax on the upper walk out deck
Stayed 7 nights in May 2019

10/10 Excellent

Melinda B.

Mereta Castle is more than a place to stay. It's an experience.
This is a location to tell your friends about. Mereta dates back to the 1400's and houses a vast array of antiquities, a cozy kitchen, lovely bedrooms, and a location that most people only dream about. Set high above the town and port of Chiavari, the view of the Ligurian Sea is nothing short of spectacular. There is easy access to the towns of the Cinque Terre by train from Chiavari and a short drive to Portofino and other locations on the Italian riviera. Anjelica is a lovely host, who checked in with us almost daily to make sure we had everything we needed. There are restaurants nearby that create delicious local meals. Our family of 5 had a memorable week and very much enjoyed hearing the bells from the nearby church. Bellissimo! PS They even flew the American flag from the castle tower, which made us feel very much at home.
Stayed 8 nights in Apr 2019